LED Lamp Retrofit Base with Snap-Fit Connector
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Solution Overview
Problem
The conversion from traditional fluorescent lighting systems to LED-based systems is often time-consuming and expensive, requiring specialized tools and equipment, and existing solutions either necessitate replacing the entire fixture or significant modifications to the troffer and electrical system.
Innovation Solution
A retrofit solution that involves an LED lamp with a planar base that covers the wire way, using a snap-fit connector to secure the base to the troffer housing without tools, allowing for easy installation and removal, and a lens that diffuses light uniformly across the LEDs to maintain a consistent light pattern.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If traditional fluorescent lighting systems are converted to LED-based systems using existing solutions, then lighting efficiency is improved, but installation complexity and cost increase due to requiring specialized tools and equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The LED lighting system is divided into separate modular components: an LED module with LEDs mounted on a circuit board, a separate troffer housing, and distinct mounting hardware. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies installation by enabling step-by-step assembly without requiring specialized tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The troffer housing serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for the LED module, contains the electrical wiring and power supply, offers thermal management through heat sinks, and enables easy installation and removal through standardized mounting interfaces. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components and tools.
2Use of energy by moving object
If existing fluorescent fixtures are modified to accommodate LED systems, then energy consumption is reduced, but device complexity increases due to significant modifications required
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of modifying existing fluorescent fixtures to accommodate LED components, the invention inverts the approach by designing a complete LED lighting system that fits into the standard troffer housing form factor. This allows direct replacement of fluorescent fixtures with LED equivalents without requiring modifications to the housing or electrical system.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes key parameters of the lighting system by using LED technology with different electrical characteristics (lower voltage, different current requirements, different thermal properties) while maintaining compatibility with standard troffer housings through adapted mounting interfaces and integrated power supplies.
3Stability of the object's composition
If LED modules are securely mounted in troffer housing, then structural stability is improved, but ease of maintenance deteriorates due to difficult removal
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system uses dynamic elements such as spring-loaded clips and deformable mounting tabs that provide secure holding force during normal operation but allow easy release when installation or removal force is applied. This enables the mounting structure to transition between a stable secured state and an easily removable state.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces intermediary mounting components such as separate mounting brackets, snap-fit connectors, and removable fasteners that mediate between the LED module and the troffer housing. These intermediaries provide secure mechanical attachment during operation while enabling tool-free or simple tool-assisted removal for maintenance.
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 troffer lights to LED-based systems using existing maintenance skills and tools, without the need for specialized equipment, ensuring seamless integration and uniform light distribution.
Implementation Method 1
The lens may diffuse and mix light from the plurality of LEDs
Data Source
AI summary
A lamp comprises a LED lamp comprising a base. A plurality of LEDs are attached to a first side of the base. A lens covers the plurality of LEDs. A power supply provides power to the LEDs. A first electrical connector provides power to the power supply. A troffer housing comprises a wire way for receiving the power supply. A second electrical conductor is adapted to be connected to a source of power. The base is secured to the troffer housing where the power supply is located in the wire way and the first electrical conductor is connected to the second electrical conductor.