Removable Cover Bracket for Concealing Light Strip Ends
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional railing systems lack an effective method to securely attach and conceal light strips, which can compromise safety and aesthetics by exposing unsightly ends and requiring complex installation processes.
Innovation Solution
A bracket system comprising an attachment portion with a planar section and a body portion, along with a cover portion forming a channel to hold light strips, allowing secure attachment and concealment of light strip ends, featuring a curved base, parallel walls, and tabs for easy assembly and disassembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional railing systems are used without specialized brackets, then the railing system structure remains simple, but the ability to securely attach and conceal light strips is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket is divided into two main segments: an attachment portion for mounting to the railing and a cover portion for concealing the light strip ends. This segmentation allows each portion to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The light strip is nested within the channel formed by the attachment and cover portions, with the bracket components nested together through interlocking features. This nesting approach secures the light strip reliably while keeping the overall structure compact and simple
2Ease of manufacture
If light strip ends are exposed without concealment, then the installation process remains simple, but the aesthetic appeal is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The cover portion is designed to be removably attached, allowing the light strip ends to be concealed during normal operation while enabling easy removal for installation, maintenance, or replacement. This extraction approach maintains aesthetic appeal without permanently complicating the structure
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket transitions from an open state during installation to a closed concealing state during operation. The removable cover portion allows dynamic adjustment between installation simplicity and aesthetic concealment based on operational requirements
3Reliability
If complex installation processes are used to attach light strips, then secure attachment may be achieved, but the ease of installation is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment portion includes pre-formed mounting features and the cover portion includes pre-formed engagement features that align during assembly. This preliminary preparation of engagement features allows secure attachment to be achieved through simple alignment and engagement actions rather than complex installation procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The channel structure acts as an intermediary that guides and positions the light strip during installation, ensuring proper alignment between the light strip and the attachment features. This intermediary guidance simplifies the installation process while maintaining secure attachment
Data Source
AI summary
A bracket for securing an accessory (e.g. a light strip) to a structure (e.g. a railing) comprises an attachment portion and a cover portion. The cover portion is removably attached to the attachment portion. When the two portions are attached together, a channel is formed for holding the accessory. The attachment portion comprises a planar portion with one or more openings adapted to receive fasteners for attaching the attachment portion to the structure.