Modular Light System Segmentation for Repairable LED Arrays
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
LED light systems present challenges in repair and replacement as the light source is not an individual component, often requiring replacement of the entire system when a component fails, and lack modularity for flexible configuration and installation.
Innovation Solution
A modular light system with mechanical and electrical couplings that allow easy assembly and disassembly of light modules, featuring a head module, base module, and junction box with plug and receptacle connections, enabling flexible configuration and power distribution to solid-state light emitting components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If LED light systems use integrated light sources (plurality of LEDs on a printed circuit board), then the light system provides reliable and energy-efficient illumination, but the entire system must be replaced when a component fails, increasing repair complexity and cost
Solution Approach 1:
The LED light system is divided into separate replaceable modules: a power supply module, a driver module, and LED array modules. Each module contains specific components (LEDs mounted on a printed circuit board within a housing). When a component fails, only the affected module needs to be replaced, not the entire light system, thus improving ease of repair while maintaining system reliability.
2Ease of repair
If traditional incandescent or halogen bulbs are used, then individual bulbs can be easily replaced when faulty, but the light systems consume more energy and have lower reliability compared to LED systems
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the LED arrays into modular units that can be independently replaced, providing ease of repair similar to traditional bulbs. Simultaneously, the system uses energy-efficient LED technology throughout, reducing overall energy consumption compared to incandescent or halogen systems.
3Device complexity
If fixed-size light fixtures are installed, then the installation structure is simple, but the system cannot accommodate various installation size requirements or be reconfigured in real-time
Solution Approach 1:
The light system is divided into standardized modular units with uniform connection interfaces. These modules can be easily assembled in series to create light strings of various lengths and configurations. The simple modular design allows the system to adapt to different installation requirements while maintaining straightforward installation procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows dynamic reconfiguration by enabling users to add, remove, or rearrange modular LED units according to changing installation requirements. The standardized connectors facilitate quick reconfiguration without complex wiring changes, providing adaptability while keeping the overall system design simple.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular light system comprising a light module comprising a heat sink having a first side with a first mechanical coupling and a second side with a second mechanical coupling, a solid-state light emitting component connected to the heat sink, and a junction box with a first electrical coupling and a second electrical coupling, at least one being electrically connected to the solid-state light emitting component. The modular light system further comprises a base module removably connected to the first side by the first mechanical coupling and the first electrical coupling, and having a connection for power input to the modular light system to provide power to the solid-state light emitting component. A head module is removably connected to the second side by the second mechanical coupling and the second electrical coupling, and has a power terminal end connector.