Vending Machine LED Lighting with Reflective Surfaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vending machines using LEDs for lighting are not optimized to maximize effective illumination, resulting in inefficient product display and energy consumption.
Innovation Solution
A lighting system comprising a light source, such as a plurality of LEDs, and a reflective material within the vending machine's interior surfaces, which directs and reflects light to illuminate the product display area from multiple angles, enhancing visibility and energy efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If LEDs are used for lighting in vending machines, then energy consumption is reduced and lifetime is increased, but illumination effectiveness is not maximized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from single-direction lighting to multi-directional lighting by positioning LED light sources along the top, bottom, sides, and back of the product display area. This spatial distribution across multiple dimensions ensures comprehensive illumination coverage while maintaining LED energy efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces reflective surfaces as intermediaries to redirect and distribute light from LED sources throughout the product display area. These reflective surfaces act as mediators that amplify the limited LED output to achieve uniform illumination without increasing energy consumption.
2Illumination intensity
If multiple light sources are added to maximize illumination, then visibility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the lighting system into multiple independent LED modules positioned at different locations (top, bottom, sides, back). Each module operates independently but contributes to the overall illumination, allowing for modular installation and maintenance while achieving comprehensive coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses reflective surfaces that serve multiple functions: they redirect light to areas needing illumination, distribute light uniformly across the display area, and reduce the need for additional light sources. This multi-functionality simplifies the overall system design.
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 system provides improved visibility of products and reduces energy consumption by maximizing the use of LED lighting, ensuring more efficient and effective illumination within the vending machine.
Implementation Method 1
The reflective material extends along a second inner surface of the vending machine and is adapted to reflect light emitted from the light source towards the product display area
Data Source
AI summary
A lighting system for a vending machine is provided. The lighting system includes an LED light source extending along a first inner surface of the vending machine and a reflective surface extending along a second inner surface of the vending machine. The reflective surface is capable of reflecting light emitted by the light source in one direction in order to provide light to the interior of the vending machine from multiple directions.