Preloaded Spring Plate for Tool-Less Downlight Fixation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for fixing downlights in cutouts are not user-friendly, often require tools, and may not provide sufficient holding force, especially in thicker ceilings or cylindrical holes, and can be difficult to dismount safely.
Innovation Solution
A preloaded spring device with an elongated spring plate, featuring a first section for fastening and a second section with a support surface, providing a doublet spring effect for secure fixation without tools, adapted to fit various opening shapes and sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional fastening methods (screws, L brackets) are used to secure downlights in cutouts, then sufficient holding force is achieved, but tool access is required and installation becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-loaded arms automatically expand and lock into place when the downlight is inserted into the cutout, eliminating the need for manual tool operation. The system serves itself by using the insertion action to trigger the expanding springs that then secure the fixture without requiring separate fastening operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening mechanism transitions from a static screwed connection to a dynamic spring-loaded system that automatically adjusts and locks. The springs expand elastically during installation and maintain continuous contact pressure, providing adaptive holding force that responds to the cutout geometry.
2Ease of operation
If spring-loaded arms are used to provide tool-less attachment, then installation ease is improved, but holding force becomes insufficient for thick ceilings
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening system is divided into multiple independent spring-loaded arms rather than using a single fastening point. This segmentation allows the load to be distributed across multiple contact points, increasing the total holding force while maintaining the tool-less installation benefit of each individual spring arm.
Solution Approach 2:
The system combines elastic spring elements with rigid support structures and contact surfaces. This composite approach allows the springs to provide flexible, adaptive force while the rigid components maintain structural integrity and distribute loads effectively, achieving both ease of installation and sufficient holding strength.
3Ease of operation
If friction-based spring elements are used for tool-less fixation, then installation simplicity is achieved, but dismounting becomes difficult and dangerous
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-loaded arms are designed to be dynamically reversible - they expand during installation to lock the downlight securely, but can be easily compressed and retracted during dismounting. This dynamic characteristic allows the same mechanism to provide strong holding force during use while enabling simple, safe removal when maintenance is needed.
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 allows for easy installation and removal of downlights without tools, provides sufficient fastening strength, and maintains secure fixation in different opening configurations, including thicker ceilings and cylindrical holes, while minimizing the risk of accidental dismounting.
Implementation Method 1
a preloaded spring adapted to create compression against a cut-out
Implementation Method 2
an elongated spring plate... the preloaded spring is comprised of an elongated spring plate
Implementation Method 3
the fasteners are adapted to fasten the first section to a light fixture or parts thereof
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
It is provided a device and system for fixation of light fixture, the device comprises a preloaded spring adapted to create compression against a cut-out, wherein the preloaded spring is comprised of an elongated spring plate. Wherein the spring comprises a first section, the first section comprises means for receiving fasteners, wherein the fasteners are adapted to fasten the first section to a light fixture or parts thereof, and at least a second section extending from the first section. The second section comprises an first support surface, adapted to contact the light fixture or parts thereof, wherein the outer section is preloaded between the fastener of the first section and the first support surface.