Modular LED Lighting Apparatus with Elastic Locking Coupling

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing lighting apparatuses using LED modules face challenges in easy and secure connection between adjoining units, as current solutions do not provide a reliable and efficient method for coupling multiple modules together.

Innovation Solution

A lighting apparatus design featuring a substrate with a light emitting element, electrode pad, and connection terminal, housed within a unit with a coupling mechanism that includes lateral projections and locking ledges/grooves, allowing for vertical insertion and secure connection with other units, utilizing elasticity to facilitate easy and stable coupling.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional bar type LED modules are used for lighting, then energy efficiency and lifespan are improved, but connection ease and security between adjoining modules deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovelifespanVSAvoidconnection ease
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The lighting system is divided into modular bar-type LED modules that can be independently connected and disconnected. Each module contains complete functional elements (LEDs, driver circuitry, housing) allowing for easy replacement and reconfiguration while maintaining reliable connections through standardized coupling units with locking mechanisms

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The coupling unit incorporates an elastic component that enables dynamic connection and disconnection of modules. The elastic element provides temporary deformation during insertion/removal operations, then returns to original position to maintain secure electrical and mechanical connections, facilitating easy operation without compromising connection reliability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Use of energy by moving object

If conventional bar type LED modules are used for lighting, then energy efficiency is improved, but connection security between adjoining modules deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenergy power consumptionVSAvoidconnection security
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The lighting system is divided into modular bar-type LED modules that can be independently connected and disconnected. Each module contains complete functional elements (LEDs, driver circuitry, housing) allowing for easy replacement and reconfiguration while maintaining reliable connections through standardized coupling units with locking mechanisms

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The coupling unit incorporates an elastic component that absorbs mechanical stress and provides cushioning during connection operations. This elastic element prevents damage to electrical contacts and structural components during insertion and removal, ensuring long-term connection security while maintaining energy efficiency

Inventive Principle:
Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

3Area of stationary object

If adjoining bar type LED modules are connected, then lighting coverage is improved, but connection complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelighting coverageVSAvoidconnection complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The coupling unit serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides electrical connection between modules, mechanical support for the bar structure, alignment guidance during installation, and secure locking to prevent disconnection. This multi-functionality in a single integrated component reduces overall connection complexity while enabling extensive lighting coverage through modular expansion

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

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 easy and secure connection between adjoining lighting apparatuses through vertical insertion and locking mechanisms, ensuring reliable electrical contact and stable assembly, enhancing the usability and reliability of LED-based lighting systems.

Implementation Method 1

an elasticity-providing groove formed on each of the lateral projections to provide elasticity to the lateral projections

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentEP2444716B8Lighting apparatus
Publication Date: 2015.07.29 KH FEELUX CO LTD

AI summary

A lighting apparatus (100) is configured to expose one end of a substrate (111) in which an electrode pad (115) is formed, and to combine a coupling unit (140) in which a locking ledge (145) is formed. The other end of the substrate (111) is placed atop one end of another lighting apparatus at which an electrode pad is exposed, and the locking ledge of the lighting apparatus is locked into a locking groove (119) of the another lighting apparatus.