LED Lamp with Integrated Optical Enclosure for Fluorescent Retrofit
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The conversion from traditional fluorescent lighting systems to LED-based systems is time-consuming and expensive, requiring the replacement of entire fixtures, and existing solutions lack simplicity and ease of use.
Innovation Solution
An LED lamp design that fits into existing fluorescent housings, using tombstone connectors for power supply and allowing for easy conversion without specialized tools or training, featuring an optically transmissive enclosure with integrated support structures and a thermally conductive LED board for efficient heat dissipation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If traditional fluorescent lighting systems are replaced with LED-based systems, then energy efficiency and durability are improved, but installation complexity and cost increase due to requiring replacement of entire fixtures
Solution Approach 1:
The LED lighting system is segmented into a modular lamp assembly that can be independently replaced within the existing fluorescent fixture housing. This separates the LED components (enclosure, LEDs, circuit board, pins) from the fixed fixture housing, allowing users to only replace the consumable lamp portion rather than the entire fixture, thereby reducing installation complexity while maintaining energy efficiency benefits
Solution Approach 2:
The LED lamp assembly is designed with universal compatibility features including tombstone connectors that fit standard fluorescent sockets and an elongated enclosure that fits within existing fixture housings. This multi-functional design allows the same LED lamp to replace various types of fluorescent lamps across different fixtures without requiring specialized installation procedures or tools
2Duration of action of stationary object
If traditional fluorescent lighting systems are replaced with LED-based systems, then operational lifespan is improved, but conversion cost and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the replacement process to only involve the removable LED lamp assembly rather than the entire fixture, the conversion time is significantly reduced. Users can quickly swap out the lamp module without disassembling or modifying the permanent fixture housing, making the conversion process as simple as replacing a traditional fluorescent bulb while achieving LED lifespan benefits
Solution Approach 2:
The lamp design enables self-service installation by incorporating user-friendly features such as standard tombstone connectors that require no specialized tools or training, and an integrated enclosure that simplifies handling and installation. This allows end-users to perform the conversion themselves without professional installer involvement, reducing both cost and time
3Ease of operation
If an optically transmissive enclosure with integrated support structures is used, then ease of installation is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functional components are merged into a single integrated enclosure structure: the optically transmissive housing, LED mounting support structures, thermal management features, and structural reinforcement elements are all combined into one piece. This consolidation simplifies installation by reducing the number of separate parts to assemble, while the manufacturing complexity is managed through design for manufacturing considerations in the integrated structure
4Temperature
If a thermally conductive LED board is used, then heat dissipation efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The thermal management function is merged with the electrical circuit board by using a thermally conductive PCB that simultaneously serves as both the electrical pathway for LED current and the heat dissipation substrate. This eliminates the need for separate thermal interface materials or additional heat sinking components, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining effective heat transfer from the LED chips to the enclosure
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
Enables quick and cost-effective conversion of traditional fluorescent lights to LED-based systems, maintaining similar light distribution patterns and reducing installation complexity while ensuring efficient heat management.
Implementation Method 1
At least one LED is in the enclosure and is operable to emit light through the enclosure when energized through an electrical path
Implementation Method 2
The optical material may diffuse light emitted by the at least one LED
Implementation Method 3
The LED board may comprise a thermally conductive material
Data Source
AI summary
An LED lamp includes an elongated at least partially optically transmissive enclosure having a first end and a second end. LEDs are located in the enclosure and are operable to emit light through the enclosure when energized through an electrical path. A first pair of pins are mounted to the first end of the enclosure and a second pair of pins are mounted to the second end of the enclosure, the pins being in the electrical path. The LEDs are mounted on an LED board. A support structure for supporting the LED board is formed as one-piece with the enclosure and is formed of an optical material.