Modular Decor Assembly With Magnetic Power Rail Reconfiguration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Decorative lighting units are typically integrated and static, lacking the ability to adjust their utility function after manufacture and installation, limiting their versatility.
Innovation Solution
A modular decor apparatus comprising a base, an elongated charging member with a coiled current-carrying conductor, and removably attachable modular units powered by magnetic connection, allowing for translational and rotational movement of units along the charging member.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If decorative lighting units are integrated and static, then manufacturing and installation are simplified, but the utility function cannot be adjusted after manufacture and installation, reducing versatility
Solution Approach 1:
The decorative lighting unit is divided into separate functional modules (light sources, decorations, control units) that can be independently selected and combined. Each module can be attached or detached from the base unit, allowing the utility function to be adjusted by changing which modules are present, while maintaining a simple base structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The base unit is designed with universal attachment mechanisms that can accommodate multiple types of functional modules. A single base unit can support various light sources (LED strips, bulbs), different decorative elements, and control units, allowing one device to perform multiple functions depending on module configuration.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple functional modules are integrated into a single unit, then the device provides comprehensive functionality, but the device cannot be adjusted or modified after installation
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from a static integrated design to a dynamic reconfigurable design. Modules can be attached or detached from the base unit, allowing the functional configuration to change over time. This enables users to adjust the utility purpose by adding or removing modules without replacing the entire device.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple functional modules are pre-designed and pre-assembled with standardized attachment mechanisms, so that when installation is needed, users can simply attach the desired modules to the base unit without complex assembly procedures. This preliminary preparation makes post-installation adjustment easy and intuitive.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a modular design with removably coupled units is implemented, then flexibility and adjustability are improved, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
Functional modules are designed to attach to or nest within the base unit structure. The modules can be coupled to external surfaces of the base or inserted into designated slots, creating a compact nested arrangement when modules are attached, rather than requiring separate distributed components.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple functional elements (power supply, control circuitry, attachment mechanisms) are merged into integrated base units that provide common support for various modules. This combining of shared functions into the base reduces the overall complexity compared to having separate complete units for each function.
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
Enables flexible and adjustable functionality by allowing modular units to be easily attached, detached, rotated, and translated, providing a variety of functions such as lighting, sound, and charging, all powered through a single electrical connection.
Implementation Method 1
at least one modular powered unit removably coupled to the elongated charging member by a magnetic force
Data Source
AI summary
A modular decor apparatus includes a base, an elongated charging member, and at least one modular powered unit removably coupled to the elongated charging member by a magnetic force. The elongated charging member has a first end connected to the base and a second end. The elongated charging member extends from the base from the first end to the second end, and comprises at least one shaft and a current carrying conductor coiled around the at least one shaft. The current carrying conductor generates an electrical signal from a power source. The at least one modular powered unit is capable of receiving the electrical signal from the elongated charging unit to power the at least one modular powered unit. The at least one modular powered unit can be a task light, an ambient light, a ring light, a speaker, and/or a charging port, among other examples.