Releasable Optical Element Axial Compression Mounting
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional optical elements in lighting applications are difficult to mount and replace, especially in confined spaces or after installation, requiring manual access and tools, which limits flexibility and versatility.
Innovation Solution
An optical element with a deformable member that allows for tool-free mounting and dismounting by compressing between a shoulder and base surfaces, enabling frictional connection to a lighting module without specific receiving portions, and allowing for customization with replaceable deformable members.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If optical elements are mounted using conventional screwing or clamping methods, then reliable connection is achieved, but mounting and dismounting requires manual access and tools which is difficult or impossible in confined spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The optical element is divided into an inner member and an outer member that can move relative to each other axially. The deformable member is segmented into discrete elements arranged around the circumference, allowing independent deformation and expansion to engage with the lighting module's receiving portion.
Solution Approach 2:
The deformable member automatically expands to engage with the lighting module when the inner member is axially compressed relative to the outer member. This self-actuating mechanism eliminates the need for manual intervention or tools during mounting and dismounting operations.
2Shape
If the luminaire is countersunk into the ceiling or wall to provide a low visible profile, then aesthetic appearance is improved, but manual replacement of parts becomes difficult or impossible due to restricted space
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting mechanism transitions from a static fixed connection to a dynamic system where the inner member can move axially within the outer member. This dynamic arrangement allows the deformable member to expand and contract, enabling easy engagement and disengagement without requiring manual access to confined spaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The deformable member acts as an intermediary between the inner and outer members, transferring the axial compression force into radial expansion force that engages with the lighting module's receiving portion. This intermediary mechanism enables tool-free mounting and dismounting while maintaining a compact luminaire design.
3Ease of operation
If a deformable member is compressed axially between the inner member and outer member, then easy mounting and dismounting is achieved, but the structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The deformable member serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a spring element to store and release mechanical energy, a connector to engage with the lighting module's receiving portion, and a sealing element to maintain environmental protection. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby limiting the increase in overall structural complexity.
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
Facilitates easy, tool-free mounting and modification of optical elements on lighting modules with varying configurations and diameters, enhancing flexibility and reducing the need for manual access, especially in constricted spaces.
Implementation Method 1
The deformable member may advantageously be an elastically deformable member such that it returns to its original shape when it is no longer compressed.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 3a~3b
AI summary
An optical element (100) for releasable connection to a lighting module (103), the optical element comprising; an outer member (102) having a cylindrical portion, the cylindrical portion having a shoulder portion (104) extending towards a central axis of the cylindrical portion; an inner member (110) having a cylindrical portion at least partially arranged within the cylindrical portion of the outer member (102); wherein the optical element further comprises at least one deformable member (108) arranged within the cylindrical portion of the outer element adjacent to the shoulder; and at least one of the inner and the outer member comprising an optical member (120) for modifying light emitted from the lighting module; and wherein the inner member is movable in an axial direction in relation to the outer member to compress the deformable member between a base surface of the cylindrical portion of the inner member and the shoulder portion of the cylindrical portion of the outer member.