Modular Light Fixture Assembly with Universal Base Connecting Member
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Solution Overview
Problem
Retailers face challenges in offering a broad range of light fixtures due to the need for large inventories or custom production, which can be costly and time-consuming, especially for non-specialty stores with limited space.
Innovation Solution
A modular light fixture assembly system that allows users to select from various components such as bases, light emitters, lenses, and accessories, enabling customization of light output, appearance, and functionality based on user preferences, with components connecting via standardized members for easy assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If retailers keep a large inventory of light fixtures to offer a broad range of options, then product variety is improved, but storage space requirements and inventory costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The light fixture is divided into separate modular components including a base, light emitter, inner lens, outer lens, and accessory mount. Each component can be independently selected and combined, allowing retailers to offer extensive product variety without maintaining large inventories of complete fixtures. Customers can customize their fixtures by selecting different combinations of standardized components.
2Loss of substance
If retailers build light fixtures to order based on customer selection, then inventory costs are reduced, but lead time and shipping expenses increase
Solution Approach 1:
The individual light fixture components are pre-manufactured and prepared in advance as standardized modules. When a customer places an order, the components are already available and can be quickly assembled into the desired configuration, significantly reducing lead time compared to manufacturing the entire fixture from scratch. The base, light emitter, lenses, and accessory mounts are produced separately and stored in smaller quantities.
3Ease of operation
If a standardized connecting member system is used to enable modular assembly, then ease of assembly and customization are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A universal base connecting member with protrusions is designed to serve multiple functions: it connects the light emitter to the base, secures the inner lens, attaches the outer lens, and mounts accessories. This single standardized component enables all connections throughout the system, simplifying the assembly process and reducing the number of different connector types needed, thereby managing system complexity while maximizing ease of assembly and customization.
Data Source
AI summary
A light fixture assembly includes a base including a recessed surface, an outer wall, and a base connecting member extending from the outer wall. A light emitter is connectable to the recessed surface of the base. An inner lens is connectable to the base over the light emitter. An outer lens is configured to be selectively connected to the base. The outer lens includes a lens connecting member configured to connect to the base connecting member. An accessory mount is configured to be selectively connected to the base. The accessory mount includes an accessory mount connecting member configured to connect to the base connecting member.