Apparatus for creating a simulated flame effect
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric fire designs with simulated flame effects lack realism and efficiency in creating a convincing visual representation of flames.
Innovation Solution
The use of a textured light-transmitting panel, such as glass with varying refractive index, combined with a light pattern projector and a capture screen, to create a distorted and dynamic flame effect image, enhanced by programmable LEDs and reflective elements for depth and realism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional simulated flame effect is provided behind fuel effect materials, then the apparatus structure is simple, but the realism and visual convincing quality of the flame effect is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
A textured light-transmitting panel is introduced as an intermediary element between the light pattern projector and the capture screen. This panel creates light distortions that simulate the irregular refraction patterns of real flames, significantly enhancing the realism of the flame effect without requiring complex mechanical or electronic systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes changes in the refractive index parameter of the textured panel to create varying light distortions. By selecting materials with specific refractive properties and creating textured surfaces with varying thickness or density, the system dynamically alters light transmission parameters to mimic the chaotic refraction patterns characteristic of real flames.
2Reliability
If a static flame effect image is used, then the device complexity is low, but the dynamic realism and visual engagement of the flame effect is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs a light pattern projector that generates dynamically changing light patterns rather than static images. Combined with the textured panel's light-bending properties, this creates a continuously evolving flame effect that mimics the natural movement and variability of real flames, enhancing dynamic realism.
Solution Approach 2:
The flame effect is created through periodic modulation of light patterns projected through the textured panel. The light patterns oscillate and vary in intensity and position in a periodic manner that simulates the natural flickering and movement of flames, providing dynamic realism without requiring complex mechanical animation systems.
3Reliability
If expensive adaptation methods are used to improve flame realism, then the realism of flame effect is enhanced, but the manufacturing cost and ease of manufacture deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive, complex flame simulation systems with a simple combination of an inexpensive textured acrylic or glass panel and a basic light pattern projector. The textured panel, which can be mass-produced through standard manufacturing processes, serves as a cost-effective optical element that delivers high realism without requiring expensive adaptive optics or complex mechanical systems.
Solution Approach 2:
By focusing on optimizing the refractive index and texture parameters of the panel material, the invention achieves high flame realism through material selection rather than complex system design. This approach allows for cost-effective manufacturing through standard material production processes while maintaining superior visual效果.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution significantly enhances the realism and depth of the simulated flame effect, providing a more convincing visual representation without the need for expensive adaptations, by manipulating light patterns and reflections through the textured panel.
Implementation Method 1
a textured light transmitting panel the refractive index of which repeatedly varies over the surface of the panel whereby the image received by the capture screen comprises varying distortions of the light projected by the light pattern projector
Implementation Method 2
the capture screen which receives light that has been transmitted through the textured panel is in the form of a reflective panel or mirror that serves to display the flame effect image when viewed from the same side of the capture screen as that side at which the textured panel is positioned
Data Source
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AI summary
Apparatus for creating a simulated flame effect and suitable for an electric fire comprises:- a capture screen (11) to receive light from a light pattern projector; a light pattern projector (14, 16) for projecting towards the capture screen a moving light pattern, and wherein there is provided between the light pattern projector and the capture screen a textured light transmitting panel (12) the refractive index of which repeatedly varies over the surface of the panel whereby the image received by the capture screen comprises varying distortions of the light projected by the light pattern projector.