Light Source Plate Connector with Elastic Clip for Stable Connection

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing lighting systems face challenges in efficiently connecting and securing light source plates to prevent deformation and ensure stable electrical conductivity, while also managing heat dissipation and reducing manufacturing costs.

Innovation Solution

A lighting apparatus with a driver, light source connector, and light source plate, where the connector features a pressing block, elastic clip, wire, and fastener to securely connect the light source plate without applying direct force, and includes a heat sink for heat dissipation, using reflow and wave soldering to form modules that reduce assembly complexity and costs.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If direct force is applied to secure the light source plate, then the connection stability is improved, but the light source plate deforms

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection stabilityVSAvoidlight source plate deformation

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a connector as an intermediary component between the mounting structure and the light source plate. This connector features a clamping structure with elastic clips that indirectly secure the light source plate without applying concentrated direct force, thereby preventing deformation while maintaining connection stability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The connector employs elastic clips made of flexible material that can deform elastically to clamp the light source plate. This flexibility allows the connector to adapt to the light source plate's shape and secure it firmly without applying excessive localized stress that would cause deformation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

2Reliability

If complex assembly processes are used to ensure stable electrical connections, then the electrical conductivity is improved, but the manufacturing cost and assembly time increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveelectrical connection stabilityVSAvoidassembly efficiency

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the electrical connection function with the mechanical clamping function into a single integrated connector component. The connector simultaneously provides structural support, mechanical clamping, and electrical connection through integrated conductive elements, eliminating the need for separate wiring and connection steps.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The connector is pre-assembled with integrated electrical contacts and clamping structures before installation. This preliminary preparation ensures that electrical connections are established automatically during the clamping process, eliminating the need for post-assembly electrical wiring and reducing assembly complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Stability of the object's composition

If traditional fastening methods are used to secure the light source plate, then the structural stability is improved, but the elastic clip lifespan is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructural stabilityVSAvoidelastic clip lifespan

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSDuration of action of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The connector employs dynamic elastic clips that can flex and deform within their elastic limit during assembly and operation. This dynamic behavior allows the clips to absorb stress and maintain clamping force without permanent deformation, extending their service life while ensuring structural stability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The elastic clips are designed with pre-compression and cushioning features that absorb assembly stresses and operational vibrations before they can cause damage. This beforehand cushioning protects the clips from excessive stress and fatigue, extending their lifespan while maintaining secure clamping.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

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

The solution enhances the lifespan of the elastic clip, prevents deformation of the light source plate, ensures stable electrical connections, and improves productivity by simplifying assembly and reducing defective rates, while also saving on molding costs.

Implementation Method 1

the bottom portion of the light source connector is a fixing unit made of a heat sink for heat dissipation

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectThermal conduction: Conduction (thermal)

Implementation Method 2

heat sink for heat dissipation

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectConvection: Convection

Implementation Method 3

The top portion of the light source connector includes a pressing block, an elastic clip

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 4

The driver is used for converting an external power to a driving current

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS11175027B2Lighting apparatus with light source plate secured between two connector portions

Publication Date: 2021.11.16 LEELEDS LIGHTING XIAMEN

AI summary

A lighting apparatus includes a driver configured to convert external power to a driving current, a light source connector with top and bottom portions separated by a distance, and a light source provided on a light source plate including a conductive patch. The light source plate is held between the top portion and the bottom portion, such that the driving current is supplied to the light source plate by the conductive path routed via the light source connector.