Panel module and method for obtaining the same

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing edge-lit LED panels face challenges with inferior illumination properties and complex, time- and cost-inefficient assembly due to component arrangement and the need for multiple components.

Innovation Solution

A panel module design featuring a hollow frame with a driver unit positioned behind the optical element, reducing light obstruction and allowing for improved light emission, combined with a method of assembling the module using a few components and 3D-printed segments for easy assembly.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Illumination intensity

If the driver unit is arranged beside the optical element in prior art panels, then the assembly structure is simple, but the effective light-emitting area is reduced and illumination properties deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveillumination propertiesVSAvoidcomponent arrangement complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Illumination intensityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The driver unit is relocated from a lateral arrangement (beside the optical element in the plane) to a depth-based arrangement (behind the optical element along the light propagation direction). This dimensional shift allows the driver unit to occupy space that does not interfere with the light-emitting area, thereby improving illumination properties without significantly increasing assembly complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Productivity

If multiple components are used in prior art panels, then the panel structure is robust, but the assembly process becomes time-consuming and cost-inefficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly efficiencyVSAvoidpanel structure stability
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The driver unit and power supply components are integrated into a single compact assembly that fits within the hollow portion of the frame. This merging of components reduces the total number of separate parts, simplifies the assembly process, and improves productivity while maintaining structural robustness through the unified design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If the frame is solid in prior art designs, then the structural strength is high, but the RF transparency and component arrangement flexibility are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecomponent arrangement flexibilityVSAvoidframe structural strength
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The frame is segmented into solid and hollow portions, with the hollow section strategically positioned to accommodate the driver unit. This segmentation provides RF transparency and flexibility for component arrangement while the remaining solid portions of the frame maintain sufficient structural strength for panel support.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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 solution enhances illumination properties by increasing the effective light-emitting area, reduces material costs, and simplifies assembly, making the panel module more cost-efficient and RF-transparent for component arrangement.

Implementation Method 1

a lighting arrangement comprising at least one light-emitting diode

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight-emitting diode: Light Emitting Diode

Data Source

PatentUS11454386B2Panel module and method for obtaining the same
Publication Date: 2022.09.27 SIGNIFY HOLDING BV
  • US11454386B2 patent drawing
  • US11454386B2 patent drawing
  • US11454386B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A panel module (100), comprising a first frame (110) arranged in a first plane (P), and at least one optical element (135) elongating along the first plane. The first frame is at least partially hollow and arranged to hold at least a peripheral portion of the at least one optical element. The panel module further comprises a lighting arrangement (130) comprising at least one light-emitting diode, wherein the lighting arrangement is arranged within the first frame and at an edge portion of the at least one optical element. The panel further comprises a driver unit (140) coupled to the lighting arrangement and configured to supply power thereto. The first frame comprises a first space (150) provided behind the at least one optical element in a direction (D) perpendicular to the first plane, wherein the driver unit is arranged within the first space.