LED Lamp Socket Contact Configuration for Heat Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lamp sockets for LEDs face premature aging due to uneven distribution of contact pressure between the heat conducting element and the cooling element, which affects heat transfer and LED lifespan.
Innovation Solution
The design ensures an even distribution of contact pressure by configuring the socket and base contacts such that the contact forces do not oppose the pressing force, using arrangements like contact clamps, flat blade contacts, and specific orientations of contact forces to maintain the effective contact pressure without negative influences.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If contact pressure is increased to improve heat transfer, then heat transfer efficiency is improved, but contact pressure distribution becomes uneven causing premature LED aging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating different contact pressure zones through specifically designed contact surfaces. The socket contact and base contact are configured with varying surface geometries that generate higher contact pressure at critical heat transfer locations while maintaining lower pressure at LED-sensitive areas. This localized differentiation allows optimal heat transfer where needed without subjecting the LED to excessive or uneven stress, thereby resolving the contradiction between heat transfer efficiency and LED reliability.
2Reliability
If contact force is applied to ensure electrical connection, then electrical connectivity is ensured, but opposing forces reduce effective contact pressure on heat transfer surface
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the contact system into distinct functional zones: electrical contact surfaces and thermal contact surfaces. The socket and base are designed with separate contact areas where electrical contacts (pins or blades) engage independently from the thermal interface between heat conducting element and cooling element. This segmentation allows electrical connection forces to be applied without creating opposing forces that would reduce thermal contact pressure, as the two contact systems operate in different spatial and mechanical domains.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent resolves the force conflict by transitioning to another dimension through spatial separation of contact forces. The electrical contact forces act in one dimension (contacting electrical terminals), while the thermal contact pressure is maintained in a different dimension (contact between heat conducting element and cooling element). By orienting contacts such that electrical connection forces are perpendicular or independent of the thermal contact pressure direction, the patent eliminates opposing force components, allowing both electrical connectivity and heat transfer efficiency to be optimized simultaneously.
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 configuration enhances heat transfer efficiency and prolongs the lifespan of LEDs by ensuring optimal contact pressure distribution between the heat conducting element and the cooling element.
Implementation Method 1
The cooling element on a socket side is connected with the heat conducting element on a base side through a contact pressure that promotes heat transfer
Data Source
AI summary
A lamp socket for supporting a light source provided with an LED, the lamp socket including a cooling element; a socket housing which includes socket contacts for electrically connecting the light source; and a lamp base which supports an LED connected to a heat conducting element and is insertable in the socket housing and includes base contacts which are connectable with the socket contacts through a contact force for providing power to the LED, wherein the cooling element on the socket side is connected with the heat conducting element on the base side with a contact pressure that promotes heat transfer, wherein the contact pressure is provided through a pressing force in order for the cooling element to absorb heat generated by the LED, wherein the electric contact between the socket contacts and the base contacts is provided so that it does not provide forces opposite to the pressing force.