Interconnectable Illuminated Landscaping Modules

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing lighting assemblies for landscaping lack a modular design that allows for physical and electrical interconnectability of lighting modules, limiting their flexibility and effectiveness in illuminating landscapes.

Innovation Solution

A lighting assembly comprising interconnectable modules with complementary first and second connectors, each with bulbs encapsulated in a transparent shell, allowing for customizable positioning and illumination, powered by a modular power system that includes a power cord and optional controller for enhanced functionality.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If traditional non-modular lighting assemblies are used, then installation is simpler, but flexibility and customization capability are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflexibility and customization capabilityVSAvoidmodular design complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The lighting assembly is divided into multiple independent lighting modules that can be individually positioned and interconnected. Each module contains its own housing, bulbs, and connector interfaces, allowing flexible configuration while maintaining simple individual component design. This segmentation enables customization without requiring complex integrated systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The connector interfaces are designed to be universal across all lighting modules, enabling any module to connect with any other module in various configurations. The complementary first and second connectors create a standardized interface that works across the entire system, providing flexibility without requiring multiple specialized connection types.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If lighting modules are made interconnectable with complementary connectors, then physical and electrical interconnectability is achieved, but assembly complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveinterconnectabilityVSAvoidconnector and module assembly complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The electrical connection and physical attachment functions are merged into a single connector interface. When two lighting modules are connected, both mechanical attachment and electrical wiring occur simultaneously through the complementary first and second connectors, eliminating the need for separate connection steps and reducing overall system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The connector design enables automatic alignment and connection of electrical contacts when modules are physically joined. The complementary connector geometry guides proper orientation and ensures reliable electrical engagement without requiring additional alignment mechanisms or complex wiring procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Illumination intensity

If bulbs are encapsulated in transparent shells, then illumination effectiveness is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveillumination effectivenessVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Illumination intensityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

A transparent shell encapsulates the bulbs to protect them while allowing light transmission. The shell serves as both a protective covering and a structural component of the lighting module, integrating multiple functions into a single element that can be manufactured using standard molding techniques.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

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

The solution enhances curb appeal and safety by providing flexible, customizable, and efficient landscape illumination, enabling selective illumination of various landscape features and improving nighttime visibility.

Implementation Method 1

A plurality of bulbs is attached to an upper face of the housing and is operationally engaged to the first connector and the second connector

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight Emitting Diode: Light Emitting Diode

Implementation Method 2

A shell, which is substantially transparent, is attached to the housing and encapsulates the plurality of bulbs

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight transmission: Light

Data Source

PatentUS11713870B1Illuminated landscaping assembly and method of use
Publication Date: 2023.08.01 BOYD BENNIE
  • US11713870B1 patent drawing
  • US11713870B1 patent drawing
  • US11713870B1 patent drawing

AI summary

An illuminated landscaping assembly for illuminating landscaping includes a plurality of lighting modules, each comprising a housing that defines an interior space. A first connector and a second connector are attached to a first edge and a second edge of the housing, respectively. The second connector is complementary to the first connector so that the lighting modules are physically and electrically interconnectable via selective connection of the first connectors and the second connectors. A plurality of bulbs is attached to an upper face of the housing and is operationally engaged to the first connector and the second connector. A shell, which is substantially transparent, is attached to the housing and encapsulates the plurality of bulbs. A respective one of the first connectors and the second connectors is engaged a power cord extending from a power module. With the lighting modules positioned in a landscape, the bulbs selectively illuminate the landscape.