Integrated LED Acoustic Tile for Ceiling Grid Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing linear fluorescent lighting fixtures are cumbersome to install, lack sound dampening, and require environmentally hazardous mercury disposal, while also being inefficient in terms of energy usage and maintenance.
Innovation Solution
The integration of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) within acoustic tiles that can be easily suspended in a ceiling grid, featuring a conductive surround with tabs for secure installation, a driver for power, and acoustic absorption materials for combined lighting and sound dampening, simplifying installation and reducing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional linear fluorescent lighting fixtures are used, then lighting function is provided, but installation is time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the acoustic tile and lighting fixture into a single integrated unit. The lighting assembly is mounted directly to the acoustic tile, eliminating the need for separate installation of fixtures in ceiling grid spaces. This combination simplifies installation to a single step while providing both acoustic dampening and lighting functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated unit serves multiple functions simultaneously: the acoustic tile provides sound dampening while the mounted lighting assembly provides illumination. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate acoustic treatment and lighting installation, reducing overall system complexity and installation time.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional fluorescent lighting fixtures are used, then lighting is provided, but sound dampening is not included
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines acoustic tile and lighting fixture into one integrated assembly that can be installed as a single unit in ceiling grid spaces. This merging provides both acoustic dampening and lighting functions simultaneously, enhancing versatility without significantly increasing complexity since the components are mounted together rather than integrated at a manufacturing level.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If fluorescent tubes are used, then lighting is provided, but mercury disposal is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs LED technology which replaces mercury-containing fluorescent tubes. LEDs contain no mercury and have longer lifespans, eliminating the need for hazardous waste disposal procedures. This substitution removes the environmental hazard entirely while improving reliability through extended service life and reduced maintenance requirements.
4Ease of repair
If fluorescent lighting fixtures are mounted in ceiling grids, then lighting is provided, but maintenance is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
By mounting the lighting assembly directly to the acoustic tile, the patent creates a unified unit that can be easily removed and replaced as a single component. This integration simplifies maintenance since the entire assembly can be accessed and replaced by simply removing the tile from the ceiling grid, rather than dealing with separately mounted fixtures.
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
This solution provides efficient, energy-saving LED lighting with enhanced reliability, easy maintenance, and improved sound dampening, offering a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional fluorescent fixtures.
Implementation Method 1
A light emitting diode (LED) is mounted on the outward facing side of the surround
Implementation Method 2
A light emitting diode (LED) is mounted on the outward facing side of the surround. A driver is connected to the LED to provide power to the LED for directing light from the outward facing side
Implementation Method 3
The integration of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) within acoustic tiles that can be easily suspended in a ceiling grid, featuring a conductive surround with tabs for secure installation, a driver for power, and acoustic absorption materials for combined lighting and sound dampening
Data Source
AI summary
A lighting fixture includes a surround formed to receive a tile therein, the surround having an outward facing side. The surround includes tabs that permit suspension of the surround in a ceiling grid. A light emitting diode (LED) is mounted on the outward facing side of the surround. A driver is connected to the LED to provide power to the LED for directing light from the outward facing side.