Modular Lighting Assembly with Interchangeable Cables
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional modular lighting systems face challenges in providing sufficient power to lights farther away from the main power source, limiting design flexibility and requiring costly rearrangement or replacement.
Innovation Solution
A modular lighting system with interchangeable cables and circuit boards that distribute power efficiently, using a base circuit board and a lighting unit circuit board to reduce power transmission distance, allowing lights to be rearranged freely.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If modular lighting systems use a single power source at the beginning of the line, then the system is simple to install and cost-effective, but lights farther away from the power source receive insufficient power
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the lighting system into modular segments where each base unit can function as an independent power reception and distribution node. Each base includes a circuit board with power input and output capabilities, allowing the system to be segmented into multiple power zones rather than relying on a single centralized power source. This segmentation enables lights farther from the main power source to receive adequate power through intermediate power distribution points.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a linear power distribution model (single power source at the end of the line) to a multi-dimensional power distribution network where power can be injected at multiple points along the system. The base units with cable connectors enable power to be distributed in multiple directions simultaneously, creating a tree-like or mesh power distribution topology that solves the power attenuation problem in distant lights.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional lighting systems are custom-made to fit specific spaces, then the lighting can be tailored to particular functions or activities, but the systems are very expensive and require careful installation and wiring
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs universal base units and cable connectors that can be used in various lighting configurations and spatial arrangements. The standardized T-shaped bases with cable connectors allow the same modular components to serve multiple functions and adapt to different installation scenarios without requiring custom-made systems. This universality maintains adaptability while significantly reducing manufacturing and installation costs through mass production of standardized parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables dynamic reconfiguration of the lighting system through modular bases and interchangeable cables. Users can easily add, remove, or rearrange lighting units by simply connecting or disconnecting cable assemblies, allowing the system to adapt to changing spatial requirements or functional needs without costly reinstallation or replacement of entire system portions.
3Ease of operation
If modular lighting systems are designed with fixed cable connections, then the system structure is simple, but rearranging lighting units is time-consuming and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic reconfigurability through standardized cable connectors and modular base units. The T-shaped bases with multiple cable connectors allow lighting units to be easily moved and repositioned by simply disconnecting and reconnecting cable assemblies. This dynamic design enables rapid system reconfiguration without requiring technical expertise or special tools, dramatically reducing both time and cost associated with rearranging lighting units.
Solution Approach 2:
The universal cable connectors and base designs allow the same cable assemblies to be used in various connection configurations. The interchangeable nature of the components enables any base to connect to any other base or lighting unit through the standardized connectors, facilitating easy rearrangement and reconfiguration of the entire lighting system without being constrained by fixed connection points.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular lighting system includes a base that includes three cable connectors, a first cable connected to a first cable connector and connecting the base to a first adjacent base, a second cable connected to a second cable connector and connecting the base to a second adjacent base, a third cable connected to a third cable connector and connecting the base to a lighting unit, and the lighting unit. The first adjacent base is disposed upstream from the base, and the second adjacent base is disposed downstream from the base. The first, second, and third cables are interchangeable such that they can connect to any of the three cable connectors. Power transmitted along the third cable is less than power transmitted along the first cable and than power transmitted along the second cable.