Modular Indicator With Internal Conductors To Reduce Shadows
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular indicator assemblies face constraints in configuring indicator modules to be powered by any signal line regardless of position and suffer from conductor shadows affecting light transmission due to conductor placement near or inside the housing wall.
Innovation Solution
The solution involves a modular design with flexible electrodes and a switch module that allows indicator modules to be configured logically regardless of physical position, and positions conductors internally to reduce shadows from light sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conductors are placed near or inside the housing wall for electrical connection, then electrical connectivity is achieved, but conductor shadows affect light transmission
Solution Approach 1:
The patent relocates conductors from the radial dimension (near housing wall) to the axial dimension (internal to module), running them along the longitudinal axis through dedicated channels. This dimensional shift eliminates shadowing of the light-emitting surface while maintaining electrical connectivity between stacked modules.
2Ease of manufacture
If angular position between adjacent modules is fixed for electrical connection, then module assembly is simplified, but flexibility in configuring indicator modules is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universal electrical connectors with multiple contact points that can accommodate any rotational orientation. Each module's connector is designed to establish electrical connections regardless of the angular position of adjacent modules, enabling flexible configuration while maintaining assembly simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces rotational flexibility to the module assembly, allowing modules to be positioned at variable angular orientations. The electrical connector design accommodates this dynamic positioning, enabling the system to adapt to different configuration requirements while maintaining reliable electrical connections.
3Reliability
If multiple conductors run through modules for electrical signaling, then power and control signals are transmitted, but conductor placement creates shadows from light sources
Solution Approach 1:
The patent relocates multiple conductors from the radial dimension (near housing wall) to the axial dimension (internal to module), running them along the longitudinal axis through dedicated channels. This dimensional shift eliminates shadowing of the light-emitting surface while maintaining signal transmission capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent nests conductors within internal channels and structural features of the module housing, embedding them within the module's internal volume. This nesting arrangement protects conductors, organizes them efficiently, and prevents them from interfering with light transmission through the housing wall.
Data Source
Figure 1(a)~1(b)
Figure 2
Figure 3(a)~3(b)
AI summary
An indicator module in one example has a mounting portion to removably attach the module to another module or base. The indicator module also has a first set of electrodes disposed to be in contact with respective electrodes in the attached module or base. The indicator module further includes an indicator circuit, and a switch module configurable to selectively connect the indicator circuit to one of the electrodes in the indicator module. The indicator module can further include a second set of electrodes connected respectively to the first set of electrodes by conductors. The two sets of electrodes are located at respective ends of the module attach to another module at each end. In visual indicator modules, the conductors can be disposed in a more interior region of the module as compared to the visual indicator elements such as LEDs, which can be distributed near the periphery of the module.