Roller-Type Spring Attachment for Light Fittings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing attachment methods for light fittings, such as those using spiral springs, are complex to install and disassemble, not adaptable for large variations in ceiling thickness, and often require damaging the ceiling for removal.
Innovation Solution
A roller-type spring attachment system with a detachable design, where one end is fixed to a surface and the other end is detachably attached, allowing easy installation and removal without external tools, and featuring a carriage and arm mechanism for secure locking and unlocking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If spiral-type springs are used for suspension, then the light fitting can be suspended in the recess, but the installation and disassembly becomes complicated and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The spring system is divided into multiple independent roller-type springs (at least two) that can be independently operated. Each spring can be individually engaged or disengaged from the ceiling surface, allowing one spring to be manipulated while others maintain suspension, thereby reducing total installation and disassembly time while maintaining reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The roller-type springs are designed to be movable between an unrolled state (engaged with ceiling) and a rolled-up state (disengaged). This dynamic transformation allows rapid engagement and disengagement without complex manual manipulation, significantly reducing installation and disassembly time while maintaining secure suspension when engaged
2Reliability
If spiral springs are fixed at one end to the socket, then the suspension structure is stable, but the device cannot adapt to large variations in ceiling thickness
Solution Approach 1:
The roller-type springs are designed with dynamic geometry - they can be rolled up to different degrees and positioned at different distances from the light fitting socket. This allows the effective length and positioning of the springs to be adjusted to accommodate various ceiling thicknesses while maintaining stable suspension when engaged
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows change in the geometric parameters of the spring configuration (rolled-up vs unrolled state, position along the ceiling surface) to adapt to different ceiling thicknesses. The springs can be positioned at optimal locations regardless of ceiling thickness variation, maintaining suspension stability across different installation scenarios
3Ease of manufacture
If spiral springs are forced alongside the socket envelope surface, then the springs can be installed, but the process requires manual force and is not suitable for larger light fittings
Solution Approach 1:
The spring system is segmented into multiple independent roller-type springs that can be individually manipulated. This segmentation allows the installation process to be broken down into manageable steps, reducing the manual force required compared to forcing a single large spiral spring alongside the socket envelope
Solution Approach 2:
The roller-type springs can be dynamically positioned and engaged in a sequence that reduces installation difficulty. The movable nature of the rollers allows them to be guided into position more easily than fixed spiral springs, making the process suitable for larger light fittings where manual forcing would be excessively difficult
4Device complexity
If the suspension device is designed for small spotlights, then the spring configuration is simple, but it cannot accommodate larger light fittings
Solution Approach 1:
The roller-type spring design serves multiple functions: it can be used for both small and large light fittings, can be engaged and disengaged rapidly, and can adapt to different ceiling thicknesses. This multi-functionality allows a single spring configuration design to handle a wide range of light fitting sizes without requiring completely different spring systems
Solution Approach 2:
The dynamic roller-type spring mechanism provides a scalable solution that maintains relative simplicity while accommodating larger loads. The rollers can be positioned and configured to distribute weight more effectively than fixed spiral springs, enabling the use of similar spring configurations for both small spotlights and larger light fittings
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
Enables easy and rapid installation and disassembly of light fittings on various ceiling thicknesses without damaging the ceiling, providing a secure and flexible solution for different sizes and weights of devices.
Implementation Method 1
a roller-type spring, where a first end of the spring is attached at a first section of the device, so that the spring is rolled up, when the spring is detached by the releasing means
Data Source
Figure 1A~1E
Figure 1F~1G
Figure 2A~2D
AI summary
The present invention relates to an attachment means (2; 100; 200) for arranging a device (4), such as light fittings, in a recess (8) of a layer (8). The attachment means (2; 100; 200) comprises a roller-type spring (16), and spring releasing means (24, 42. 58; 108; 209). A first end (28) of the spring (16) is attached at a first section (20; 110; 210) of a surface of an elongated body (18; 101; 201 ) and/or to a surface of the device (4), A second end (30) of the spring (16) is detachably arranged to a second section (22; 112, 212) of the surface of the body (18; 101; 201) and/or of the device (4) when the spring is unrolled. The spring (16) is rolled up, when the spring is detached by the releasing means (24, 42, 58; 106; 209) from the second section (22; 112, 212) of the surface of the body (18; 101; 201) and/or of the device (4). The present invention also relates to light fittings comprising at least one of said attachment means. Further, the present invention relates to the use of a roller-type spring in said attachment means or in said light fittings, as well as a method for mounting of said light fittings.