Modular Linear Lighting Channel Segmentation for Installation Flexibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional linear lighting channels are often limited in their modular and multipurpose capabilities, with single-piece constructions that restrict flexibility in installation and light diffusion, and lack adaptable mounting options.
Innovation Solution
Modular channels with separable sidewalls and bottoms connected by complementary engaging structures, allowing for various configurations, including the use of intermediate members for enhanced adhesion and light diffusion, and removable flanges for versatile mounting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a single-piece extrusion channel is used, then manufacturing is simplified, but installation flexibility and adaptability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The channel is divided into separate modular components including sidewalls with flanges and a bottom section, connected through complementary engaging structures. This segmentation allows independent installation of each component and enables adaptation to various mounting configurations while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through standardized extrusion profiles for each module.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular channel components are designed with universal engaging structures that can accommodate different assembly configurations and mounting orientations. The flanged sidewalls can be adapted for surface mounting, recessed mounting, or suspended installation, making the same basic components suitable for multiple application scenarios.
2Strength
If sidewalls have inward projections or ridges, then structural strength is improved, but light diffusion is blocked
Solution Approach 1:
The sidewall structure is segmented into an outer shell providing structural strength and an inner light-transmitting section that remains free of obstructions. The engaging structures and reinforcing elements are positioned to connect the bottom to the sidewalls without extending into the light path between the linear lighting and the cover.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the sidewall are given different properties: the outer portions and flanges provide structural strength and mounting capability, while the inner light-transmitting regions are kept clear and unobstructed to maximize light diffusion. This local differentiation allows both strength and light transmission requirements to be satisfied simultaneously.
3Adaptability or versatility
If modular components are used, then installation flexibility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The channel is segmented into a limited number of standardized modules (sidewalls with flanges and bottom sections) that repeat throughout the system. This segmentation provides installation flexibility while controlling complexity through standardization of the modular components and their connecting interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple functions are merged into the modular components: the sidewalls simultaneously provide structural support, mounting surfaces through flanges, and light transmission paths. The complementary engaging structures combine joining, alignment, and securing functions in a single integrated interface, reducing the number of separate parts needed.
4Stability of the object's composition
If flanges are permanently attached, then mounting stability is improved, but adaptability for different mounting styles is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The flange attachment system is designed to be dynamically configurable rather than fixed. The complementary engaging structures allow the flanges to be securely attached for stable mounting while enabling easy detachment and reconfiguration for different mounting styles, transitioning between stable and adaptable states as needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The flanged sidewall modules are designed with universal mounting capabilities that can accommodate multiple mounting styles (surface mounting, recessed mounting, suspended mounting) using the same basic components. The engaging structures provide stable attachment for each mounting type while allowing adaptation between different installation configurations.
Data Source
AI summary
Modular channels are disclosed. The channels include a pair of sidewalls and a channel bottom. The pair of sidewalls and the channel bottom are separate, modular, and connected at or proximate to the sidewall bottoms by complementary engaging structures carried by the parts. In some cases, an intermediate member may be placed in the joints between the bottom and the sidewalls. The intermediate member may be made of plastic or rubber, and typically has a constant cross section. It may be a tube or have a round or ellipsoid cross section. The sidewalls may have flanges for flush-mounting the channel in a wall or similar structure. The sidewalls and bottom may carry various channels for alignment with other channels or mounting on other structures.