LED Hold-Down Assembly With Integrated Optic Fixing

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Solution Overview

Problem

The installation space in modern luminaires is limited due to miniaturization, and existing hold-down devices are large and heavy, making them unsuitable for modern, delicate lighting applications.

Innovation Solution

The design of hold-down devices that integrate additional functions beyond just pressing the LED board, such as fixing and positioning, with adaptable fixing means that allow for independent attachment and detachment of components, optimizing installation space and assembly processes, and using materials like glass fiber-reinforced thermoplastics for enhanced strength and flexibility.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Temperature

If traditional hold-down devices are used to press the LED circuit board, then the necessary cooling capacity is achieved, but the installation space increases and the luminaire becomes heavier

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecooling capacityVSAvoidinstallation space
Core Design Contradiction:
TemperatureVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the holding function and the fixing function into a single integrated retainer component. The retainer simultaneously presses the LED circuit board against the heat sink and secures the optic to the housing, eliminating the need for separate fastening elements and reducing installation space.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The retainer is designed as a multi-functional component that performs multiple tasks: it acts as a pressure element for thermal contact, a mounting element for the optic, and a positioning element. This universal design reduces the number of components and optimizes the use of installation space.

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

2Reliability

If traditional hold-down devices are used, then the LED circuit board is securely pressed, but the number of components increases and assembly complexity rises

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecure pressingVSAvoidnumber of components
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple functions into a single retainer component, which simultaneously provides pressing force and fixing capability. This integration reduces the number of components and simplifies the assembly process while maintaining secure pressing of the LED circuit board.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The retainer is designed as a universal component that performs multiple functions: pressing the LED board, securing the optic, and providing positioning. This multi-functionality reduces component count and assembly complexity.

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

3Force

If the holding surface is removed for component attachment, then the clamping force is compromised, but if it is kept, then components cannot be independently attached

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveclamping forceVSAvoidindependent attachment
Core Design Contradiction:
ForceVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent resolves the conflict by utilizing a different spatial dimension. The holding surface remains intact for applying clamping force in the vertical direction, while fixing elements are added on the lateral surfaces of the retainer for independent attachment of components in the horizontal direction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The retainer is segmented into different functional zones: the holding surface for pressing, and separate fixing elements for attachment. This segmentation allows each function to operate independently without interfering with the other.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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 reduces the required installation space, allows for simpler and more precise assembly, and supports the integration of modern lighting concepts by providing a flexible and space-optimized solution for modern, delicate lights with reduced overall height.

Implementation Method 1

the fixing elements can have uniform or different spring properties

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

the contact surfaces or edges of the fixing elements preferably extend in a plane different from the hold-down surface

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentEP3922909B1LED assembly with hold-down devices
Publication Date: 2023.08.30 TRILUX GMBH & CO KG
  • EP3922909B1 patent drawingFigure 1A~1C
  • EP3922909B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3922909B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to a hold-down device 2, which can be attached to a joining partner, e.g., a luminaire housing 8, a device carrier, or the like, by means of a screw, a fastening rivet, or other fastening means, and which is designed to press a clamping component, e.g., a plate-shaped LED board 4, onto the joining partner. In order to optimize the increasingly limited installation space, particularly in luminaires, it is proposed that the hold-down device include fixing means for fixing clamping components, e.g., a primary optic 10 and/or a secondary optic 12.