Lighting Module Secures Carrier End Parts

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

The existing lighting systems with elongate carrier elements require additional work steps and specialized fastening means to attach end parts, which complicates the assembly process and can only be done by trained professionals due to safety concerns with exposed LEDs.

Innovation Solution

Designing the end parts to be loosely arranged on the carrier element, where they are automatically fixed by the detachable lighting modules, eliminating the need for separate fastening means and simplifying the attachment process.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If special end pieces are provided for the carrier element and these are placed on and fixed with the help of a screw connection, then the end parts are securely attached, but the assembly process becomes more complex and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecure attachment of end partsVSAvoidassembly process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the function of fixing end parts with the function of mounting light modules. The light modules serve dual purposes: they are mounted on the carrier element and simultaneously secure the end parts through integrated fastening mechanisms, eliminating the need for separate screw connections

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent extracts the fastening function from the end parts and transfers it to the light modules. Instead of the end parts having their own fastening means, the light modules are designed to perform the fastening function, simplifying the end parts to only their closing function

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

2Reliability

If additional fastening means are used to attach end parts to the carrier element, then the end parts are securely fixed, but the number of work steps and required tools increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecure fixation of end partsVSAvoidassembly time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the end part attachment operation with the light module mounting operation into a single work step. By integrating the fastening function into the light module design, both operations are completed simultaneously, reducing assembly time and eliminating the need for additional tools

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The light modules perform the self-service function of securing the end parts during their own installation process. The fastening means are designed so that the act of mounting the light module automatically secures the end parts without requiring separate intervention

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Ease of operation

If LEDs are arranged on freely accessible conductor tracks, then electrical connection is simplified, but the risk of electric shock and ESD damage increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectrical connection simplicityVSAvoidrisk of electric shock and ESD damage
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent nests the LEDs and conductor tracks within the light module housing, creating a nested structure where the sensitive electrical components are protected inside the module while maintaining simplified electrical connection through integrated contacts

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The light module serves as an intermediary between the external environment and the sensitive LED components. It provides mechanical and electrical interface functions while protecting the LEDs from direct exposure to external influences like static discharge and electric shock

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentEP3114400B1Light fixture or lighting assembly comprising an elongated carrier element and detachably securable lighting module
Publication Date: 2018.05.09 ZUMTOBEL LIGHTING GMBH
  • EP3114400B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3114400B1 patent drawingFigure 3~6
  • EP3114400B1 patent drawingFigure 7~8

AI summary

The invention relates to a light fixture (1) or a lighting assembly comprising an elongated carrier element (5), at least one lighting module (20), which can be detachably secured to the carrier element (5), and end face parts (15) for the carrier element (5). Each of said end face parts can be arranged on one end region of the carrier element (5) and the end face parts (15) are fixed in position by the at least one lighting module (20) that is secured to the carrier element (5).