Multi-Leg Light Mounting Structure for Theft-Resistant Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing solutions for securing penny lights on tractor trailers are labor-intensive, costly, and ineffective in preventing theft, especially in tight spaces, leading to potential fines and increased replacement costs.
Innovation Solution
A light securing device with integrated legs and securing mechanisms that securely lock the lighting device to a structure, featuring a peripheral portion and a plurality of legs with stems and moveable/fixed members to prevent unauthorized removal, which can be easily installed and resistant to prying attempts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If clamps or zip-ties are used to secure the light, then the light can be secured to the mounting surface, but the installation becomes labor intensive and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the securing function and installation simplicity by integrating the securing mechanism directly into the grommet structure itself, eliminating the need for separate clamps or zip-ties. The grommet includes legs with securing mechanisms that are built-in, allowing for quick installation without additional components or labor-intensive processes.
2Ease of operation
If traditional grommets are used, then installation is simple, but the light can be easily removed and is vulnerable to theft
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic securing mechanisms where the legs can flex or move during installation to pass through the mounting surface, then engage or lock into position to prevent removal. The securing mechanisms may include features that allow easy insertion but resist extraction, providing both ease of installation and anti-theft protection through dynamic mechanical behavior.
3Reliability
If securing mechanisms are added to prevent theft, then anti-theft protection is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the securing function into the existing grommet structure by adding legs with integrated securing mechanisms. Rather than using separate complex securing devices, the security features are combined with the mounting grommet itself, maintaining relative simplicity while providing effective theft prevention through the unified structure.
Data Source
AI summary
A light securing device includes an exterior body having an opening configured to accommodate a lighting device and including a peripheral portion configured to contact a first surface of a structure; and a plurality of legs extending from the peripheral portion, a leg of the plurality of legs including a stem extending in an insertion direction of the lighting device, and a securing mechanism extending away from the stem and configured to contact a second surface of the structure opposite the first surface to secure the lighting device to the structure.