LED Emergency Lighting Fixture with Remote Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current emergency exit lighting systems are inadequate due to their complexity, inefficiency, lack of aesthetic appeal, insufficient illumination, and inability to integrate with existing infrastructure or provide backup power and testing capabilities, particularly for LED-based solutions.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising elongate, rigid LED lighting fixtures with a translucent lens panel, electronically coupled to a power source and backup battery, featuring an on/off test button and wireless antenna for remote activation, designed to be easily installed and aesthetically integrated into ceilings, walls, and doorways, while meeting emergency lighting codes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If traditional fluorescent or incandescent emergency lighting is used, then illumination is provided, but power consumption is high and longevity is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the lighting technology parameter from fluorescent/incandescent to LED, which fundamentally alters the energy consumption and longevity characteristics. LED technology provides lower power consumption while simultaneously extending operational lifespan, resolving the contradiction between these two parameters.
2Illumination intensity
If large emergency lights are strategically placed in few areas, then illumination coverage is achieved, but aesthetic appeal is reduced and integration with existing infrastructure is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the emergency lighting system into multiple small modular units that can be distributed throughout the ceiling grid. Each module contains its own LED light source and can be independently installed in standard T-bar locations, providing widespread illumination coverage while maintaining aesthetic appeal and easy integration with existing ceiling infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The emergency lighting modules are designed to be universally compatible with standard ceiling T-bar grids and can be installed in various locations without requiring special infrastructure. The modules serve multiple functions including emergency illumination, aesthetic lighting, and can be integrated with existing ceiling tile systems.
3Temperature
If LED emergency lights are used with heat sinks, then thermal management is improved, but device complexity and installation complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the heat sink directly into the LED module housing structure, combining the thermal management function with the structural housing. This eliminates the need for separate heat sink components and simplifies installation, as the heat dissipation is built into the module itself rather than requiring additional attachment steps.
4Reliability
If prior art emergency lighting systems are used, then illumination is provided, but ability to test the apparatus and provide backup battery is lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The emergency lighting modules include built-in test buttons that allow users to self-test the functionality of each module, including the LED operation and battery backup systems. The system performs self-diagnostics and allows easy verification of backup power capability without requiring specialized testing equipment or complex procedures.
5Ease of manufacture
If emergency LED lighting systems rest on T-bars, then installation is simplified, but space consumption increases and aesthetic appeal is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the LED modules to have a compact form factor that fits within standard ceiling tile spaces rather than spanning across T-bars. The localized placement within tile cavities provides a clean, flush appearance that maintains aesthetic appeal while still utilizing the T-bar grid infrastructure for simple installation.
6Ease of operation
If floor or adjacent-to-floor emergency lighting is used, then installation is simplified, but illumination adequacy is reduced and durability is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of placing emergency lights at floor level, the patent inverts the installation location to ceiling level. This provides several advantages: ceiling-mounted modules are protected from physical damage and traffic, provide better illumination distribution, and maintain durability while remaining easy to install using standard ceiling grid infrastructure.
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 provides safer, more economical, and efficient emergency lighting with improved aesthetics, adequate illumination, and remote testing capabilities, ensuring compliance with safety codes and reducing maintenance complexity.
Implementation Method 1
At least one LED light may be mounted on the bottom plane. The LED light(s) should be electronically coupled to an LED driver
Implementation Method 2
A translucent lens panel substantially the same size as the flat base may be mounted to the bottom plane of the flat base to diffuse light from the LED light(s)
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for emergency exit LED lighting. The emergency exit lighting fixture comprises a structure for housing at least one LED light, an LED driver electronically coupled to the LED light(s), a continuous power source, a backup power source, and a test switch. The fixture, in various configurations, may be mounted to a wall, a ceiling, or a doorway. The fixture may be tested remotely.