Brackets for lighting fixture systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing linear lighting fixtures face challenges in achieving precise alignment and secure connection without visible mounting hardware, especially when installed at heights of ten feet or more, which affects aesthetic appeal and installation complexity.
Innovation Solution
The use of a coupling bracket system with a drive system, including a worm drive and retention member, allows for the tight joining and linear adjustment of lighting fixtures, accessible from both top and bottom, enabling precise alignment and increased rigidity without visible hardware.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional mounting hardware is used to connect lighting fixtures, then secure connection is achieved, but visible hardware compromises aesthetic appeal
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting hardware is extracted and concealed within the fixture housing. The bracket system is designed so that connection components are hidden inside the fixture bodies, leaving only a clean external appearance without visible hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
A coupling bracket serves as an intermediary mechanism between fixtures. The bracket is received within the fixture housing and provides the connection function internally, mediating between the need for secure attachment and the desire for clean aesthetics.
2Area of stationary object
If fixtures are installed at heights of ten feet or more, then spatial illumination is improved, but alignment precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket system incorporates adjustable linkages that allow for dynamic alignment adjustments after installation. The link system can be adjusted to compensate for alignment errors, enabling precise positioning even when fixtures are installed at difficult-to-reach heights.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket includes pre-configured adjustment mechanisms that allow alignment to be fine-tuned after the fixtures are mounted. This preliminary adjustment capability compensates for any alignment imperfections introduced during high-altitude installation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If modular fixtures are assembled on-site to form long continuous runs, then installation flexibility is improved, but alignment consistency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket system features adjustable linkages that enable alignment correction during on-site assembly. The dynamic adjustment capability allows installers to compensate for cumulative alignment errors that occur when assembling multiple modular fixture segments.
Solution Approach 2:
The link system provides feedback mechanisms that allow alignment to be monitored and adjusted during assembly. This enables real-time correction of alignment inconsistencies as fixtures are connected in sequence to form long continuous runs.
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 solution enhances the straightness and alignment of linear lighting fixtures, reduces installation complexity, and maintains aesthetic appeal by allowing for precise adjustment and secure connection of fixtures, minimizing manufacturing tolerances' impact on long lighting runs.
Implementation Method 1
a worm drive including a worm rotatable about a first rotating axis and a worm gear rotatable about a second rotating axis; and a threaded bolt coupled to the worm gear, wherein the worm drive is configured to rotate the threaded bolt about the second rotating axis
Implementation Method 2
a threaded bolt coupled to the worm gear, wherein the worm drive is configured to rotate the threaded bolt about the second rotating axis so as to engage the threaded nut and draw the second end and the first end together
Data Source
AI summary
A bracket for joining a first fixture to a second fixture includes a housing configured to be coupled to the first fixture, a drive system disposed at least partially within the housing, and a retention member coupled to the drive system. The retention member is configured to engage with the second fixture and draw the second fixture and the first fixture together upon actuation of the drive system.