Modular LED Tube Lighting with Quarter-Turn Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing LED lighting systems are complex and expensive to set up, require precise voltage and current matching, and lack easy connectivity and expandability for varying light needs.
Innovation Solution
A pre-wired LED tube with a circular housing, heat sink, and quarter turn locking system for easy connection and expansion, along with plug connectors for power sourcing, ensuring low power consumption and adaptable light distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If LEDs are wired together to provide sufficient illumination, then the lighting output is improved, but the wiring complexity and system cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The lighting system is divided into modular LED tube segments that can be independently connected. Each tube contains pre-wired LED arrays with integrated circuitry, eliminating the need for complex custom wiring while maintaining high illumination output through modular assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The LED tubes are designed with universal connectors and standardized interfaces that allow them to be connected in various configurations (series, parallel, or combinations) to achieve different illumination levels. The tubes can function independently or in combination, providing flexibility without increasing wiring complexity.
2Reliability
If LED voltage and current are precisely controlled, then the LED reliability is improved, but the power supply system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The voltage regulation, current control, and power distribution functions are merged into integrated circuit boards that are built into each LED tube. This consolidation eliminates the need for external complex power supply systems while ensuring precise electrical control for LED reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
Each LED tube contains self-contained power management circuitry that automatically regulates voltage and current without requiring external control systems. The tubes can be connected in various configurations and will self-adjust their electrical characteristics, simplifying the overall power supply system.
3Illumination intensity
If LED tubes are designed for specific applications, then the lighting performance is improved, but the adaptability to different applications decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The LED tubes are designed with universal mechanical and electrical interfaces that allow them to be used in multiple applications and configurations. The tubes can be connected in series for high voltage applications, in parallel for low voltage applications, or in combinations thereof, maintaining optimal performance across different use cases.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows dynamic reconfiguration of LED tube connections to adapt to different lighting requirements. Users can add or remove tubes, change connection configurations, and adjust overall system output without redesigning the entire system, providing both optimized performance and versatility.
4Area of stationary object
If multiple LED tubes are connected to extend lighting coverage, then the illuminated area is improved, but the connection complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lighting system is segmented into standardized tube modules that can be easily connected in sequence. Each tube has identical connection interfaces at both ends, allowing for simple daisy-chaining to extend illuminated area without increasing connection complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple LED tubes are merged into a single continuous lighting system through standardized connectors that combine electrical and mechanical functions. The connectors allow tubes to be quickly attached and detached without complex wiring operations, enabling easy system expansion.
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
Facilitates easy assembly, expansion, and power management of LED lighting systems, reducing complexity and cost while ensuring efficient and adaptable illumination.
Implementation Method 1
a heat sink
Implementation Method 2
a heat sink
Implementation Method 3
a plurality of LEDs
Implementation Method 4
Light emitting diode (LED) lights
Data Source
AI summary
An LED tube is provided for providing general illumination. The LED tube includes a tubular housing having a clear shield and a heat sink opposite the clear shield. A strip including LED lights, circuitry, and electrical hubs are positioned on the backside of the heat sink under the shield. The housing also includes first and second ends that include portions of a quarter turn locking system to allow multiple housings to be attached to one another for a longer string of lighting. A power source for powering the LED lights, and an end cap may also be attached to the first and second ends of the housing by the quarter turn locking system. The housing or housings may be connected to a wall or the like by the use of one or more clip mounts.