Translucent Hardscape Lighting Element with Integrated Dispersion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hardscape lighting solutions require significant modification of discrete elements and are not integral to the structure, making them cumbersome to install and maintain.
Innovation Solution
A lighting element with a body structure made of clear or translucent material, featuring a light fixture positioned within an internal channel, allowing light to be dispersed through the material, and designed to integrate seamlessly with hardscape structures, using a configuration such as an I-beam cross-section to facilitate placement between hardscape elements, with optional covers for color and texture modification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If stand-alone lamps are mounted adjacent to hardscaping, then lighting function is achieved, but significant modification of discrete elements is required
Solution Approach 1:
The lighting element is merged directly into the hardscape structure by positioning it between discrete hardscape elements. The body structure integrates with the hardscape blocks, eliminating the need for separate mounting hardware and electrical boxes, thereby reducing installation complexity while maintaining lighting functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The lighting element is designed as a discrete, modular unit that can be independently positioned between hardscape blocks. This segmentation allows the lighting component to be installed without modifying the surrounding hardscape elements, reducing overall system complexity while achieving the lighting function
2Ease of operation
If lighting elements are made integral to hardscape, then installation simplicity is improved, but protection from environment becomes challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The light fixture is nested within the body structure, which is then positioned between hardscape blocks. This nested arrangement provides natural protection from environmental factors while maintaining ease of installation, as the lighting element is already positioned and protected when installed between the blocks
Solution Approach 2:
The body structure acts as a protective shell enclosing the light fixture. This shell provides environmental protection while allowing the lighting element to remain integrated with the hardscape, balancing protection requirements with installation simplicity
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
The solution provides a visually appealing, easy-to-install, and maintainable lighting system that is integral to the hardscape, offering uniform lighting effects while being protected from the environment and allowing for easy adjustment and repair.
Implementation Method 1
a body structure defining a dispersion surface from which the light is dispersed to the environment outside the lighting element and which comprises a material through which light can pass
Data Source
AI summary
A lighting element for an illuminated hardscape. The lighting element includes a body structure defining a dispersion surface. A light fixture is positioned within the body structure and is configured to provide a light which is dispersed through the body structure to the dispersion surface. The body structure is formed from a clear or translucent material. An illuminated hardscaping is also provided.