Modular Lampshade Ring Assembly with Detachable Connectors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current lampshade ring assemblies are limited in modularity, ease of manufacture, and cost, necessitating a more versatile and cost-effective solution for attaching lampshades to light fixtures.
Innovation Solution
A lampshade ring assembly comprising a mounting hub, an outer ring, and connectors that can be detachably coupled to form a modular assembly, allowing for easy attachment to lampshades and light fixtures, with components fabricated using additive manufacturing or traditional methods for enhanced flexibility and customization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If traditional metal wire ring assemblies are used, then structural strength is maintained, but modularity and ease of manufacture are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The ring assembly is divided into separate modular components including a mounting hub, outer ring, and multiple connectors. Each component can be manufactured independently using various methods (additive manufacturing, traditional manufacturing), then assembled together. This segmentation enables flexible manufacturing choices and simplifies production while maintaining structural integrity through the connection of modular parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting hub and outer ring serve multiple functions: the mounting hub provides attachment to light fixtures while the outer ring provides attachment to lampshades. The connectors serve dual purposes of joining these components while maintaining detachable connections. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized components, simplifying the overall device while enhancing versatility.
2Ease of manufacture
If traditional metal wire ring assemblies are used, then structural strength is maintained, but cost is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent allows for parameter changes in material selection and manufacturing methods. Components can be manufactured using additive manufacturing with various materials (plastics, metals, composites) or traditional manufacturing methods. The connector design enables adjustable connection strengths through different engagement mechanisms (snap-fit, screw, clamp), allowing optimization of both cost and structural strength based on specific application requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular connector design allows for cost-effective replacement of individual components. If a connector wears or breaks, only that specific connector needs replacement rather than the entire ring assembly. This modular approach reduces overall system cost while maintaining adequate structural strength through properly designed connection interfaces.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional metal wire ring assemblies are used, then assembly is simplified, but adaptability to different configurations is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The ring assembly incorporates detachable connections that allow dynamic reconfiguration. Connectors can be easily attached and detached from the mounting hub and outer ring, enabling the assembly to be adapted to different lampshade and light fixture configurations. This dynamic capability provides versatility while maintaining simple assembly procedures through straightforward connection mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The segmented modular design with separate mounting hub, outer ring, and connectors enables adaptability to various configurations. Each component can be independently positioned and connected to accommodate different lampshade sizes, shapes, and light fixture types. The standardized interface design simplifies the assembly process while the modular nature provides extensive configurational flexibility.
Data Source
AI summary
A lampshade ring assembly, a lampshade apparatus including the lampshade ring assembly and a lampshade, and a method of assembling the same. The lampshade ring assembly may include a mounting hub having a plurality of first mounting elements arranged in a spaced apart manner, an outer ring having a plurality of second mounting elements arranged in a spaced apart manner, and a plurality of connectors each having a first end with a third mounting element and a second end with a fourth mounting element. The connectors may be detachably coupled to: (1) the mounting hub via engagement between the first mounting elements and the third mounting element; and (2) the outer ring via engagement between the second mounting elements and the fourth mounting element. The outer ring may be configured to be coupled to a lampshade and the mounting hub may be configured to be coupled to a light fixture.