LED Track Element Integrating Power and Data Transmission
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing track lighting systems require separate fixtures for LED lighting, power, and data transmission, which can complicate installation and configuration, and do not seamlessly integrate with standard track sections for power and data distribution.
Innovation Solution
A novel LED luminaire designed as a standard track section with integrated LED elements on a printed circuit board, capable of receiving power through an electrical harness and serving as a data bus, allowing it to be inserted into and function as part of the track system, including power and data transmission through copper traces, and featuring a snap-in optic element for efficient light redirection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate fixtures are used for LED lighting, power, and data transmission, then each function can be independently optimized, but the installation and configuration become complicated and do not seamlessly integrate with standard track sections
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines LED lighting, power transmission, and data transmission functions into a single integrated track element. The aluminum track section incorporates embedded conductors for power and data, along with mounted LED modules, eliminating the need for separate fixtures and reducing installation complexity while maintaining functional reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The track element is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support as a track section, transmits electrical power through embedded conductors, transmits data signals through additional conductors, and delivers LED illumination. This multi-functionality allows seamless integration with standard track systems while simplifying overall system configuration
2Illumination intensity
If LED elements are mounted on a printed circuit board extending over the entire track length, then continuous linear lighting is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The LED lighting system is segmented into multiple discrete LED modules mounted at intervals along the track section rather than a continuous circuit board. Each module is independently mounted on the aluminum track, providing continuous linear lighting while simplifying the overall device complexity by avoiding a full-length printed circuit board
Solution Approach 2:
The aluminum track section itself serves as an intermediary structure that mounts and positions LED modules along its length. The track's physical structure and embedded conductors provide the framework for mounting LED elements, eliminating the need for a separate printed circuit board to serve as the mounting and electrical connection medium
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 seamless integration of LED lighting, power, and data transmission within the track system, simplifying installation and configuration while maintaining the appearance and functionality of standard track sections, allowing for flexible and efficient power and data distribution.
Implementation Method 1
A LED luminaire according to the invention may comprise a series of LED elements mounted on an elongated printed circuit board
Implementation Method 2
The optic element is provided with internal walls extending upward and inward from each side toward the LED elements and has reflective surfaces to redirect lateral light in a downward direction
Data Source
AI summary
An LED luminaire for a track lighting system, that takes the form of a track section rather than a more customary separate device attached to a track section. The new luminaire has an elongated, extruded housing configured to correspond to the exterior of standard track sections to visually blend in with the overall track system. A circuit board, mounting a plurality of longitudinally aligned LED elements, extends for the full length of the housing, providing downward illumination through an optic member closing the bottom of the housing. The LED housing has a plug-in type connection to an adjacent track section providing physical alignment, electrical power and data functions. Successive luminaires can be connected together, and the new luminaires can be connected to additional standard track sections. The new luminaires can be installed throughout an overall track lighting system, substantially without limitation as to number and/or order.