Integrated lighting and power for cabinetry and connectors for same
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation of lighting systems in storage cabinets is tedious, time-consuming, and complicated, requiring physical modifications to the cabinets and separate power connections for each lighting zone, which can lead to voltage drop and inconsistent lighting levels.
Innovation Solution
An integrated lighting and power system for cabinetry that includes multi-channel light strips with independent control of each zone, universal connectors that allow for flexible connection of light strips and power distribution, and a wireless controller for remote operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If separate power connections are made for each lighting zone, then independent control of each zone is achieved, but installation complexity and time increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-installing connectors within the cabinet structures during manufacturing, rather than during field installation. This allows installers to simply plug in light strips during installation without drilling holes or making electrical connections, dramatically reducing installation time while maintaining independent zone control capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces connectors as intermediary components that simplify the connection process. These connectors serve as mediators between the power source and multiple lighting zones, allowing single-power-source operation while maintaining independent control of each zone through separate connector interfaces
2Ease of operation
If multiple separate power cords are run for each lighting zone, then each zone can be independently controlled, but the number of connections and system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple power delivery functions into a single power source system. By using one power source that distributes power through pre-installed connectors to multiple lighting zones, the system reduces the number of power cords and connections from multiple separate power sources to a single consolidated power delivery system
Solution Approach 2:
The connectors are designed as universal components that can serve multiple functions: providing electrical connection, enabling independent zone control, and simplifying installation. This multi-functionality reduces the need for specialized components for each lighting zone, thereby reducing overall system complexity
3Device complexity
If light strips are connected in series from cabinet to cabinet, then all zones can be powered through single connection, but voltage drop occurs leading to inconsistent lighting levels
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves equipotentiality by providing direct power connections to each lighting zone through pre-installed connectors rather than series connections. This ensures that each zone receives the same voltage level from the power source, eliminating voltage drop issues and ensuring consistent lighting intensity across all zones
4Adaptability or versatility
If physical modifications such as drilling holes are made to cabinets for lighting installation, then lighting features can be installed, but the installation process becomes tedious and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-installing all necessary connectors, mounting brackets, and electrical connection points during cabinet manufacturing. This eliminates the need for field installers to drill holes or make physical modifications to cabinets, reducing installation to simple plug-and-play operations
Data Source
AI summary
A cabinet system with integrated lighting and power includes a first illumination zone associated with a cabinet, a first connector, a first light strip, and a driver. The first connector has a first port defining a first axis and a second through port with open opposite ends and defining a second axis orthogonal to the first axis. The first light strip has an elongate substrate with a first end, a second end, a plurality of illumination elements along the length of the substrate, and multiple traces extending lengthwise along the substrate. The traces include a positive and a negative power trace, a first trace connected to the illumination elements, and a second trace not connected to the illumination elements. The first end is configured to be received in any one of the first port or the opposite ends of the second through port. The driver is coupled to a power source and has a lead with a slide connector configured to slide onto the first light strip. The illumination elements are selectively controlled by controlling power to the positive and negative power traces and the first trace to selectively illuminate the first illumination zone.