Bidirectional LED Fixture for Box Sign Retrofit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Replacing conventional fluorescent lights in box signs with LED lighting units is costly due to the need for multiple LEDs to illuminate both sides and requires modifications or replacement of existing fixtures and ballasts.
Innovation Solution
A lighting assembly for existing linear fluorescent fixtures that includes opposing LEDs on a support, a housing to cover them, and end caps for electrical connection, allowing direct integration and operation within existing fixtures without the need for extensive modifications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If multiple strings of LEDs facing in opposite directions are used to illuminate both front and rear panels, then illumination coverage is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies bidirectional emission from opposing LEDs mounted on opposite sides of a single support structure, utilizing spatial dimensionality to achieve omnidirectional illumination. This allows one lighting unit to illuminate both front and rear panels simultaneously, replacing what would traditionally require multiple unidirectional LED strings.
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing ballasts and fixtures are modified or replaced to accommodate LED lighting units, then compatibility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lighting assembly is designed with universal compatibility to work with existing fluorescent fixture infrastructure. The support structure with opposing LEDs can be installed in standard fixtures without requiring ballast modification or replacement, as the LEDs are configured to utilize existing electrical connections and mounting structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The lighting assembly includes integrated electrical connectors that directly interface with existing fixture wiring, allowing the unit to self-install without requiring external ballast components or complex electrical modifications. The design enables plug-and-play replacement of fluorescent lamps with LED equivalents.
3Illumination intensity
If a large number of LEDs are used to produce desired light output, then illumination intensity is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves high light output with fewer LEDs by utilizing bidirectional emission from opposing diodes mounted on opposite sides of the support. This spatial arrangement allows each LED to contribute to illumination in two directions simultaneously, effectively doubling the efficiency of each individual LED compared to unidirectional configurations.
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
Enables cost-effective replacement of fluorescent lights with LEDs by utilizing existing fixtures and reducing the number of LEDs required, while ensuring proper illumination of both sides of box signs.
Implementation Method 1
at least two opposing light emitting diodes (LEDs) on respective sides of the support configured to direct light in oppositely general directions
Data Source
AI summary
A lighting assembly for an existing linear fluorescent fixture includes a support, at least two opposing light emitting diodes (LED) on respective sides of the support configured to direct light in opposite general directions, a housing configured to cover the support and the at least two opposing LEDs; and end caps including electrical connectors to connect to electrical connections of the existing linear fluorescent fixture.