Externally Actuated Joiner Assembly for Modular Lighting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for joining modular lighting fixtures, such as nut-and-bolt assemblies, face challenges like tool accessibility issues and complex manufacturing/installation requirements, particularly when trying to assemble structures like linear lighting fixtures without disassembly.
Innovation Solution
A joiner assembly featuring a hook element with a translational element and actuator, allowing for external actuation without interior access, enabling secure connection of housing sections from the exterior.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If nut-and-bolt method is used to join modular sections, then the sections can be securely connected, but tools become difficult to fit inside the sections requiring fixture disassembly
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator is extracted from the interior space constraint and positioned externally on the housing section. This allows the tool to access and operate the joiner assembly from the exterior, eliminating the need to disassemble the fixture for tool insertion while maintaining the secure nut-and-bolt connection mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
A translational element acts as an intermediary between the externally positioned actuator and the hook element. This intermediary mechanism transmits the actuating force from the external tool through the housing section wall to rotate the hook element, enabling interior fastening operations from an exterior position.
2Ease of operation
If cast plates or interlocking housings are used as alternative solutions, then assembly can proceed without disassembly, but the manufacturing and installation become complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The joiner assembly is segmented into distinct functional components: a hook element for engagement, a translational element for force transmission, and an actuator for operation. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured independently using standard processes and assembled straightforwardly, reducing overall manufacturing complexity compared to integrated cast plates or interlocking housings.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of incorporating the fastening mechanism directly into the housing structure (which would complicate manufacturing), the invention inverts the approach by providing a separate, externally-operated joiner assembly that interfaces with the housing. This separates the fastening function from the housing manufacturing, simplifying both.
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
Facilitates reliable and uniform joint formation between lighting fixture sections without requiring disassembly or internal tool access, enhancing assembly efficiency and reducing manufacturing complexity.
Implementation Method 1
an actuator operably connected to the translational element such that rotational movement of the actuator causes the translational element rotate the hook element from a first position to a second position
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and apparatus for joining structures, such as light fixture sections, are provided. In some example embodiments, a joiner assembly can include a hook element having an opening defined in at least one side portion of the hook element and a translational element passing through the opening of the hook element. The joiner assembly further includes an actuator operably connected to the translational element such that rotational movement of the actuator causes the translational element rotate the hook element from a first position to a second position.