Ceiling Clamp for Recessed Light Mounting in Finished Ceilings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional recessed light fixture mounting assemblies are limited by space constraints behind ceilings, particularly in remodel situations, and are not adaptable to varying wall thicknesses, making them difficult to install in finished ceilings and unsuitable for small diameter fixtures.
Innovation Solution
A lighting mount assembly featuring movably adjustable brackets with resilient members and a mounting frame that clamps onto the ceiling, allowing for secure installation from below and accommodating different ceiling thicknesses, while maintaining a minimal profile for aesthetic and mechanical considerations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional bar hangers are used for mounting recessed light fixtures, then the fixtures can be mounted in new construction, but the installation becomes difficult or impossible in finished ceilings with limited space behind the ceiling
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting assembly inverts the traditional approach by mounting from below the ceiling rather than from above. The bracket is installed in the junction box below the ceiling, with the mounting frame engaging the ceiling from the opposite direction, enabling installation in finished ceilings where conventional top-down mounting is impossible
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting assembly is divided into separate functional components: a bracket portion installed in the junction box below the ceiling, and a mounting frame portion that engages the ceiling. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function and enables installation in constrained spaces
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional mounting assemblies are used, then they can accommodate standard ceiling thicknesses, but they cannot adapt to varying wall thicknesses
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting frame incorporates adjustable components that allow dynamic adaptation to different ceiling thicknesses. The frame can be positioned at various heights and angles to accommodate varying distances between the ceiling surface and the junction box, eliminating the need for multiple fixed-size mounting assemblies
3Shape
If the mounting assembly profile is reduced for aesthetic concealment, then the fixture becomes more aesthetically pleasing, but the space available for heat sink design and mechanical considerations is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting assembly utilizes the vertical dimension and the space above the ceiling opening for heat sink and mechanical components, while maintaining a minimal profile at the ceiling surface level. This dimensional separation allows aesthetic concealment at the visible interface while providing adequate space for thermal management in the less-constrained regions
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 easy installation of recessed light fixtures in limited spaces, accommodating various ceiling thicknesses without affecting visual aesthetics or lighting performance, and allows for better heat sink design by maintaining a fixed distance between the resilient member and the ceiling.
Implementation Method 1
The resilient member is configured to contact and hold a recessed light fixture, such as a canister-type housing (or 'can'), in the ceiling opening
Data Source
AI summary
A lighting mount assembly and method are disclosed to mount a recessed light fixture in an opening in a wall. The lighting mount assembly includes a mounting frame, and at least two adjustable brackets which are movable relative to the mounting frame. The mounting frame and the brackets cooperate to clamp a portion of the wall from opposing sides. Each of the brackets also includes a resilient member, such as a leg spring, which can be engaged to and disengaged from a portion of a light fixture, such as a groove, to hold or release the recessed light fixture in the wall opening.