Ceiling Beam Magnetic Coupling for Quick Lighting Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ceiling systems for offices, museums, and shops lack safety features, are not versatile enough for heavy accessories, and require lengthy installation times, while also compromising on aesthetic appeal and ease of configuration.
Innovation Solution
A ceiling-mounted system comprising longitudinal profiles with conductive guide rails and magnetic/mechanical coupling for removable lighting devices and accessories, allowing for quick installation, safe operation, and adaptable configuration without screws, while supporting heavy loads and minimizing cable complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional mechanical coupling methods (screws, clips) are used to attach lighting devices to ceiling beams, then the connection is structurally sound, but the installation time is lengthy and reconfiguration is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical coupling systems (screws, clips, bolts) with a magnetic coupling system. The lighting device incorporates magnetic elements that attract to ferromagnetic materials in the ceiling beam, enabling rapid attachment and detachment without tools. This substitution maintains connection reliability through controlled magnetic force while dramatically improving installation speed and reconfiguration ease.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic coupling system allows the lighting device to be dynamically attached and detached from the ceiling beam. The magnetic force provides sufficient holding strength during normal operation, but allows easy removal when needed by overcoming the magnetic attraction. This dynamic characteristic enables flexible reconfiguration while maintaining secure connection during use.
2Strength
If heavy accessories are mounted on ceiling beams, then the system has high load capacity, but the mounting structure becomes complex and requires additional reinforcement
Solution Approach 1:
The ceiling beam incorporates ferromagnetic materials (such as steel or iron alloys) within its structure, creating a composite material system that combines structural strength with magnetic attractivity. This allows the same beam to serve both as a load-bearing element and as a magnetic coupling surface, eliminating the need for separate reinforcement structures when mounting heavy accessories.
Solution Approach 2:
The ceiling beam is designed to serve multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support for the ceiling, acts as a mounting rail for lighting devices, and serves as a magnetic coupling surface for both light and heavy accessories. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity while maintaining high load capacity.
3Reliability
If multiple cables are used to power and control lighting devices, then the electrical connections are reliable, but the installation becomes complex and aesthetically unpleasing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple electrical functions into a single integrated connector. The magnetic coupling mechanism simultaneously establishes both mechanical attachment and electrical connection in one action. Power and control signals are transmitted through the magnetic coupling interface or through integrated contacts, eliminating the need for separate cable management and reducing installation complexity while maintaining reliable electrical connections.
4Ease of manufacture
If lighting devices are permanently fixed to ceiling beams, then the installation is simple, but reconfiguration and adaptation to changing needs become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic coupling system creates a dynamically attachable connection that appears permanent during normal use but allows easy reconfiguration. The lighting device can be attached to any position along the ceiling beam by simply bringing it near the beam to engage magnetic attraction, and removed by overcoming the magnetic force. This enables simple initial installation while providing full adaptability for future reconfiguration.
Solution Approach 2:
The lighting system is segmented into independent, modular units that can be individually attached, removed, or repositioned on different ceiling beam sections. This modular approach with magnetic coupling allows the system to be configured flexibly to match changing spatial requirements while maintaining simple installation procedures.
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 system provides a safe, versatile, and aesthetically pleasing solution that reduces installation time, supports heavy accessories, and allows for easy reconfiguration, enhancing safety and functionality with magnetic and mechanical coupling mechanisms.
Implementation Method 1
first means for the magnetic coupling of said at least one lighting device and of said at least one longitudinal conductive guide rail
Data Source
Figure 1A~2
Figure 3~5
Figure 6A~6B
AI summary
A system installable in a space (E) at a ceiling (C), comprising at least one longitudinal profile or beam (10) couplable with the ceiling (C), at least one longitudinal conductive guide rail (41') fixable to the profile or beam (10) and that can be power-supplied with electric power supply means and at least one lighting device (40) removably coupled with the longitudinal beam or profile (10) and electrically connected with the longitudinal conductive guide rail (41'). The profile or beam (10) comprises a pair of lateral walls (11, 12) mutually facing each other and an upper wall (13) designated to be faced towards the ceiling (C) mutually cooperating to internally define a compartment (14) open at the bottom to removably receive the lighting device (40); The system further comprises first means (60) for the magnetic coupling of the lighting device (40) and the longitudinal conductive guide rail (41') and second means (70) for the removable mechanical coupling of the lighting device (40) and of the profile or beam (10), said second coupling means (70) cooperating with the first magnetic coupling means (60).