Low-Voltage Display Shelving With Insulated Plug-In Lighting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing display systems with integrated lighting face limitations in flexibility due to internal wiring and high voltage AC power sources, leading to complex wiring and potential electrical shock hazards.
Innovation Solution
A modular display system with insulated electrical circuitry using low voltage DC current, where non-conductive support brackets and plastic components isolate electrical elements, allowing for flexible shelf placement without metal standards and eliminating the need for step-down transformers or ballasts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If high voltage AC power sources with internal wiring are used in shelving systems, then lighting can be provided, but electrical shock hazards and complex wiring result
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the electrical power parameter from high voltage AC to low voltage DC (12-24V), fundamentally changing the electrical characteristics to eliminate shock hazards while maintaining lighting functionality. This parameter change allows the system to operate safely without metal standards or complex internal wiring.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces non-conductive plastic components as intermediaries between electrical elements and users. These plastic standards and insulation barriers act as mediators that transfer mechanical support functions while blocking electrical conduction, thereby eliminating the shock hazard pathway.
2Power
If metal standards are used to conduct electricity to shelf lights, then power delivery is achieved, but electrical shock risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter of the support standards from conductive metal to non-conductive plastic, while simultaneously changing the electrical parameter from high voltage to low voltage. This dual parameter change allows power delivery through insulated contact elements rather than through the structural standards themselves, eliminating shock risk.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the electrical conduction function from the structural support function. Instead of using metal standards that perform both support and conduction, the design separates these functions: plastic standards provide only structural support, while dedicated insulated contact elements handle electrical connection.
3Adaptability or versatility
If shelves are made removable and modular, then flexibility is improved, but electrical connections become complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the electrical connection system into separate, modular contact elements that are independent of the structural standards. Each shelf module can be independently connected to power through simple contact element engagement, allowing easy reconfiguration without complex wiring changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses non-conductive plastic contact elements as intermediaries that simplify electrical connections for modular shelves. These insulated contact points provide automatic electrical engagement when shelves are installed, eliminating the need for complex wiring while maintaining reconfigurability.
4Power
If step-down transformers or ballasts are used with high voltage systems, then voltage reduction is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the need for step-down transformers and ballasts by fundamentally changing the power source from high voltage AC to low voltage DC. This removes the entire voltage conversion subsystem, simplifying the overall system architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental electrical parameters of the power source from high voltage AC to low voltage DC, which eliminates the need for voltage conversion devices like transformers and ballasts, thereby reducing system 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
The system provides a safe and flexible lighting solution by ensuring complete insulation of electricity-bearing elements, reducing the risk of electrical shock and fire hazards while allowing for easy shelf reconfiguration without complex wiring.
Implementation Method 1
the present disclosure relates to an illuminated display system. Preferably, the display system utilizes light emitting diode (LED) lighting as part of the display system
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are display systems comprised of at least one wall panel and at least one shelf comprising a light fixture, the wall panel having two rows of parallel slots, one set of parallel slots (either on the wall panel or uprights adjacent to the wall panel), providing cooperative access by support brackets disposed on the shelf for supporting the shelf, the support brackets not carrying any of the electrical circuitry for the light fixture, one other set of parallel slots providing cooperative access for electrical contact elements disposed on the shelf to an electric source element disposed on the wall panel and providing electricity to the light fixture. Also disclosed are wall panels, shelves and lighting devices that may be used, alone or in combination, for new installations or in retrofitting existing display systems.