Deformable Braces for LED Board Positioning in Fluorescent Retrofits
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Solution Overview
Problem
The conversion from traditional fluorescent lighting systems to LED-based solid-state lighting systems is often time-consuming and expensive, requiring the replacement of entire fixtures and necessitating specialized tools and training.
Innovation Solution
An LED lamp design that fits into existing fluorescent housings, using tombstone connectors to provide current, allowing for quick and easy conversion of traditional fluorescent lights to LED-based systems without the need for specialized tools or training, featuring an optically transmissive enclosure and deformable braces for secure mounting and heat dissipation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional fluorescent lighting systems are replaced with LED-based systems, then energy efficiency and durability are improved, but conversion complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The LED lighting system is divided into separate functional modules: an LED board containing multiple LEDs, deformable braces for positioning, and an enclosure. This segmentation allows the LED board to be replaced as a single unit while maintaining compatibility with existing fluorescent fixtures, reducing conversion complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The LED board is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it houses the LEDs for light emission, provides electrical connections through pins, and integrates heat dissipation pathways. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, simplifying the overall conversion process.
2Loss of time
If LED boards are used in fluorescent housings, then conversion time is reduced, but structural support and positioning stability become critical
Solution Approach 1:
The braces are designed to be deformable rather than rigid, allowing them to flex during installation to accommodate slight variations in positioning. This dynamic flexibility enables quick installation while maintaining stable positioning once installed, resolving the contradiction between conversion speed and positioning stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The braces change their physical state from a flexible, deformable condition during installation to a rigid, stable condition during operation. This parameter change allows the system to prioritize installation speed initially, then automatically achieves positioning stability through the braces' deformation and locking into place.
3Ease of manufacture
If LEDs are mounted directly in the enclosure, then manufacturing is simplified, but heat dissipation becomes a critical challenge
Solution Approach 1:
The LED board serves as an intermediary component between the LEDs and the enclosure. It provides a structured platform that integrates heat dissipation pathways, electrical connections, and mechanical mounting features. This intermediary design simplifies manufacturing by consolidating multiple functions into a single component while effectively managing heat away from the LEDs.
4Illumination intensity
If multiple LEDs are arranged in arrays, then light output and color control are improved, but electrical path complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple LEDs are merged onto a single LED board that is electrically connected as one integrated unit. The board consolidates electrical pathways, allowing the entire array to be controlled through a unified electrical connection system. This merging approach maintains high light output through multiple LEDs while reducing electrical path complexity compared to individual LED wiring.
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 a rapid and cost-effective conversion of fluorescent lighting to LED lighting, maintaining similar light distribution patterns and reducing the need for extensive training or equipment, while ensuring safety through structural integrity and isolation of electrical components.
Implementation Method 1
The plurality of braces may be made of a deformable material. The legs may be deformed by the engagement of the legs with the enclosure.
Implementation Method 2
The enclosure and the braces may be formed of the same optically transmissive material. The optical material may diffuse light emitted by the LEDs.
Implementation Method 3
The LED board may comprise a thermally conductive material.
Data Source
AI summary
A LED lamp includes an elongated at least partially optically transmissive enclosure having a first end and a second end. LEDs are in the enclosure and are operable to emit light through the enclosure when energized through an electrical path. A first pin is mounted to the first end of the enclosure and a second pin mounted to the second end of the enclosure, the first pin and the second pin are in the electrical path. The LEDs are mounted on an LED board. A plurality of discrete braces are spaced along the length of the LED board and are mounted to the LED board. The braces support and position the LED board in the enclosure.