Modular Recessed LED Lighting With Interchangeable Connector Assemblies

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing recessed lighting systems lack modularity and flexibility, making it difficult to customize lighting configurations and adapt to different aesthetic and illuminative requirements.

Innovation Solution

A modular, recessed lighting system featuring interchangeable LED modules with connector assemblies that allow for mechanical and electrical connections to light fixtures and other LED modules, enabling customizable lighting configurations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If traditional fixed lighting fixtures are used, then structural stability is maintained, but adaptability and customization options are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecustomization optionsVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The lighting system is divided into separate modular components: a fixture body and interchangeable LED modules. Each module contains its own circuit board and connectors, allowing independent replacement and reconfiguration without affecting the entire system structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The connector assembly is designed with universal compatibility to work with different LED module configurations. The same connector type can accommodate various module orientations (uplight, downlight, side light) and configurations, providing multi-functionality across different lighting scenarios.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If modular LED modules with connector assemblies are implemented, then adaptability and customization are enhanced, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveflexibilityVSAvoidconnector assembly complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The connector assembly integrates multiple functions into a single component: electrical connectivity, mechanical attachment, and module orientation guidance are combined in one integrated structure, reducing the number of separate parts and simplifying the overall assembly process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The connector assembly serves as an intermediary component that mediates between the fixed fixture body and the interchangeable LED modules. It provides a standardized interface that simplifies the interaction between different modular components, making the system easier to configure and reconfigure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Ease of repair

If fixed components are used in lighting fixtures, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but ease of repair and replacement is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemodule replaceabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of repairVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The LED module is designed as a separate, self-contained unit with its own circuit board and connectors, allowing it to be manufactured independently and replaced as a complete unit without disassembling the entire fixture, simplifying both manufacturing and repair processes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

4Productivity

If interchangeable modules are implemented, then productivity and customization speed are improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconfiguration speedVSAvoidconnector alignment precision
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The connector assembly incorporates localized alignment features such as guide pins or keyed interfaces at specific critical points, ensuring precise alignment only where necessary for electrical and mechanical connection, while allowing flexibility in other areas of the module design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The modular system provides enhanced flexibility and customization options, allowing users to adjust lighting configurations and adapt to various environments and design requirements while maintaining efficient electrical connections.

Implementation Method 1

a first LED disposed on the first PCB and configured to emit light, a second LED disposed on the second PCB and configured to emit light

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight-emitting diode: Light Emitting Diode

Data Source

PatentUS20250027622A1Modular, Recessed Lighting System
Publication Date: 2025.01.23 VISUAL COMFORT LLC
  • US20250027622A1 patent drawing
  • US20250027622A1 patent drawing
  • US20250027622A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A modular lighting system adapted to be installed in and illuminate an environment. The lighting system includes a first light fixture including a first canopy assembly adapted to engage a desired surface in the environment, a first light-emitting diode (LED) module, and a second LED module. The first LED module has a first connector assembly configured to mechanically and electrically connect the first LED module to the first light fixture via the first canopy assembly, the second connector assembly is configured to mechanically and electrically connect the second LED module to the first LED module, and the first LED module is interchangeable with a third LED module including a third connector assembly configured to mechanically and electrically connect the third LED module to both the second LED module and the first light fixture via the first canopy assembly.