LED Tube Light Circuit Isolation for Shock Hazard Reduction

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Solution Overview

Problem

LED-based replacement lights for fluorescent tube fixtures pose a shock hazard when installed one end at a time, as they create a complete electrical circuit that can lead to electrical contact and shock if the pins at one end are touched during installation.

Innovation Solution

The LED-based replacement light design establishes a complete electrical circuit through some or all of the LEDs from only one end, electrically isolating the pins on one end from the pins on the other end, with the pins at one end serving only as a mechanical anchor and not being in circuit with the opposite end, and optionally dividing electrical components into separate groups with their own end connectors.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If LED-based replacement light is installed with complete electrical circuit from both ends, then the light can be powered and function properly, but shock hazard increases during installation

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelight functionalityVSAvoidshock hazard

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The electrical circuit is segmented into two independent parts: one circuit starting from the first pin and another circuit starting from the second pin. These circuits are electrically isolated from each other, so completing one circuit does not create a path to the other end of the light, thereby eliminating shock hazard while maintaining functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

A non-conductive element (such as a plastic cover or insulating barrier) is introduced between the two ends of the light to prevent electrical connection. This intermediary blocks the electrical path between the pins at opposite ends, ensuring that even if both ends are connected to power, no shock can occur during installation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If pins at both ends are connected in circuit, then complete electrical path is established, but installation safety is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinstallation processVSAvoidelectrical contact

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The electrical connection is divided into separate segments at each end. The first pin connects to one circuit path while the second pin connects to a separate, isolated circuit path. This segmentation allows installation without creating a continuous electrical path, maintaining ease of installation while preventing electrical contact.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The potential harm of having pins at both ends connected is converted into a benefit by using the non-conductive element to intentionally break the electrical path. This design choice transforms the possible shock hazard into a safety feature, allowing installers to work without fear of electrical contact while still enabling proper lighting function.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

Data Source

PatentUS8870415B2LED fluorescent tube replacement light with reduced shock hazard

Publication Date: 2014.10.28 ILUMISYS INC

AI summary

An LED-based tube light suitable for replacing a conventional 48-inch fluorescent tube light includes LEDs connected into a complete illumination circuit that runs exclusively through connectors at one end of the light. In an alternative embodiment, two LED groups are used, each group being connected exclusively to its own set of end connectors.