Bridge Suspension Wire LED Modules for Glare-Controlled Lighting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for hanging LED lights from bridge suspension wires face issues such as light outages due to corrosion, require multiple strings of wires for coverage, and cause glare, making installation time-consuming and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising LED modules with a lens, split housing, and cradle, along with brackets and keepers, that allow efficient installation, reduce corrosion risk, and control glare, using a single string of wires for multi-directional lighting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If multiple strings of wires are used to cover the entire length of the suspension wire, then the lighting coverage is improved, but the installation time and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The LED lighting system is divided into modular LED modules that can be independently attached to the suspension wire. Each module contains its own LEDs and can be spaced along the wire, eliminating the need for continuous multiple strings of wires while maintaining full lighting coverage. This segmentation allows for simpler, faster installation of individual modules.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a linear string-of-wires approach to a modular approach where LED modules are attached at discrete points along the suspension wire. This dimensional change from continuous linear coverage to discrete point coverage along the same linear path reduces the total wire length needed while maintaining coverage.
2Area of stationary object
If multiple strings of wires are routed in parallel to cover the suspension wire, then the lighting coverage is improved, but the device complexity and installation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the lighting into independent LED modules attached to the suspension wire, eliminating the need for complex parallel wire routing. Each module is self-contained and can be independently installed, greatly simplifying the overall system complexity.
3Illumination intensity
If LEDs are positioned to emit light in multiple directions for visibility from both sides of the bridge, then the visibility is improved, but the glare to motorists increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different optical characteristics to different parts of the LED module. LEDs facing downward emit light for visibility from one side, while LEDs facing upward emit light for visibility from the other side. This local differentiation of light direction allows bidirectional visibility while controlling glare by directing light away from motorists.
Solution Approach 2:
The LED modules are configured with asymmetric LED placement and orientation - some LEDs face downward while others face upward. This asymmetric configuration enables light to be emitted in different directions to serve different viewing angles without creating glare for motorists below.
Data Source
AI summary
An LED module includes a lens, a split housing, and a cradle. The cradle defines a central opening, and includes a plurality of upwardly extending flanges, a plurality of downwardly extending flanges, and a pair of mounting cars.