Lighting Unit Adapter Locking Structure for Tool-Free Replacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lighting systems require complete disassembly for maintenance or replacement, involving time-consuming processes and the need for multiple tools due to permanent connections between lighting units and fastening devices.
Innovation Solution
An adapter system with a peg-shaped engagement element and a locking device that allows for releasable connection between lighting units and accessory parts, featuring a conically narrowing receiving recess and abutment regions for secure and play-free fitting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a screw connection is used to fasten the lighting unit to the fastening device, then a secure and stable connection is achieved, but the disassembly process becomes time-consuming and requires tools
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening system is divided into separate modular components: a fastening device with receiving opening, an adapter element with engagement element, and a lighting unit. This segmentation allows the lighting unit to be quickly detached from the fastening device by simply removing the adapter element, without needing to disassemble the fastening device itself or use tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter element acts as an intermediary component between the fastening device and the lighting unit. It features a receiving opening that accommodates the engagement element, creating a reversible connection mechanism. This intermediary allows for tool-free attachment and detachment while maintaining connection stability during use.
2Reliability
If the electrical lead is permanently connected to the lighting unit housing, then a reliable electrical connection is achieved, but replacement or maintenance requires complete disassembly
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical lead connection is segmented from the lighting unit housing by incorporating it into the removable adapter element. This allows the electrical connection to be maintained reliably when the adapter is attached, while enabling easy disconnection and replacement of the entire adapter assembly for maintenance or upgrades without affecting the permanent fastening device.
3Strength
If a permanent fastening device is used, then a robust connection is achieved, but replacement of lighting units requires complete disassembly and new fastening bores
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening system is segmented into a permanent fastening device and a removable adapter element. The fastening device remains permanently mounted to the ceiling or wall, providing robust structural support. The adapter element with engagement feature can be easily attached and detached, enabling quick replacement of lighting units without disturbing the permanent fastening installation or requiring new fastening bores.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening device is preliminarily installed in a permanent position on the ceiling or wall before the lighting unit is mounted. This preliminary action creates a stable base that can accommodate multiple lighting unit replacements over time through the reversible adapter connection, eliminating the need to create new fastening bores for each replacement.
4Manufacturing precision
If multiple tools are required for installation and maintenance, then precise connections are achieved, but the process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter element serves as an intermediary that provides precise geometric engagement features (receiving opening and engagement element with abutment regions) that ensure accurate alignment and positioning. This precision is achieved through the inherent geometry of the components rather than requiring complex tools, simplifying the installation and maintenance process while maintaining connection precision.
Data Source
AI summary
An adapter system for releasably connecting a lighting unit to an accessory part comprises an adapter element releasably connectable to the lighting unit, and a peg-shaped engagement element. A receiving recess is accessible from the outside through a receiving opening of the adapter element for receiving the engagement element. A locking device serves to fixate the engagement element within the receiving recess and comprises a locking element. The locking element protrudes into the receiving recess in a locking position. An end region of the locking element protrudes into a locking recess of the engagement element and fixes the engagement element in the adapter element. The receiving recess comprises a receiving abutment region conically narrowing toward the receiving recess. The engagement element comprises a corresponding abutment region, which can be brought into abutment with the conical receiving abutment region by inserting the engagement element into the receiving recess.