Lighting Device Position-Retaining Element for Trim Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current lighting devices face challenges in simplified installation and retrofitting, with limited flexibility in positioning and secure holding of trim elements, particularly in various structural fixtures.
Innovation Solution
A lighting device design featuring a first element with an electrical connector, a second element containing a light source, and a position-retaining element that allows the second element to be moved between multiple positions while maintaining electrical connection, using components like spring-loaded clips, telescoping elements, or ratcheting mechanisms for secure positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If spring-loaded arms are used to hold the trim element in position, then the trim element can be securely held with friction, but the installation and retrofitting process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The lighting device is divided into separate modular components: a fixture housing with electrical connector, a trim element with engagement element, and spring-loaded retainer clips. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies installation by enabling separate handling and assembly of components.
Solution Approach 2:
Spring-loaded retainer clips serve as intermediary elements between the fixture housing and trim element. These clips provide the securing function without requiring direct complex mechanical engagement between the main components, simplifying the overall assembly process while maintaining secure holding.
2Reliability
If the trim element is held in a fixed position relative to the cylindrical outer structure, then secure mounting is achieved, but flexibility in positioning is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer clips incorporate spring-loaded arms that can dynamically adjust their position and apply variable friction force. This allows the trim element to be securely held at multiple positions along the cylindrical outer structure, providing both mounting security and positioning flexibility through the elastic deformation of the spring arms.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple positioning options are provided for the light source, then installation flexibility is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-loaded retainer clips automatically engage with the engagement element on the trim element when the light source is inserted. The spring arms self-adjust to the correct engagement position and provide securing force without requiring additional adjustment mechanisms, buttons, or complex controls, thus providing multiple positioning options without proportionally increasing device complexity.
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
This design enhances installation flexibility and security by allowing the light source to be positioned in multiple configurations without compromising electrical connectivity, simplifying the installation process and ensuring stable placement across different structural types.
Implementation Method 1
the first and second spring loaded arms being spring biased apart from each other into contact with opposite sides of the engagement element, creating friction which holds the trim element in position
Implementation Method 2
creating friction which holds the trim element in position relative to the cylindrical outer structure
Data Source
AI summary
A lighting device comprising a first element that comprises an electrical connector, a second element that comprises at least a first light source, and a position-retaining element (or means) that holds the second element in any of at least two positions relative to the first element. Also, a lighting device comprising a first element that comprises an electrical connector, a second element that comprises at least a first trim element, and a position-retaining element (or means) that holds the second element in any of at least two positions relative to the first element. The electrical connector is electrically connected to at least a first light source, and the second element is movable relative to the first element among the positions while maintaining electrical connection between the electrical connector and at least the first light source.