Self-supporting core structure with shape memory
A self-supporting cable core structure with a metallic and polyethylene layer combination addresses the need for stable, flexible lamp bases by providing shape-memory properties, enabling stable configurations without external supports, suitable for decorative and functional uses.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- FR2023013254
- Authority / Receiving Office
- FR · FR
- Patent Type
- Patents
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2023-11-29
- Publication Date
- 2026-02-20
- Estimated Expiration
- 2043-11-29
AI Technical Summary
Existing flexible lamp structures, such as gooseneck lamps and flexible rods, require additional supports or frames for stability, which are often oversized, heavy, and inflexible, making them unsightly and limiting their size and application.
A self-supporting cable core structure composed of a metallic layer surrounded by cross-linked polyethylene layers, optionally with a lead core and textile braiding, providing shape-memory properties and allowing the structure to maintain a fixed position without external support.
The structure is lightweight, semi-rigid, and can support itself over distances up to 1-3 meters, enabling flexible and stable configurations without additional supports, suitable for decorative and functional applications like floor lamps, wall sconces, cable conduits, and piping.
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Abstract
Description
Title of the invention: Self-supporting, shape-memory core structure. Technical field
[0001] The present disclosure relates to a self-supporting, shape-memory core structure.
[0002] Such a self-supporting structure is adaptable to a user's needs and can find decorative applications, particularly as a support for floor lamps or wall sconces. Thanks to its shape memory properties, it can also find more diverse applications, for example as a cable conduit or for piping. Previous technique
[0003] As an example of a possible application, luminaire bases are generally long-sloping structures, and classically use a rigid frame maintaining their shape, and a support base, weighting the lower part of the luminaire base and giving it sufficient stability.
[0004] In the case of flexible and deformable lamp bases, the use of gooseneck lamps is particularly well known. These lamps have a flexible and adjustable stem, typically made of a spring with metal inserts between each loop of the spring, giving it shape memory properties and allowing a user to direct the light as desired, without moving the lamp. However, gooseneck lamps are small, only a few tens of centimeters long, as the stem cannot maintain a fixed position due to excessive weight and dimensions. They also require a support that is large relative to the stem's size to be stable on a surface.
[0005] Other types of flexible rods are also known, for example corrugated plastic tubes, and / or covered with shape memory fabric, but these devices are also not entirely satisfactory, because they are too flexible to use rods of larger sizes, of a few meters.
[0006] Furthermore, in the current state of the art, flexible stem devices are not self-supporting; they require the combined use of a rigid frame, or, as in the case of gooseneck lamps, a base or support to ensure their stability. These supports are generally oversized, heavy, making the whole assembly unsightly, and have a substantial and inflexible footprint, regardless of the device's shape. Summary
[0007] This disclosure improves the situation.
[0008] A cable core structure (referred to as "1" in [Fig. 3], discussed in more detail below) is proposed, which is self-supporting and comprises deformable materials cooperating with each other to impart shape-memory properties to the structure. In particular, these materials comprise a metallic layer (reference 2 in [Fig. 3]), surrounded by two layers of cross-linked polyethylene (reference 3 in [Fig. 3]), respectively inside and outside the metallic layer (2).
[0009] It will then be understood that the cooperation between the metallic layer and the cross-linked polyethylene layers makes it possible to give the structure a self-supporting character, with a shape memory when a user applies a chosen twist to the structure.
[0010] It is then possible to give the self-supporting structure a desired shape, in order to adapt it, for example, as an interior decorative floor lamp. In other applications where the cable core needs to be bent, for example, to adapt to an angle configuration between the walls of a building, a user simply needs to apply the desired shape (without requiring a bending tool) to facilitate cable installation.
[0011] In one embodiment, the metallic layer (2) is an aluminum layer, arranged between the two cross-linked polyethylene layers (3).
[0012] The choice of aluminum metal for the central layer (2) gives the structure the advantage of being lightweight while being semi-rigid.
[0013] Thus, in such an embodiment, particularly when the metallic layer is an aluminum layer, the structure can be self-supporting over a distance upwards for example (from a support on a lower part of the structure) which can typically be up to 1 to 3 m, for usual cable core diameters (typically a few centimeters).
[0014] Indeed, the structure can be in longline form and have a diameter between 15 and 35 mm for a length between 1 and 3 m of a free self-supporting part of the structure when it is placed, in service, on a support (such as a horizontal surface for example, like the ground, a table, or other).
[0015] In one embodiment, the structure further comprises a textile braid (reference 5 of [Fig.3]) surrounding the outer layer of cross-linked polyethylene (reference 3).
[0016] Advantageously, according to the tests carried out, such a braiding around the core (or "overbraiding") allows the structure to gain in load-bearing capacity, and typically to go from a vertical structure of 1 meter likely to bend, without overbraiding, to a vertical structure of 1.2 meters without bending, with overbraiding (for the same dimensions of aluminum layer and polyethylene layers, of course).
[0017] For example, the textile braiding (5) can be made in an acrylic-based material.
[0018] The textile braiding (5) can typically comprise between 10 and 20 strands (for example 15 strands).
[0019] In one embodiment, the structure may further comprise a lead core (4) disposed inside the inner layer of cross-linked polyethylene (3), in at least a part of the structure (1).
[0020] For example, the lead core (4) can be disposed in a lower part (11) of the self-supporting structure (1), said lower part (11) being intended, in service, to be rolled up to rest on a support (for example the ground, or a table, or other, while a complementary part of the structure is intended to extend upwards for example).
[0021] The lead core (4) may have an outside diameter which is less than an inside diameter of the inner cross-linked polyethylene layer (3), to mount the lead core (4) by sliding inside the inner cross-linked polyethylene layer (3).
[0022] With such a structure having the lead core, a user can always twist the lower part of the structure (using his hands and without a tool) and give this lower part (reference 11 of [Fig.la]) a seat shape for a complementary, upper part of the structure (reference 10 of [Fig.la]), which is then self-supporting (as illustrated in [Fig.la] and [Fig.lb] for example).
[0023] For example, a difference in diameters between the inner diameter of the inner cross-linked polyethylene layer (3) and the outer diameter of the lead core (4) can be in a range between 2 and 10 mm (for example 5 mm).
[0024] In one embodiment, the structure may further comprise an adhesive layer (reference 6 of [Fig.3]) between the metallic layer (2) and each cross-linked polyethylene layer (3).
[0025] For example, these adhesive layers (6) can be made of polyurethane.
[0026] These adhesive layers can also contribute to the self-supporting structure in order to stiffen the collaboration between the metal layer and the cross-linked polyethylene layers.
[0027] In one embodiment, the structure further comprises a metal ring (reference 12 of [Fig.3]), at least at one end of the structure (1), the metal ring (12) being threaded for fixing.
[0028] In an example of an embodiment where the structure is intended for a lighting application, the metal ring (12) can then be threaded for fixing a socket suitable for receiving a bulb base (reference L of the drawings commented in detail below).
[0029] The structure as described herein finds advantageous application, particularly for any decorative object, such as a light fixture or other item. Brief description of the drawings
[0030] Other features, details and advantages will become apparent upon reading the detailed description below and analyzing the accompanying drawings, in which: Fig. the
[0031] [Fig.la] shows an embodiment of a self-supporting core structure for a luminaire placed on a floor. Fig. 1b
[0032] [Fig. 1b] shows a faithful representation of the core structure according to [Fig. 1a], taken from a low angle. The core structure is resting on the ground and extends in a spiral. Fig. 2a
[0033] [Fig. 2a] shows a second embodiment of the self-supporting core structure for a wall light. The core structure here comprises the self-supporting part, fixed to the wall. Fig. 2b
[0034] [Fig.2b] shows a faithful representation of the core structure according to [Fig.2a], taken from a low angle. The core structure is in a resting position, lying in a spiral on a horizontal surface. Fig. 3
[0035] [Fig. 3] shows an exploded view of the self-supporting core structure according to [Fig. 1a], comprising several layers of material, nested one inside the other, and giving the structure shape memory and self-supporting properties. Fig. 4
[0036] [Fig.4] presents several examples of applications A, B, C and D of the core structure. Description of the implementation methods
[0037] In figures 1a and 1b, the core structure 1 is used as a luminaire base, resting on the ground S. For this purpose, it comprises the lower part 11, extended and surmounted by the self-supporting part 10 equipped with the metal ring 12 on which a bulb is installed. An electrical supply 13 passes through the core structure 1 and provides an electric current to the bulb L.
[0038] The self-supporting portion 10 of the web structure 1 can be deformed at will, and it is thus possible to give it any rounded shape, without folds (at a curvature angle greater than 90°), for example with loops, knots, or to make it completely straight (not shown). In the example illustrated in [Fig. 1a], the web structure 1 extends upwards (away from the ground S) with a shape It is generally long and spiral-shaped with varying angles of curvature. Figure [Fig.lb] shows the low-angle view of the spiral-shaped core structure 1.
[0039] For the stability of the luminaire, the lower part 11 includes the removable lead core 4, which stiffens the core structure 1, serving as a counterweight and an invisible base (represented by the hatched section in [Fig. 1a]). The lower part 11 is installed on the floor S and coiled in a spiral in the examples of Figures 1a and 1b.
[0040] As with the self-supporting part 10, the lower part 11 can be installed and deformed according to the needs and desires of the user, and in such a way as to stabilize the core structure 1. It can for example be formed with variable angles of curvature, as in the example of [Fig.laa] (hatched section) or form knots, loops, or long lines, so as to run along walls, furniture, slide into gaps, or perpendicular to the self-supporting structure, etc. (not shown).
[0041] Furthermore, although in the preferred embodiment of the invention the lower part 11 of the core structure 1 is specifically configured to conceal the lead core 4 and to be long and uniform, it is entirely possible to design the structure with a support base and / or a rigid frame at the lower end of the core structure 1. In such a case, the lead core 4 is not necessary.
[0042] The power supply 13 for the bulb L is shown in [Fig. 1a] with a power cord for connection to the wall outlet, and in [Fig. 1b], the cord includes a foot switch. Alternatively, the power supply 13 may be provided without connection to the electrical outlet, for example with a battery or cells, concealed within a part of the core structure 1, and the switch may be located, for example, on an external part of the core structure 1. The core structure 1 may also be without a switch.
[0043] In another embodiment illustrated in Figures 2a and 2b, the core structure 1 is fixed to a wall S. In such a configuration, the removable lead core 4 is removed from the lower part 11, and only the self-supporting part 10 of the structure is used. The latter protrudes from a small wall base, which is screwed, glued, or held against the wall by any suitable means, for example, with screws and plugs.
[0044] In the example of [Fig. 2a], the core structure 1 is placed in a position with variable curvatures from end to end and perpendicular to the wall S. It can also be positioned, for example, parallel to the wall, along the wall, and in any shape, spiral, linear, with varying angles, knots, loops, etc. Alternatively, the luminaire can be a ceiling light (not shown), where the wall base is fixed to the ceiling, or installed and fixed on any surface S, inclined or not.
[0045] Furthermore, the wall base shown in Figures 2a and 2b is depicted with a circular shape and a reduced diameter. It can, of course, be designed in other shapes and dimensions, depending on the desired visual appearance. The wall base conceals the inlet for the power supply 13, which passes through the core structure 1 and is connected to the electrical installation in the wall (not shown). A switch for operating the light bulb L can also be installed on the wall base. Alternatively, the wall base can be replaced by any other mounting system, for example, one integrated inside the end of the tubular core structure 1 and fixed to the wall.
[0046] In the luminaire embodiments shown in Figures 1a, 1b, 2a and 2b, the general shape of the device is inspired by the elongated forms of flower stems, and therefore features an elongated core structure with the same diameter from end to end. Alternatively, the self-supporting part 10 and / or the lower part 11 can be designed with a larger diameter, or in a gradient, or with a different cross-section, for example square, depending on the desired visual appearance.
[0047] The material layers forming the core structure 1 are shown in the exploded view of [Fig. 3], with: - the metal layer 2, - the two cross-linked polyethylene (PER) layers 3, inner and outer, surrounding the metal layer 2, - the removable lead core 4 mounted inside the inner cross-linked polyethylene layer 3, - the acrylic textile braiding 5 surrounding the outer cross-linked polyethylene layer 3, - the 6 adhesive layers fixing the inner and outer layers of cross-linked polyethylene 3 to the metallic layer 2, - and the metal ring 12, located at one end of the core structure 1.
[0048] The shape memory properties of the core structure 1 are ensured by the metallic layer 2, for example aluminum, surrounded by the two cross-linked polyethylene layers 3, bonded together by the intermediate adhesive layers 6. The self-supporting property of the core structure 1 is ensured by the lead core 4, which is heavier than the aluminum and cross-linked polyethylene layers 3, thus providing ballast for at least part of the core structure 1 and stiffening the assembly to increase the long-term stability of the imposed position of the core structure 1. The inner cross-linked polyethylene layer 3 is also smooth to facilitate the insertion and removal of the lead core 4 within the core structure 1.
[0049] In the following paragraphs, reference is made to [Fig.4], which represents several examples of uses and applications A, B, C and D of the self-supporting core structure 1.
[0050] Example A shows the tubular core structure 1 used as a flexible cable tray for storing and concealing electrical cables, with minimal bulk and / or in a decorative manner. In the illustrated embodiment, the core structure 1 forms a bend and includes metal end caps. Such a shape-memory cable tray can be moved and installed along walls, furniture, in cavities, or in an aesthetically pleasing and decorative manner, blending into the environment, and without requiring any fixings.
[0051] Thanks to its tubular shape, the core structure 1 can also be used in plumbing, as shown in Example B, where it is used as a pipe to carry water to a sink, fixed to the wall by a conventional system of hose clamps. In particular, thanks to the internal coating of the inner layer of cross-linked polyethylene 3, the pipe is scale-resistant, corrosion-resistant, watertight, and compliant with sanitary water quality standards. The flexibility and shape-memory properties of the core structure 1 also allow it to be used and integrated aesthetically into any bathroom environment, and as in the applications shown above, it can easily be installed along walls and to connect furniture / appliances to domestic water inlets and outlets.
[0052] Similar to the piping, any similar application involving a pipe or tube can be considered. For example, the core structure 1 can replace a pneumatic hose for compressed air, or for air conditioning systems. Or, since the cross-linked polyethylene layers 3 and aluminum layers 2 have heat-resistant properties that limit leakage during heat transfer, and the acrylic braiding 5 is non-flammable, a plurality of structures 1 can be used as a network of hydraulic pipes in the floor for underfloor heating (these examples are not shown).
[0053] Furthermore, in [Fig. 4], two other examples of decorative applications of the core structure 1 are illustrated: Example C, which shows a set of parallel core structures 1 forming a decorative partition, and Example D, which illustrates a plurality of adjacent core structures forming a frame for shape-memory furniture, with an example of an armchair shown here. Other decorative uses of the core structure 1, not shown, can be mentioned, where the core structure 1 can, for example, be used as a deformable curtain rod, as a flexible and adaptable microphone support, as a stair railing, etc.
[0054] Ultimately, for all the applications presented or envisaged, the core structure 1 can be dimensioned with variable lengths, ranging from several centimeters to several meters, adapted to the desired use and appearance. It can also be connected to a plurality of other core structures 1 to form a complex and original architecture. It is then possible to design any decorative form from the connected core structures 1, of any size. For example, for a decorative lighting application, several small structures 1 can be connected to form a base, for example a tripod or equivalent. Similarly, several structures 1 can also be connected to create a set of self-supporting rods, on which bulbs and / or lampshades are installed, creating a light fixture that can be oriented as desired.Finally, the plurality of connected structures 1 can be multi-purpose, with, for example, a core structure 1 used for cable routing, connected to a second core structure 1 used for a light fixture. List of reference signs
[0055] - 1: soul structure, - 10: self-supporting section, - 11: lower part, - 12: metal ring, - 13: power supply, - 2: metal layer, - 3: cross-linked polyethylene layer, - 4: lead core, - 5: textile braiding, - 6: adhesive layer, - L: bulb, - S: support.
Claims
Demands
1. Self-supporting cable core structure (1) comprising deformable materials cooperating with each other so as to impart shape memory properties to the structure, wherein said materials comprise a metallic layer (2) surrounded by two layers of cross-linked polyethylene (3) respectively inside and outside the metallic layer (2), and further comprising a textile braiding (5) surrounding the outer layer of cross-linked polyethylene (3).
2. Structure (1) according to claim 1, wherein the metallic layer is an aluminum layer (2) between the two cross-linked polyethylene layers (3).
3. Structure (1) according to claim 2, comprising an elongated shape, of diameter between 15 and 35 mm for a length between 1 and 3 m of a free self-supporting part (10) of the structure (1) when it is arranged, in service, on a support (S).
4. Structure (1) according to claim 1, wherein the textile braiding (5) is made of an acrylic-based material.
5. Structure (1) according to any one of claims 1 and 4, wherein the textile braiding (5) comprises between 10 and 20 strands.
6. Structure (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a lead core (4) disposed inside the inner layer of crosslinked polyethylene (3), in at least a part of the structure (1).
7. Structure (1) according to claim 6, wherein the lead core (4) is disposed in a lower part (11) of the self-supporting structure (1), said lower part (11) being intended, in service, to be wound up to rest on a support (S).
8. Structure (1) according to any one of claims 6 and 7, wherein the lead core (4) has an outside diameter which is less than an inside diameter of the inner crosslinked polyethylene layer (3), for mounting the lead core (4) by sliding inside the inner crosslinked polyethylene layer (3).
9. Structure (1) according to claim 8, wherein a difference in diameters between the inner diameter of the inner crosslinked polyethylene layer (3) and the outer diameter of the lead core (4) is in a range between 2 and 10 mm.
10. Structure (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising an adhesive layer (6) between the metallic layer (2) and each crosslinked polyethylene layer (3).
11. Structure (1) according to claim 10, wherein the adhesive layer (6) is made of polyurethane.
12. Structure (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a metal ring (12), at least at one end of the structure (1), the metal ring (12) being threaded for fixing.
13. Structure (1) according to claim 12, intended for a luminaire application and in which the metal ring (12) is threaded for fixing a socket suitable for receiving a bulb base (L).