Asymmetric Heat Sink Lighting Module for MR16 Trim

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Solution Overview

Problem

There is a need for an integrated lighting module with a heat sink module that has an upper finned portion and a bottom non-finned portion, where the upper portion has a larger diameter, to enhance heat dissipation and lumens output, while being compatible with specific trim sizes like MR16, and allowing for adjustments without interfering with the trim.

Innovation Solution

The integrated lighting module comprises a driver cap, a finned heat sink module with a larger upper diameter and a non-finned bottom portion, an LED light chip, and a holder with a twist-lock mechanism, allowing for adjustable installation without interfering with the trim, and includes an optical reflector for improved light distribution.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Temperature

If the heat sink module uses a uniform diameter design, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the heat dissipation efficiency is limited and lumens output is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveheat dissipation efficiencyVSAvoidheat sink structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
TemperatureVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The heat sink module employs an asymmetric diameter design where the upper portion has a larger diameter than the lower portion. This asymmetric geometry increases the surface area available for heat dissipation in the upper finned portion, thereby improving thermal management efficiency without requiring a complete redesign of the entire structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

Solution Approach 2:

The heat sink features localized fin structures concentrated in the upper portion with larger diameter, while the lower portion maintains a smaller diameter without fins. This local quality differentiation optimizes heat dissipation where it is most needed (upper portion near LED components) while keeping the overall structure manageable and compatible with standard trim sizes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Productivity

If the upper finned portion has a larger diameter, then heat dissipation and lumens output increase, but compatibility with standard trim sizes like MR16 is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelumens outputVSAvoidtrim compatibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The heat sink module is segmented into two distinct portions: an upper finned portion with larger diameter for heat dissipation and lumens output, and a lower non-finned portion with smaller diameter for trim compatibility. This segmentation allows each portion to be optimized for its specific function while working together as an integrated whole.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The solution resolves the diameter conflict by transitioning to a dimensional approach where the heat sink varies its diameter along its height rather than maintaining a uniform diameter. The upper portion expands to a larger diameter for thermal performance, while the lower portion tapers to a smaller diameter that fits standard MR16 trim specifications.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Ease of operation

If the lighting module is fixed in position, then installation is simple, but adjustment capability is limited and may interfere with trim

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveadjustabilityVSAvoidinstallation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The holder incorporates a twist-lock mechanism that enables the lighting module to be dynamically adjusted to different positions and then securely locked. This dynamic capability allows installers to optimize the lighting angle and position without requiring complex mounting hardware or interfering with the trim structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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

This configuration provides increased heat dissipation efficiency, higher lumens output, and allows for adjustments without interfering with the trim, enhancing the performance and versatility of the lighting module.

Implementation Method 1

the heat sink module may have an upper portion that is finned and a bottom portion that is non-finned, wherein a diameter of the upper finned portion may be larger than a diameter of the bottom non-finned portion... this will allow for increased heat dissipation efficiencies

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHeat dissipation: Heat Sink

Implementation Method 2

a LED light chip

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight emitting diode effect: Light Emitting Diode

Implementation Method 3

an optical reflector for improved light distribution

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight reflection: Reflection

Data Source

PatentUS11092326B2Integrated lighting module
Publication Date: 2021.08.17 ELCO LIGHTING INC
  • US11092326B2 patent drawing
  • US11092326B2 patent drawing
  • US11092326B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An integrated lighting module may have a driver cap, a heat sink module, a LED light chip, an optical reflector, and a holder. The driver cap may be configured to hold a driver within the driver cap to power the LED light chip. The driver cap may attach to a top of the heat sink module. The heat sink module may be finned at its upper portions, the heat sink module may have a larger diameter than a non-finned bottom portion. The holder may screw upon the bottom portion of the heat sink module with the optical reflector and the LED light chip disposed between the holder and the heat sink module. Trim, such as MR16 sized trim, a lamp, and/or a lens holder, may attach to bottom flanges of the holder. The integrated lighting module may be adjusted without interfering with the trim.