Lighting Fixture Mounting System With Intermediary Frame
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods are inadequate for securely mounting LED flat panel lighting fixtures to mounting surfaces due to their design, which typically prevents the use of traditional fastening methods through the back of the fixture.
Innovation Solution
A mounting system comprising a frame with tabs that insert into slots on the lighting fixture, allowing for secure attachment to a mounting surface while maintaining access to a junction box, and a mounting kit with a harness and plate configurations for flexible and secure installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional fastening methods through the back of the fixture are used, then secure mounting is achieved, but the lens security is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
A mounting frame serves as an intermediary component between the lighting fixture and the mounting surface. The frame is secured to the mounting surface with fasteners, while the lighting fixture attaches to the frame through tabs and slots, eliminating the need to fasten through the fixture back and preserving lens security.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system is divided into separate functional components: a mounting frame for attachment to the surface, and a lighting fixture with integrated tabs for connection to the frame. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function without compromise.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a mounting frame is added to enable secure mounting, then mounting flexibility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting frame serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for mounting the fixture, offers attachment points for electrical wiring through the central opening, and enables flexible positioning on various mounting surfaces. This multi-functionality justifies the addition of the frame component.
3Reliability
If tabs are inserted into slots for secure attachment, then mounting reliability is improved, but installation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tabs are pre-formed as integral parts of the lighting fixture during manufacturing, and the slots are pre-cut in the mounting frame. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for field customization or complex assembly procedures, reducing installation time while maintaining reliable attachment.
Data Source
AI summary
Example embodiments provide lighting fixture mounting kits for mounting a flat panel lighting fixture to a mounting surface. One mounting kit comprises a mounting frame and a lighting fixture. When the mounting frame is secured to the mounting surface, a junction box is accessible therethrough. The mounting frame and lighting fixture are shaped for engagement and attachment to one another. Another mounting kit comprises a mounting plate and a lighting fixture. The mounting plate may comprise indexing tabs for alignment with corresponding indexing slots of the lighting fixture and extending outwardly from a plate portion of the mounting plate. The lighting fixture may comprise a back portion having therein one or more indexing slots for receiving an indexing tab therein. Insertion of the indexing tab into the indexing slot guides the engagement of the lighting fixture with the mounting plate.