Configurable Linear Lighting Modules for Ceiling Grid Reconfiguration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional ceiling grid systems suffer from structural integrity issues, monotonous appearance, high installation and maintenance costs, inefficient energy usage, and environmental waste due to complex retrofitting and replacement, failing to meet aesthetic and functional lighting needs.
Innovation Solution
A configurable modular lighting module for ceiling grid systems that provides improved structural support, easy installation, reconfiguration, and energy efficiency, incorporating linear support elements with integrated optical components for customizable light distribution and reflectance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional ceiling grid systems are used, then structural support is provided, but structural integrity deteriorates over time and installation/maintenance costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The lighting system is divided into modular linear lighting modules that can be independently installed and replaced within the ceiling grid. Each module contains integrated optical components and light sources that can be configured separately, allowing for easier maintenance and replacement without affecting the entire ceiling structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The linear lighting modules serve multiple functions: they provide structural support within the ceiling grid, deliver customized light distribution patterns, and offer aesthetic illumination. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate structural and lighting components, lowering overall installation and maintenance costs.
2Illumination intensity
If conventional lighting fixtures are affixed to structural ceilings, then illumination is provided, but appearance becomes monotonous and aesthetically unpleasant
Solution Approach 1:
The linear lighting modules incorporate integrated optical components with varying reflectance properties at different locations along the module length. This allows different sections of the ceiling to have customized light distribution patterns and aesthetic characteristics, creating visual interest and preventing monotony while maintaining effective illumination.
3Illumination intensity
If multiple small lighting devices with multiple light sources are used, then illumination coverage is achieved, but energy usage becomes inefficient and installation/maintenance costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple light sources and optical components are integrated into unified linear lighting modules that can be installed within the ceiling grid. This consolidation reduces the total number of separate fixtures, simplifies installation and maintenance, and improves energy efficiency through optimized light distribution patterns from each integrated module.
4Shape
If ceiling grid arrangements are replaced for refurbishment, then aesthetic updates are achieved, but environmental waste increases due to complex retrofitting
Solution Approach 1:
The linear lighting modules are designed to be dynamically reconfigurable within the existing ceiling grid structure. Modules can be easily added, removed, or repositioned to achieve aesthetic updates without requiring complete ceiling grid replacement. This adaptability reduces material waste and supports sustainable refurbishment practices.
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 solution enhances structural integrity, reduces installation costs, minimizes environmental impact, and offers aesthetically appealing and uniform light distribution, while being energy-efficient and easily recyclable.
Implementation Method 1
an optical element configured to propagate light from the light source into the optical cavity
Implementation Method 2
an optical element configured to propagate light from the light source into the optical cavity
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure generally relates to lighting modules, and more specifically, to a configurable linear lighting module for use within a suspended ceiling grid assembly. The configurable linear lighting module is easy to install and comprises a novel linear support element with internal and external support features which is provided with integrated or removable optical assemblies to deliver lighting distributions tailored to optimally illuminate the surface ceiling panels as well as floors, walls and work surfaces below. When installed within a configured ceiling grid assembly the configurable linear lighting module provides novel support features for ceiling panels to be held in-line, above, below or tilted relative to the existing ceiling grid plane. A wide range of useful lighting distributions are achieved by configuring the optical elements and LED light sources supported and aligned by the linear support element. By selectively applying electrical power to individual light source channels it is further possible to electrically control lighting distributions. As such the configurable linear lighting module provides both aesthetically pleasing features and useful lighting distributions. Furthermore, illustrated embodiments of ceiling grid assemblies comprising one or more of the configurable linear lighting modules demonstrate how both appearance and lighting distributions can be controlled to meet aesthetic and lighting design requirements.