Rotatable Latch for Recessed Light Fixture Sleds
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Solution Overview
Problem
Recessed light fixtures often face challenges in limited plenum space above the ceiling, where conventional latching mechanisms require constant pressure to remain open, making one-handed operation difficult due to space constraints.
Innovation Solution
A rotating latch mechanism that secures a sled within a light fixture mount, allowing single-handed operation by rotating between locked and unlocked configurations without needing additional vertical space, thus reducing the overall footprint and enabling easier component removal and installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional latching springs are used, then the sled can be secured to the housing, but constant pressure is required to retain the spring in an unlatched state, making one-handed operation difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism transitions from a static spring-based system requiring constant force to a dynamic rotatable system that maintains locking position without continuous pressure application. The rotatable latch uses mechanical engagement surfaces that self-maintain the locked state through geometric constraints rather than continuous force.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the spring-based mechanical latching system with a rotatable latch mechanism that uses rotational motion and mechanical engagement surfaces. This substitution eliminates the need for constant pressure while maintaining secure engagement, enabling easier one-handed operation.
2Ease of operation
If vertical displacement space is provided for latching spring operation, then the spring can function properly, but the overall fixture height increases, occupying more plenum space
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism transitions from vertical linear displacement to rotational motion within the horizontal plane. By changing the dimension of operation from vertical to rotational, the mechanism eliminates the need for additional vertical clearance while maintaining full operational capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a linear spring displacement mechanism to a rotatable latch that operates through angular motion. This dynamic change in motion type allows the latching function to be performed within the existing vertical clearance without requiring additional space.
3Productivity
If simple latching springs are used, then the structure is simple, but two hands are typically required for operation, reducing productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The rotatable latch mechanism provides a single-point actuation interface that can be operated with one hand. The rotational motion concentrates the latching and unlatching action at one location, eliminating the need for two-handed coordination required by spring-based systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the latching action to a separate rotatable mechanism that operates independently from the mounting structure. This extraction allows the latching function to be performed with a simple rotational motion using one hand, while the rest of the fixture remains stationary and secure.
Data Source
AI summary
A light fixture mount including a base, a housing, a sled, and a latch rotatably coupled to the housing. The base defines an opening extending through the base. The housing is positioned on the base and defines a compartment, wherein an access opening is provided in the housing for access to the compartment. The sled is configured to be positioned at least partially within the compartment and includes a sled base configured to support a component for a light engine and a faceplate configured to cover the access opening of the housing. The latch is configured to rotate between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration, wherein the latch engages and secures the sled to the housing.