Adjustable Suspension Assembly for LED Lighting Modules

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing lighting systems for box signs face challenges in quickly and reliably installing LED lighting modules at multiple depths with uniform spacing, as traditional methods using bars and rails result in uneven spacing and loose connections.

Innovation Solution

A suspension assembly that adjusts the longitudinal distance between LED lighting modules, comprising a first and second section mechanically connected to attach and fasten adjacent modules, allowing for easy spacing adjustment and stabilization.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If bars and rails are used to support LED lighting modules, then the structure is simple, but the spacing among modules becomes uneven and non-repeatable

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructure simplicityVSAvoidspacing uniformity
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The suspension assembly is divided into multiple sections (first section and second section) that can be independently adjusted. Each section has positioning features that engage with corresponding features on adjacent modules, allowing precise control of spacing between modules while maintaining overall structural simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The suspension assembly incorporates adjustable mechanisms that allow the longitudinal distance between modules to be modified after installation. This dynamic adjustment capability enables precise spacing control without requiring complex pre-engineered support structures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Productivity

If clamps or ties are used to hold the string of modules, then installation is quick, but the connections become loose and spacing becomes uneven

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation speedVSAvoidconnection stability
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The suspension assembly uses discrete sections with individual attachment points for each module. This segmentation allows each connection to be independently secured with reliable mechanical fastening features, preventing loosening while maintaining quick installation through modular assembly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The suspension assembly acts as an intermediary component between adjacent modules, providing a stable mechanical connection that distributes loads evenly. The mechanical connection features (such as engagement protrusions and recesses) ensure reliable attachment without the loosening issues of simple clamps or ties.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Ease of manufacture

If prepopulated strings are hung from top and bottom supports, then installation is simplified, but spacing adjustment among modules is difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation simplicityVSAvoidspacing adjustability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The suspension assembly incorporates adjustable mechanisms that allow the longitudinal distance between modules to be modified after installation. The mechanical connection features enable easy repositioning and adjustment of spacing while maintaining a simple hanging installation process from top and bottom supports.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The suspension assembly serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, enables quick installation, allows spacing adjustment, and ensures reliable connections. This multi-functionality is achieved through integrated design elements that combine support structures with adjustable positioning mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS10527266B2Lighting system
Publication Date: 2020.01.07 GE LIGHTING SOLUTIONS LLC
  • US10527266B2 patent drawing
  • US10527266B2 patent drawing
  • US10527266B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure is directed to a lighting system, the lighting system comprising at least two lighting modules. Each lighting modules includes a plurality of light emitting elements which are electrically coupled to one another. The lighting system further comprises a suspension assembly which is configured for longitudinally attaching to the at least two lighting modules to be arranged as two lighting modules adjacent to each other. The suspension assembly includes a first section configured for attaching to one of the two adjacent lighting modules, and a second section configured for attaching to the other one of the two adjacent lighting modules. The first section and the second section are mechanically connected for adjusting the longitudinal distance between the two adjacent lighting modules.