LED Retrofit Centering Ring with Rim Recesses
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Solution Overview
Problem
LED retrofit lamps face challenges in fitting into existing vehicle headlight fixtures due to thickness differences between metal centering rings of conventional halogen lamps and plastic centering rings, leading to fixation issues, particularly with spring clamping mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A centering ring design with recesses in the outer rim, allowing for thinning only where clamping springs engage, maintaining stability by retaining thickness in non-peripheral parts, and potentially extending recesses homogeneously along the rim for mass production compatibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the centering ring is made thinner to accommodate spring clamping mechanisms, then the fixation compatibility with LED retrofit lamps is improved, but the mechanical stability and strength of the ring is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The centering ring is designed with non-uniform thickness, featuring localized recesses in the outer rim that create thinner regions specifically at clamping spring engagement points. The majority of the ring maintains its original thickness to preserve overall mechanical stability. This local quality variation allows the ring to accommodate spring clamping mechanisms while maintaining sufficient structural strength.
2Ease of manufacture
If common plastic materials are used for the centering ring, then manufacturing costs are reduced, but the precision and reliability of fixation are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the geometric parameters of the centering ring by introducing recesses with specific depth and width dimensions in the outer rim. These parameter modifications enable common plastic materials to achieve the required fixation precision by providing defined engagement geometries for the clamping springs, compensating for the generally lower precision characteristics of plastic compared to metal.
Data Source
AI summary
A centering ring for an LED retrofit lamp is described. The lamp includes a ring-shaped body that includes an outer ring and an opening in a central region of the ring-shaped body that receives the LED retrofit lamp. The lamp also includes a recess formed in the outer rim of the ring-shaped body in at least two locations.