Modular Light Cells with Copper Spring Connectors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing light sources such as LEDs, ELs, and OLEDs face challenges in configuration, connectivity, light output, moisture susceptibility, installation ease, cost-effective manufacturing, and power efficiency, with limitations in novel sizes, shapes, and patterns, as well as short lifespan.
Innovation Solution
A multi-dimensional light source system comprising a mother cell and sister cells connected in a continuous manner without PCB motherboard, hard electrical wires, or welding, allowing placement on adhesive tape, cloth, or hard surfaces of unlimited dimensions, powered by a single source, using copper springs for flexible electrical connectivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If light sources are arranged in conventional configurations with PCB motherboards and hard electrical wires, then electrical connectivity is reliable, but device complexity and ease of installation are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The light source system is divided into multiple modular light cells, each containing its own light-emitting component and electrical connection elements. This segmentation eliminates the need for a centralized PCB motherboard and complex wiring harnesses, allowing individual cells to be independently handled and installed, thereby simplifying the overall installation process while maintaining electrical reliability through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the electrical connection functions directly into the light cell structure itself, combining what were previously separate components (light-emitting element, electrical contacts, and mounting structure) into an integrated unit. This eliminates the need for separate wiring and PCB assemblies, reducing device complexity while preserving reliable electrical connectivity
2Adaptability or versatility
If light sources are configured in fixed patterns, then manufacturing precision is improved, but adaptability is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The light cell array structure is designed to be dynamically reconfigurable, allowing the physical arrangement of light cells to be changed after manufacturing. The modular design with standardized connection interfaces enables users to reconfigure the light source into different patterns and configurations without requiring precision manufacturing for each specific pattern, thus achieving high adaptability while maintaining feasible manufacturing requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from fixed two-dimensional planar configurations to three-dimensional spatial arrangements of light cells. The modular cells can be positioned in multiple dimensions and orientations, enabling complex three-dimensional light patterns and configurations that were not possible with conventional fixed planar arrangements, thereby significantly enhancing adaptability
3Reliability
If conventional light sources are used, then light output is sufficient, but susceptibility to moisture and short lifespan are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
Each light cell is enclosed in a protective capsule or housing that acts as a barrier against moisture and environmental contaminants. This encapsulation protects the electrical components and light-emitting elements from moisture ingress, thereby improving reliability and extending lifespan while maintaining sufficient light output through the use of transparent or translucent protective materials
4Device complexity
If multiple power sources are used for different light segments, then power efficiency is improved, but device complexity is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical connection elements in each light cell are designed with universal functionality, serving both as electrical contacts for power delivery and as structural components for mechanical assembly. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate power delivery mechanisms for different light segments, maintaining device simplicity while enabling efficient power distribution through the unified modular structure
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, adaptable, moisture-proof, and easy-to-install lighting solutions for various applications, including household, commercial, and decorative uses, with unlimited configuration possibilities and reduced material requirements.
Implementation Method 1
Light sources such as light emitting diodes (LEDs)
Implementation Method 2
Electroluminescence (EL), and organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs)
Data Source
AI summary
A novel arrangement of light cells on a flexible or solid background into a multi-dimensional light source capable of unlimited configuration, which comprises of a mother cell that is connected to one source of electrical power and gets charged, subsequently charging all the other light cells and thus illuminating the entire light source with unlimited configuration.