Translucent Waveguide Shell for Illuminated Enclosed Spaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for illuminating enclosed spaces are not simple, cost-effective, or easy to manufacture, and lack additional functionality such as carrying information or displaying insignias, often relying on complex electronic circuitry and high energy consumption.
Innovation Solution
A self-contained illuminating device with a translucent shell acting as a waveguide, using a light source and scattering elements to propagate light internally and externally, combined with a position-sensitive switch for automatic activation, allowing for dual functionality of illuminating both the device and the enclosed space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If complex electronic circuitry and high energy consumption devices are used for illumination, then illumination effectiveness is improved, but device complexity and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the illumination function with the shell structure itself by making the shell translucent and using it as part of the light propagation system. The shell serves both as a protective enclosure and as a waveguide for light distribution, eliminating the need for separate complex illumination components and circuitry while maintaining effective illumination of the enclosed space.
Solution Approach 2:
The shell is designed to serve multiple functions: it acts as a protective enclosure, a waveguide for light propagation, and an advertising medium through insignias or markings. This multi-functionality reduces overall device complexity by consolidating multiple roles into a single component rather than requiring separate systems for each function.
2Ease of operation
If complex electronic circuitry is used for illumination, then illumination control is improved, but ease of manufacture deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The illumination system is designed to activate automatically through a simple position-sensitive switch that detects when the lid is opened, without requiring complex electronic control circuits. The system serves itself by using the mechanical position of the lid to trigger illumination, eliminating the need for sophisticated electronics while maintaining automatic operation capability.
3Illumination intensity
If high energy consumption light sources are used, then illumination intensity is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses scattering elements positioned at specific locations within the shell to distribute light efficiently. By concentrating scattering functionality at particular points rather than throughout the entire structure, the system achieves uniform illumination with minimal energy input, optimizing the balance between illumination intensity and energy consumption.
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 device provides efficient, low-energy illumination of both the shell and the enclosed space, effectively utilizing light energy while enabling the display of insignias or advertising materials, and can be easily manufactured and mounted on movable lids.
Implementation Method 1
a light source disposed for emitting light into the shell for propagating between the surfaces by internal reflection
Implementation Method 2
a light source disposed at the first end so that light emitted by the source propagates down the shell and towards the second end
Implementation Method 3
a scattering element disposed at the second end for receiving the light propagating towards the second end and scattering the received light into a spatial angle outside the shell near the second end of the shell
Data Source
AI summary
A self-contained illuminating device for mounting on or in a closed container for illuminating both the enclosed space of the container and an area of the device which has an insignia or graphic imposed thereon, e.g. for advertising purposes. The device has a shell made of a translucent material and a miniature light source. The shell is adapted to function as an optical waveguide for propagating light emitted by the light source down the shell while simultaneously illuminating surfaces of the shell bearing the advertisement. Additionally, the shell may include a light scattering element for distributing light at a periphery of the shell. The illuminating device comprises a circuitry, including a position-sensitive switch, e.g. a tilt switch, for activating the light source dependent on the position of the device.