Hardscape Lamp Plate Mounting Between Stacked Elements

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing lighting solutions for hardscape structures, such as retaining walls, are often standalone and not integrated into the structural design, making them aesthetically and functionally less desirable.

Innovation Solution

A lamp design that mounts onto a structure formed of discrete elements, using a plate positioned between the elements to retain the lamp in place, with a light fixture attached, and optional features like a flange, face plate, and side panels for directed lighting, along with a light transmitting cover for protection and enhancement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If standalone lamps are used adjacent to hardscaping, then installation is simple and independent, but aesthetic integration and visual harmony are poor

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation simplicityVSAvoidaesthetic integration
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The lamp is merged with the hardscape structure by integrating it into the stacked elements. The mounting plate is positioned between discrete hardscape elements, and the lamp body extends outward to provide illumination. This combining approach achieves both aesthetic integration into the hardscape design and functional lighting, eliminating the need for separate standalone lamp installations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Shape

If lamps are integrated into hardscape structures, then aesthetic appearance and design harmony are improved, but installation complexity and structural disruption increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaesthetic integrationVSAvoidinstallation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ShapeVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The lamp is divided into separate components: a mounting plate for attachment to the hardscape structure, a lamp body extending outward, and a light fixture. The mounting plate is positioned between discrete hardscape elements without requiring structural modifications to the stacked elements. This segmentation allows the lamp to be integrated aesthetically while maintaining simple installation that does not disrupt the hardscape construction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Stability of the object's composition

If lamps are mounted between stacked elements, then structural integrity is maintained without mortar, but mounting stability and retention force are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehardscape structural integrityVSAvoidmounting retention force
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting plate is designed with features that engage with the discrete hardscape elements during the stacking process itself. The plate is positioned between elements as they are stacked, and its configuration (such as engagement protrusions or friction-fit surfaces) provides immediate retention without requiring additional mortar or structural modifications. This preliminary integration ensures both structural integrity and mounting stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS10393331B2Lamp and illuminated hardscape
Publication Date: 2019.08.27 HARTMAN DESIGN INC
  • US10393331B2 patent drawing
  • US10393331B2 patent drawing
  • US10393331B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A lamp and a hardscape structure illuminated by the lamp are disclosed. The lamp is formed from a plate to which a light fixture is attached. The plate may have a flange, a decorative face plate and side panels attached to direct light from the fixture along the hardscape on which the lamp is mounted. Mounting is effected by positioning the plate between discrete hardscape elements that are stacked one atop another. A portion of the plate projects out from the structure allowing the fixture to cast light on the structure surface. A light transmitting cover is also provided.