Magnet-Secured LED Module Fixture with External Driver

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing LED systems face challenges in providing a compact, efficient, and cost-effective solution for illumination with flexible installation and thermal management, while also addressing issues of RF interference and the need for easy component replacement.

Innovation Solution

A LED fixture design featuring a shell with a socket and a module secured by magnets, incorporating a power aperture and poke-in connector for flexible installation, AC to DC power conversion, and efficient thermal management through a heat sink, allowing for compact size and high lumens output.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If AC to DC power conversion circuitry is integrated into the LED bulb, then the LED can operate independently, but RF interference is generated and performance is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveindependent operation capabilityVSAvoidRF interference
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the LED system into separate functional modules: the LED bulb contains only the LED array and basic mounting structure, while the AC to DC power conversion is performed externally by a driver unit. This segmentation eliminates RF interference from the bulb itself while maintaining independent operation capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Reliability

If the LED is integrated into the fixture, then superior performance is achieved, but the entire fixture must be removed for replacement

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveperformance qualityVSAvoidLED replacement difficulty
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of repair

Solution Approach 1:

The patent separates the LED array from the fixture housing by using a removable module design. The LED array is mounted on a separate module that can be easily detached and replaced, while the fixture housing remains intact. This allows high-performance LED integration while maintaining ease of repair through simple module replacement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The LED array is nested within a removable module that fits inside the fixture housing. This nested structure allows the LED module to be easily inserted and removed without affecting the fixture housing, enabling simple maintenance while maintaining integrated performance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

3Ease of repair

If a separable interface is provided, then component replacement is easier, but the housing size increases and thermal performance suffers

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecomponent replaceabilityVSAvoidhousing size
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of repairVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses a modular design where the LED array is separated into a compact removable module. This segmentation allows for easy replacement while keeping each module compact, avoiding the need for oversized housing to accommodate replacement mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

4Ease of repair

If a separable interface is provided, then component replacement is easier, but thermal performance deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecomponent replaceabilityVSAvoidthermal performance
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of repairVSTemperature

Solution Approach 1:

The patent separates thermal management into the fixture housing (which contains the heat sink) and the removable LED module. The module includes thermal interface elements that maintain efficient heat transfer to the housing heat sink even during repeated insertion and removal cycles, preserving thermal performance while enabling easy replacement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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 solution provides a flexible, efficient, and cost-effective LED system with improved thermal performance and touch-safe operation, enabling easy installation and replacement while maintaining high lumens output and efficient thermal energy transfer.

Implementation Method 1

a first and a second ferrite plate positioned on opposite sides of the socket

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFerromagnetism: Ferromagnetism

Implementation Method 2

The module can be secured to the socket with magnets

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetism: Magnetism

Implementation Method 3

efficient thermal management through a heat sink, allowing for compact size and high lumens output

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectThermal conduction: Conduction (thermal)

Data Source

PatentEP3111136B1Fixture and LED system with same
Publication Date: 2019.05.29 MOLEX INC
  • EP3111136B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3111136B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3111136B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A LED system is disclosed that includes a fixture with a module mounted in the fixture. The fixture includes a bottom wall with a socket. The module mounts in the socket and is biased into a mated condition with two magnets. The socket includes pads that are engaged by terminals that are supported by the module. A power supply can be mounted on a back side of the fixture.