Valance Lighting Assembly for Fuel Dispenser Illumination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Fuel stations have not evolved their lighting systems at the same pace as other commercial establishments, leading to outdated systems that produce uneven light distribution and unsightly fixtures, resulting in light pollution and safety concerns.
Innovation Solution
A valance lighting assembly is introduced, comprising a dispenser structure, a base with continuous illumination elements, and an outer shroud that creates a cavity for reflecting light, along with a riser assembly that provides omnidirectional lighting to ensure proper illumination and aesthetic appeal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If individual modular LEDs are used for lighting, then the lighting system can be installed on existing equipment, but the light distribution becomes uneven and attenuated
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple individual LED modules are merged into a single continuous illumination element that wraps around the dispenser structure. This combining approach maintains the installability benefit while eliminating the uneven light distribution caused by discrete modules, as the continuous element provides uniform illumination along its entire length.
Solution Approach 2:
The illumination element is configured to extend in multiple dimensions by wrapping around the dispenser structure in a predetermined contour. This dimensional approach allows the lighting to follow the contours of the equipment, providing even distribution across surfaces that would be difficult to illuminate uniformly with linear fixtures.
2Shape
If ornamental illumination fixtures are added to enhance branding, then visual appeal is improved, but the fixtures become excessively large and create light pollution
Solution Approach 1:
The illumination is applied locally to specific areas of the dispenser structure rather than using large omnidirectional fixtures. The continuous illumination element is positioned to provide targeted branding lighting on the front and side surfaces, creating visual appeal without excessive light spread that would cause pollution.
Solution Approach 2:
The illumination element uses a thin, flexible design that conforms to the dispenser structure's contours rather than requiring bulky fixture housings. This allows ornamental lighting to be integrated into the existing equipment profile without adding excessive size or creating unwanted light scatter.
3Illumination intensity
If lighting fixtures are made larger to provide adequate illumination, then light output is improved, but the fixtures become unsightly and disrupt the local environment
Solution Approach 1:
The continuous illumination element serves multiple functions: it provides adequate lighting output for safety and visibility, creates brand branding through contoured positioning, and maintains aesthetic appeal by conforming to the dispenser structure. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate large fixtures that would compromise appearance.
Solution Approach 2:
The illumination element is configured in a curved, contoured path that follows the dispenser structure's geometry. This curved design provides uniform light distribution across multiple surfaces while maintaining a sleek, integrated appearance that does not disrupt the local environment or equipment aesthetics.
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 valance and riser lighting assemblies provide improved light distribution and safety around fuel dispensers, while also enhancing the visual appeal of fuel stations, thus addressing the limitations of outdated lighting systems.
Implementation Method 1
the continuous illumination element is recessed within the cavity and utilizes the exterior face of the at least some of the one or more base panels to reflect light to the area proximate to the commercial equipment
Implementation Method 2
A light-emitting portion of the one or more riser illumination elements partially protrudes above a face of the riser stripe to omnidirectionally direct light to the area proximate the commercial equipment
Data Source
AI summary
A commercial lighting and lighting display fixture which may include an illumination source disposed in a fixture that may or may not enclose the illumination source element. The result is a display that is both ornamental and serves the function of providing a continuous illumination surrounding the equipment to which it is affixed, through a continuous lighting element disposed between a base and an outer shroud of a valance assembly. The commercial lighting and lighting display fixture may additionally include one or more riser illumination elements mounted to one or more riser panels of the equipment.