Linear Luminaire With Rigid PCB for Uniform Light Emission
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional linear luminaires face issues with non-uniform light emission due to obstructive structures within the channel, leading to shadows and dark spots, and require complex assembly processes for precise alignment and adhesion of components.
Innovation Solution
A linear luminaire design featuring a light-transmissive open enclosure with a rigid PCB carrying LED light engines, where the PCB is positioned parallel to a translucent top and opaque sidewalls, allowing for unobstructed light emission and simplified assembly through adhesive endcaps and mounting clips.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If obstructive structures are added to the channel for component mounting and alignment, then assembly precision is improved, but light emission uniformity deteriorates due to shadows and dark spots
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the traditional channel structure entirely, extracting the obstructive elements that caused shadows and dark spots. The linear lighting assembly is mounted directly to the mounting surface, eliminating the channel's interfering structures while preserving component mounting and alignment capabilities through dedicated mounting features.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional channel structures with multiple components are used, then component mounting flexibility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functions into the linear lighting assembly itself: the PCB provides both structural support and electrical connections, mounting features are integrated directly onto the PCB, and the light engine array is mounted directly to the PCB without requiring a separate channel structure. This consolidation eliminates unnecessary components and simplifies the overall assembly.
3Manufacturing precision
If precise alignment features are added to the channel, then component positioning is improved, but ease of installation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The PCB incorporates self-aligning mounting features such as mounting holes and attachment structures that automatically position the linear lighting assembly correctly during installation. The features guide proper alignment without requiring complex external fixtures or precise manual positioning, allowing installers to simply attach the assembly to the mounting surface.
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
Ensures uniform light distribution to lateral edges with minimal shadows and simplifies installation by eliminating the need for precise alignment and adhesion, enabling continuous light emission and easy length adjustment.
Implementation Method 1
A linear luminaire includes a channel with a first compartment and a second compartment. One or more strips of linear lighting are disposed in the first compartment. The channel may have a light-transmissive top and opaque sidewalls.
Implementation Method 2
simplifies installation by eliminating the need for precise alignment and adhesion, enabling continuous light emission
Data Source
AI summary
A linear luminaire includes an enclosure with a top that is at least translucent. The enclosure may be extruded from a plastic or, in some cases, co-extruded with two different materials so that the pair of sidewalls can be made of an opaque material. The enclosure may be open along a bottom side opposite the top. In some embodiments, an elongate rigid printed circuit board (PCB) carrying LED light engines is installed between the pair of sidewalls in slot structure defined on respective inner faces. The PCB may carry connecting structure staggered along the length of its underside. In some embodiments, the PCB may be adapted to accept high-voltage alternating current (AC) directly, without converting the power to another form.