Variable-Width Light Pipe Illumination With Segmented Diffusion Sheets
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing light pipe assemblies lack the ability to dynamically vary the width of illumination, limiting their adaptability and aesthetic appeal.
Innovation Solution
A light pipe apparatus comprising at least two clear diffusion sheets, a mask with a slot, and a light pipe, where each diffusion sheet is edge-lit by an array of light sources, allowing individual control of light sources to alter the width of illumination by varying the distance from the mask, and a control system to manage light source activation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a light pipe assembly uses a fixed illumination width design, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the adaptability and aesthetic flexibility are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The light pipe assembly is segmented into multiple clear diffusion sheets (first, second, third sheets) positioned at different distances from the mask, allowing independent control of light sources for each sheet. This segmentation enables different illumination widths to be achieved by activating specific light sources, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and complexity by dividing the system into controllable modules.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a fixed illumination width design to a dynamic one where the illumination width can be changed by adjusting which light sources are active. The control system enables dynamic switching between different illumination patterns (first, second, and third illumination patterns) by activating different combinations of light sources, allowing the light pipe to adapt its appearance based on operational requirements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple light sources are used at different distances from the mask, then the illumination width can be varied, but the device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
Different regions of the light pipe assembly (different diffusion sheets at different distances from the mask) are assigned different functions corresponding to different illumination widths. The first diffusion sheet produces a first illumination pattern, the second produces a second pattern, and the third produces a third pattern. This local quality differentiation allows the system to achieve variable illumination widths while maintaining a structured approach to manufacturing.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the illumination width is fixed, then the manufacturing precision requirements are lower, but the aesthetic appeal and customization options are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The diffusion sheets are pre-positioned at specific distances from the mask during manufacturing (first distance, second distance, third distance) to create the capability for variable illumination widths. This preliminary positioning action during manufacturing enables the later dynamic control of illumination width without requiring high precision adjustments during operation, balancing manufacturing feasibility with operational flexibility.
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
Enables dynamic adjustment of light pipe illumination width, enhancing aesthetic flexibility and adaptability by allowing customizable lighting effects and patterns.
Implementation Method 1
at least two light sources, where each light source is configured to illuminate a respective one of the at least two clear diffusion sheets via the edge such that light is emitted from the façade
Implementation Method 2
at least two clear diffusion sheets aligned adjacent each other, wherein each clear diffusion sheet includes an edge and a façade
Implementation Method 3
a mask disposed adjacent a first sheet of the at least two clear diffusion sheets, wherein the mask includes a slot aligned with a façade of the first sheet such that lighted emitted from the façade passes through the slot
Implementation Method 4
a light pipe aligned with the slot such that light passing through the slot illuminates at least a portion of the light pipe
Data Source
AI summary
A lit light pipe apparatus comprises several elements: at least two light sources, at least two clear diffusion sheets, a mask, and a light pipe. An edge of each of the clear diffusion sheets is aligned with one of the arrays of light sources to provide independent edge lighting of each diffusion sheet. Each clear diffusion sheet emits a homogeneous light through its façade. The mask is aligned with the façades of the clear diffusion sheets and positioned between the sheets and the light pipe. The mask features a clear slot area through which the altered light shines when illuminated. A light source associated with a specific clear diffusion sheet may be activated while the remaining light sources are deactivated. An apparent width of the resultant light pipe illumination will vary depending on the distance from the specific clear diffusion sheet and the mask.