Optical Component Holder With Flexible Flap Snap-Fit
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Solution Overview
Problem
The process of replacing optical components in lighting devices is cumbersome, often requiring tools and causing discomfort due to inaccessible screws, making regular replacements inefficient and ergonomically challenging.
Innovation Solution
An optical component holder with a central and edge portion, featuring flexible flaps with a locking snap-fit arrangement and a releasing element, allowing for tool-free and ergonomic replacement of optical elements like reflectors, using a U-shaped cross-section for secure locking and easy release.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If optical components are attached by means of hidden screws to enhance aesthetic appearance, then the aesthetic appearance is improved, but the accessibility and ease of replacement deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The optical component holder is divided into a housing portion and a separate flexible flap portion. The flexible flap can be detached from the housing, allowing users to access and replace optical components without needing to disassemble the entire housing or deal with hidden screws. This segmentation maintains the aesthetic appearance of the housing while providing easy access to components for replacement.
2Productivity
If replacement operation is made simple and quick, then productivity is improved, but the structural complexity of the holder deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible flap is designed to be dynamically adjustable - it can be flexed to different positions during installation and removal operations, then locked into a fixed position during normal operation. This dynamic capability allows simple and quick replacement of optical components while maintaining a stable and simple structure during use, avoiding the need for complex mechanical assemblies.
3Ease of operation
If the holder allows tool-free replacement, then ease of operation is improved, but the reliability of the connection deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible flap utilizes elastic deformation as a key parameter to achieve both easy operation and reliable connection. During installation, the flap is flexed to a first position allowing component insertion. During removal, it is flexed to a second position. During operation, it maintains a fixed third position that provides secure locking. This parameter change approach enables tool-free replacement while ensuring reliable connection through elastic locking mechanisms.
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
Enables quick, simple, and cost-efficient removal and replacement of optical components without tools, improving ergonomics and reducing the effort required for maintenance, while ensuring secure fixation and easy installation.
Implementation Method 1
at least one flexible flap being attached to said edge portion of said optical component holder and extending substantially in a transversal plane being substantially perpendicular to said longitudinal plane
Implementation Method 2
said lower portion of said locking snap-fit arrangement further comprising a wedge element extending substantially parallelly to said longitudinal plane and facing said central portion of said optical component holder
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to an optical component holder (1) for assembling a lighting device (20), the optical component holder (1) comprising at least one flexible flap (5) being attached to an edge portion (4) extending substantially in a transversal plane. The at least one flexible flap (5) comprises a locking snap-fit arrangement (6) and a releasing portion (9). The optical component holder (1) further comprises a housing connection (10) for attaching the optical component holder (1) to the lighting device (20) and a releasing element (12) for releasing the locking element (11). The locking snap-fit arrangement (6) comprises a contact surface (6″) facing the edge portion (4). The lower portion (8) of the locking snap-fit arrangement (6) is movable between a locked position and an unlocked position in the longitudinal plane.