Composite Lighting System Retrofit for Edison Base Compatibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lighting systems are often incompatible with LED lamps, requiring replacement of entire systems when switching from incandescent lamps, which is costly and limits illumination options, as they are designed for specific lamp sizes and voltages, and lack flexibility in adjusting light characteristics.
Innovation Solution
A composite lighting system is retrofitted to accommodate lamps with Edison bases by modifying the existing screw-terminal-base connectors and transformers to accept 120v lamps, allowing for the use of a variety of LED lamps with Edison bases, enabling easier replacement and adjustment of light characteristics without replacing the entire system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the lighting system is designed for specific lamp sizes and voltages (12v with screw-terminal-base connectors), then the system provides stable and reliable operation, but the system lacks adaptability to accommodate different lamp types (such as LED lamps with Edison bases)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by modifying the lighting system to accept multiple lamp types through different interfaces. An adapter mechanism is introduced that allows both screw-terminal-base connectors (for original 12v lamps) and Edison bases (for LED lamps) to be accommodated within the same lighting assembly, enabling the system to perform multiple functions with different lamp types without requiring complete system replacement
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an adapter as an intermediary component that bridges between the existing screw-terminal-base connector system and new Edison base LED lamps. This adapter serves as a mediator that translates between different electrical connection standards, allowing compatibility between the original 12v system design and modern LED lamps without direct modification to the lamp housing or wiring harness
2Adaptability or versatility
If the entire lighting system is replaced to accommodate LED lamps, then full compatibility with new lamp types is achieved, but the cost and time of installation increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by isolating the adaptation function into a separate, modular adapter component rather than modifying the entire lighting system. This allows the adapter to be independently installed and removed without affecting the rest of the lighting assembly, enabling quick installation and future upgrades without time-consuming system-wide modifications
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter is designed with pre-configured wiring and connection points that anticipate future LED lamp installations. The electrical connections are prepared in advance during adapter manufacturing, so that during installation, users only need to connect the adapter to the existing system and plug in LED lamps, eliminating the need for on-site wiring modifications and reducing installation time
3Adaptability or versatility
If the transformer is retained in the lighting assembly, then the system maintains its original 12v operation, but it cannot directly accommodate 120v LED lamps with Edison bases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the taking out principle by electrically isolating the transformer from the lamp connection circuitry. The adapter is designed to bypass the transformer for Edison base connections, allowing 120v LED lamps to receive direct line voltage without passing through the 120v to 12v transformation process. This extraction of the transformer from the direct lamp power path enables compatibility with 120v LED lamps while preserving the transformer's function for original 12v lamps
Data Source
AI summary
A method for retrofitting a lighting system includes providing a lighting assembly with a screw-terminal-base connector disposed in a lamp housing. A power-supply conductive wire includes a second length coupling the screw-terminal-base connector to a transformer and a first length coupled to the transformer and coupleable to a power supply. The first and second lengths of the power-supply conductive wire are severed and the transformer is removed. The severed first and second lengths are spliced together. An Edison-base receptacle is mounted to the lamp housing. The second length of the power-supply conductive wire is electrically coupled to the Edison-base receptacle.