Movable Bracket for Retrofitting Fluorescent Troffers to LED
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing retrofit kits for converting fluorescent light assemblies to LED lighting are time-consuming, labor-intensive, and often require multiple installers and electrical connections, especially due to the need for specialized brackets and cumbersome components that are difficult to install and align with standard troffer and strip fixture designs.
Innovation Solution
A bracket assembly with a movable configuration that transitions between two lengths, allowing it to fit through the opening of a troffer and then expand to accommodate standard-length LED light tubes, enabling easy installation without the need for multiple kits or complex rewiring, and can be securely fastened within the troffer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If specialized brackets with different length are employed to accommodate standard troffer size, then the bracket can be installed in the troffer opening, but the bracket becomes hard wired with pre-mounted LED light tubes requiring time consuming and complicated rewiring for replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket assembly is divided into separate components: a removable bracket and a separate LED light tube assembly. This allows the LED light tube to be replaced without replacing the entire bracket, eliminating the need for complicated rewiring. The bracket can be reused while only the LED light tube needs to be changed.
Solution Approach 2:
The LED light tube is extracted from being permanently integrated into the bracket. Instead of being hard wired and pre-mounted, the LED light tube becomes a separate, removable component that can be easily replaced by simply disconnecting it from the bracket, similar to replacing a fluorescent lamp.
2Reliability
If multiple brackets are employed to accommodate standard length LED light tubes, then the LED light tubes can be properly supported, but the installation requires multiple operations and multiple installers
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple bracket functions are merged into a single integrated bracket assembly. The bracket includes integrated sockets for holding LED light tubes, mounting features for securing to the troffer, and structural support elements all in one piece. This eliminates the need for multiple separate brackets and simplifies installation to a single operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket assembly is designed as a universal component that performs multiple functions: it provides structural support, holds the LED light tube via integrated sockets, enables mounting to the troffer, and allows for easy replacement. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for multiple specialized components and installers.
3Length of stationary object
If retrofit kits with lengthy components are employed to accommodate strip fixture channels greater than eight feet, then the full length can be covered, but the components become difficult to ship, store, and install
Solution Approach 1:
The retrofit kit components are segmented into modular sections that can be easily shipped and stored. The bracket assembly is designed as a compact, foldable structure that reduces to a smaller package size for shipping. During installation, the bracket can be expanded to span the full length of the strip fixture channel, providing both compact storage and full-length coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket assembly incorporates dynamic, movable joints that allow it to transition between a compact configuration for shipping and storage, and an extended configuration for installation. The bracket can be folded into a compact form factor for easy handling, then expanded during installation to accommodate the full length of the strip fixture channel.
4Length of stationary object
If multiple retrofit kits are employed to cover lengthy strip light channels, then the full length can be accommodated, but multiple electrical connections must be established during installation
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple bracket assemblies are merged into a single continuous structure with integrated electrical connections. The bracket includes continuous wiring that spans the entire length of the strip fixture channel, eliminating the need for multiple separate electrical connections. This allows a single power source to supply the entire length of the LED light tubes without requiring multiple connection points.
Data Source
AI summary
Devices and methods for converting fluorescent light assemblies. In some embodiments, an apparatus comprises a bracket having a first end portion, a second end portion, and a central portion. The central portion is located between the first end portion and the second end portion. The first end portion includes a first socket that is configured to be electrically coupled to a first end portion of a LED light tube. The second end portion includes a second socket that is configured to be coupled to a second end portion of the LED light tube. The central portion defines a notch that is positioned such that the bracket can be moved between a first configuration and a second configuration.