Variable-Width Light Pipe Illumination with Segmented Edge Lighting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lighting assemblies with light pipes lack the ability to dynamically adjust the width of illumination, limiting their versatility 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 activation of each source to alter the width of illumination by varying the distance from the mask, and the mask's slot aligns with the diffusion sheets to control the light projection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single light source illuminates the light pipe, then the structure is simple, but the illumination width cannot be adjusted
Solution Approach 1:
The single light source is segmented into multiple independent light sources (first light source and second light source), each capable of independent control. This segmentation enables selective activation of individual light sources to achieve variable illumination widths while maintaining overall structural simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static single light source configuration to a dynamic multi-light-source configuration where individual sources can be selectively activated. This dynamic control allows the illumination width to be adjusted by activating different combinations of light sources
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple light sources are used to adjust illumination width, then the illumination versatility is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The illumination system is divided into discrete controllable segments (individual light sources positioned at different locations). Each segment can be independently activated to create different illumination patterns and widths, providing versatility without requiring complex continuous adjustment mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple light sources serve multiple functions: they can be activated individually for narrow illumination, combined for wide illumination, or used in various combinations to create different lighting effects. This multi-functionality achieves illumination width adjustment without requiring separate mechanisms for each width setting
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, providing customizable and aesthetically versatile lighting effects by altering the apparent width of the illuminated area.
Implementation Method 1
each clear diffusion sheet includes an edge and a façade; 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
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 3
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
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AI summary
A lit light pipe apparatus (100) comprises several elements: at least two light sources (105), at least two clear diffusion sheets (110-x), a mask (115), and a light pipe (120). An edge (305, 310) 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.