Detachable Flat Lighting Module Connector
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing luminaire designs using LED or OLED lighting panels face challenges in providing a robust, reversible, and detachable connection system that is aesthetically pleasing and mechanically stable, especially when the panel is thin and located at the terminal end of a supporting arm, where directional torque and force can cause connection failure.
Innovation Solution
A thin, flat, robust, detachable, and reversible electrical connection system is developed, featuring a mechanical support plate with a male mechanical support connector section that extends out in the same plane as the lighting module, providing non-permanent locking and supporting the lighting panel and control circuitry, with a lampholder having a female connector that engages the male connector for secure and reversible attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If the lighting panel is made thin and connected at the edge, then the aesthetic appearance and thinness of the luminaire are improved, but the mechanical strength and reliability of the connection deteriorate due to directional torque and force
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a single-point connection to a distributed multi-point connection system. The mechanical support plate extends along the thin edge of the lighting panel, creating multiple contact points with the luminaire body. This distributes the directional torque and force across multiple locations, preventing connection failure while maintaining the thin aesthetic profile of the lighting panel.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system is segmented into multiple independent contact points along the thin edge of the lighting panel. Instead of a single robust connection that would compromise aesthetics, the support plate creates several smaller connection points that collectively provide the necessary mechanical strength to resist directional torque and force.
2Ease of operation
If the lighting panel is made detachable and replaceable, then the ease of operation and maintenance are improved, but the mechanical stability and reliability of the connection deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system incorporates dynamic elements including spring-loaded electrical contacts and a snap-fit mechanical engagement mechanism. The spring-loaded contacts maintain constant electrical connection pressure, while the snap-fit mechanism provides audible and tactile confirmation of proper engagement. These dynamic features ensure reliable electrical and mechanical connection during normal operation while allowing easy detachment when needed.
3Shape
If the male mechanical connector extends in the same plane as the lighting module, then the aesthetic appearance and thinness are improved, but the manufacturing precision and alignment difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical support plate features an asymmetric design with a tapered profile and asymmetric contact point distribution. The plate is thicker near the luminaire body and tapers toward the lighting panel edge, providing natural alignment guidance. This asymmetric geometry ensures that the lighting panel can only be installed in the correct orientation, eliminating alignment errors while maintaining the flat aesthetic appearance of the connection.
Data Source
AI summary
A flat and detachable electrical connection system between a flat lighting module and a lampholder is described. The flat lighting module comprises a lighting panel, control circuitry for controlling the lighting panel, and electrical contact pads connected to the control circuitry, all supported at least in part by a mechanical support plate; the mechanical support plate being at least partially enclosed in a housing with a provision or opening so that light can be emitted from the lighting panel; and where the mechanical support plate includes a male mechanical support connector section that extends out from the mechanical support plate in the same plane as the thickness of the lighting module; and where the male mechanical support connector section includes means for non-permanent locking or latching of the lighting module to the lampholder. The lampholder comprises a female mechanical connector into which the male mechanical support connector section of the lighting module engages and which includes means for non-permanent locking or latching of the male mechanical support connector section of the lighting module; and a male electrical extension that extends out from the female mechanical connector and which engages the electrical contact pads in the lighting module to supply electrical power or communication signals or both to the control circuitry when the lighting module and lampholder are connected. The lighting panel may be LED or OLED and the electrical connection system may be used in a luminaire or lamp.