Modular Lighting System Shared Structural Connectors
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular lighting systems lack seamless electro-mechanical connectivity, limiting their ability to form an array of configurations and providing flexible illumination density and scalability.
Innovation Solution
A modular lighting system comprising three-dimensional structural frames connected by multi-armed connectors, allowing for horizontal and vertical expansion, with power cables routed through hollow tubes to reduce clutter and enhance aesthetics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If modular lighting systems use separate structural components for each luminaire, then ease of manufacture and assembly are improved, but device complexity and lack of seamless connectivity worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines structural support and electrical connectivity functions into a single integrated connector component. This connector serves dual purposes: mechanically joining luminaire cubes while simultaneously providing electro-mechanical connectivity for power and data transmission. This merging eliminates the need for separate structural and electrical components, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining ease of manufacture.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is designed as a universal component that performs multiple functions: structural attachment, electrical power transmission, and data communication. This multi-functional design allows a single component type to replace what would traditionally require multiple specialized parts, simplifying the overall system architecture while preserving manufacturing simplicity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If modular lighting systems allow for infinite configurations, then adaptability and versatility are improved, but device complexity and installation difficulty worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The lighting system is divided into identical, standardized luminaire cube modules that can be independently manufactured and then assembled in various configurations. Each cube contains integrated components (lighting elements, connectors, power supplies) that are pre-configured during manufacturing. This segmentation allows infinite spatial arrangements while keeping individual module complexity low and standardized.
Solution Approach 2:
The universal connector design enables any luminaire cube to connect to any other cube in multiple orientations and configurations. The connector's multi-functionality (structural + electrical + data) ensures that the same component works regardless of the overall system arrangement, enabling adaptability without increasing the complexity of individual components.
3Ease of operation
If power cables are routed externally through connectors, then ease of installation is improved, but aesthetic appearance and clutter worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the power cable routing function with the structural connector by integrating cable conduits directly into the connector housing. Power cables are routed through hollow chambers within the connector itself, concealing them within the structural framework rather than having them hang externally. This eliminates visual clutter while maintaining ease of installation, as cables are guided through pre-formed pathways during assembly.
Data Source
AI summary
A lighting system includes two or more three-dimensional structural frames that are joined to one another by at least one shared frame component and at least one shared connector to form a modular structural frame. The frames can be fitted with a light emitting panel for emitting light downwardly. The frames can be suspended from a ceiling via suspension cables or can be fixedly mounted to a ceiling.