Retrofit Lighting Mounting System for Uniform Illumination

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing lighting fixtures are inefficient in energy consumption and light distribution, requiring costly and hazardous replacement processes, and lack a universal retrofit solution due to varying dimensions and configurations.

Innovation Solution

A retrofit system with adjustable mounting brackets, reflectors, and a frameless louver mechanism that can be installed within existing light fixture housings without accessing the ceiling, allowing for uniform light distribution and easy installation by securing components to the housing rather than the ceiling.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Illumination intensity

If traditional direct lighting is used, then the fixture structure is simple, but shadow areas are created and light distribution is non-uniform

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelight distribution uniformityVSAvoidfixture structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Illumination intensityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The lighting system is segmented into multiple independent light sources positioned at different locations and angles within the fixture. This segmentation allows each light source to illuminate specific zones, collectively achieving uniform overall illumination without requiring complex optical components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Multiple light sources are merged into a single integrated fixture housing, combining their illumination effects to create uniform light distribution. The housing structure integrates mounting mechanisms, electrical connections, and thermal management systems for multiple lamps.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Illumination intensity

If more lamps are added to eliminate shadows, then light distribution improves, but energy consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelight distribution uniformityVSAvoidenergy consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Illumination intensityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The fixture incorporates controllable lighting circuits that allow dynamic adjustment of individual lamp intensities and combinations. This enables optimization of energy consumption by activating only the necessary light sources for the current lighting conditions and requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system allows changing operational parameters such as which specific lamps are active, their intensity levels, and timing of operation. These parameter changes enable energy-efficient operation while maintaining uniform light distribution through optimized lamp combinations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Use of energy by moving object

If the entire fixture is replaced, then energy efficiency improves, but installation cost and time increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenergy efficiencyVSAvoidinstallation time
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The lighting system is extracted as a separate replaceable module that can be installed independently of the housing structure. This allows upgrading the energy-efficient lighting components without removing or replacing the entire fixture assembly, reducing installation time and disruption.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The lighting module is pre-assembled and pre-wired as a complete functional unit before installation. This preliminary preparation allows for quick installation by simply connecting the module to the existing housing electrical connections, minimizing installation time and complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

4Ease of operation

If ceiling components are removed for fixture replacement, then access to installation area is gained, but environmental hazards and safety risks increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation accessVSAvoidenvironmental and safety hazards
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The fixture housing is designed with self-contained access mechanisms such as removable panels or hinged covers that allow installation personnel to access the interior lighting components from below the ceiling. This eliminates the need to remove ceiling tiles or access the plenum space, avoiding exposure to asbestos, accumulated contaminants, and electrical hazards in the ceiling environment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

5Ease of manufacture

If retrofit components are attached to the inner surface of existing housings, then installation is simplified, but light distribution varies due to housing dimension variations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveretrofit installation easeVSAvoidlight distribution uniformity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSIllumination intensity

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting system is designed with universal features that can accommodate variations in housing dimensions and configurations. Adjustable mounting brackets, telescopic positioning mechanisms, and flexible electrical connections allow the same retrofit kit to be installed in multiple housing types while maintaining consistent light distribution through programmable control of multiple light sources.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS8153894B2Mounting system
Publication Date: 2012.04.10 ABL IP HLDG LLC
  • US8153894B2 patent drawing
  • US8153894B2 patent drawing
  • US8153894B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A mounting system for a member to a support structure. The member includes ends and sides. A hinge may be attached to one of the ends of the member. Hinges may be attached to both ends along the same side of the member. The hinge may include an arm from which a tab extends. The ends may include securing means. The support structure includes a mounting aperture that is configured to interact with the hinge of the member. In some embodiments, the support structure may have multiple mounting apertures. The mounting aperture is configured to prevent the hinge of the member from disengaging from the support structure. In some embodiments, the mounting aperture is configured to pivotally retain the hinge of the member.