Modular Lightbar Connector for Transverse Serviceable Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lightbar systems require disassembly of the entire system to service or replace a single assembly, as individual assemblies cannot be easily removed without disconnecting adjacent units.
Innovation Solution
A modular lightbar system design allowing components to be connected and disconnected transversely, enabling easy installation, configuration, and service without disassembling the entire system, using connectors that orient conductive terminals transverse to the longitudinal axis for safe and reliable connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If lightbar assemblies are connected end-to-end using a joiner that electrically connects one lightbar assembly to another, then the lightbar system can be assembled in a desired layout, but a single lightbar assembly cannot be removed without removing the adjacent lightbar assemblies
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into two separate components: a plug attached to one lightbar assembly and a receptacle attached to another. This segmentation allows individual assemblies to be disconnected and removed independently by simply unplugging the connector, without requiring disassembly of the entire lightbar system.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the entire lightbar system must be disassembled to service or replace a single lightbar assembly, then complete system control is maintained, but significant time and effort are required for maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The connector design enables dynamic reconfiguration of the lightbar system. Individual assemblies can be quickly connected or disconnected by plugging or unplugging the connector, allowing rapid servicing, replacement, or reconfiguration of specific assemblies without affecting the stability or integrity of the remaining system.
3Ease of repair
If connectors are designed for easy connection and disconnection, then serviceability is improved, but connection reliability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The connector acts as an intermediary component between lightbar assemblies, providing a reliable electrical connection through plug-and-receptacle engagement. The design incorporates features such as contact springs, retention mechanisms, and alignment guides that ensure dependable electrical connectivity while maintaining ease of connection and disconnection.
Data Source
AI summary
A lightbar assembly connector for use in a modular lightbar system to connect two or more lightbar assemblies together and having a design and configuration that enables the lightbar assembly connector and lightbar assemblies to be connected by moving the lightbar assembly connector in a direction generally transverse to the longitudinal axis of the lightbar assembly (or by moving the lightbar assembly in a direction generally transverse to the major surface of the lightbar assembly connector). It is thus possible to assemble a modular lightbar system comprised of a plurality of lightbar assemblies and lightbar assembly connectors, any of which are easily removable, replaceable, or serviceable without having to remove or move lightbar assemblies that do not need to be replaced or serviced.