Conductive Track Base for Magnetic Module Positioning

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electronic systems with primary and secondary coils for powering light elements are difficult for users to adjust for dimming purposes, lacking intuitive control over power and other parameters like color and volume.

Innovation Solution

The system incorporates electrically conductive, parallel tracks on the base part with high resistance, allowing the electronic module to be repositioned magnetically, where the control means calculate resistance to determine position and adjust parameters such as power output based on distance, enabling intuitive control of light intensity and other features.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If primary coils and secondary coils are used for power transmission, then power can be transmitted to the electronic module, but it becomes difficult for users to adjust the power output for dimming purposes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of power adjustmentVSAvoidcontrol mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex electronic control mechanisms with a simple mechanical positioning system. Users physically move the electronic module along conductive tracks to different positions, and the system automatically adjusts power output based on the position detected by the control means. This mechanical interaction (moving the module along tracks) substitutes for complex electronic dimming controls, making the system intuitive and easy to operate while reducing control mechanism complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system automatically determines the module's position on the tracks and adjusts the power output without requiring user intervention for parameter setting. The control means calculate the position based on electrical contact points and autonomously control the power transmission, allowing the system to serve itself in terms of parameter adjustment based on physical position

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Ease of operation

If the base part and electronic module are magnetically attached, then the module can be easily repositioned, but the magnetic force must be strong enough to hold the module securely

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of repositioningVSAvoidmagnetic holding force
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSForce

Solution Approach 1:

The patent utilizes magnetic force as a repositioning aid rather than a permanent fixing mechanism. The magnetic attraction provides sufficient force to guide and initially attach the module to the base part, allowing easy placement and repositioning. The magnetic force parameter is optimized to be strong enough for secure attachment during normal operation but weak enough to allow easy repositioning when needed, achieving a balance between holding force and ease of movement

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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

This solution allows users to easily and intuitively adjust power and other parameters of the electronic module, such as light intensity, by repositioning it along the tracks, providing a logical and user-friendly interface for controlling features like brightness, color, and volume.

Implementation Method 1

the base part is provided with a number of primary coils, whilst the electronic module is provided with a secondary coil. The electronic module can be positioned on the base part, in which case power is transmitted from the primary coils to the secondary coil

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

the base part and the electronic module are releasably magnetically attached to each other

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic attachment: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentEP2502464B1Electronic system as well as a base part and an electronic module suitable for such an electronic system
Publication Date: 2020.05.27 SIGNIFY HOLDING BV
  • EP2502464B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2B
  • EP2502464B1 patent drawingFigure 3
  • EP2502464B1 patent drawingFigure 4

AI summary

An electronic system comprises at least a base part, a power source and at least one electronic module adapted to be powered by the power source. The base part is provided with at least two parallel extending, elongated tracks being electrically conductive. At least one parameter of the electronic module is changeable by amending the distance of the electronic module to a predetermined location on the tracks.