Segmented Light Fixture Stem for Adjustable Length and Waste Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional light fixture connection devices are often manufactured in fixed lengths, leading to material waste and inefficiencies when adjustments are needed due to non-uniform light fixture sizes, as cutting or modifying existing devices results in unusable segments and potential structural damage.
Innovation Solution
A two-piece connection assembly comprising a threaded stem and a separate connector component, allowing for selective sizing and re-purposing of materials, with the stem being cut to desired length and the connector providing secure engagement without integrating unnecessary structural elements, thus minimizing waste and enhancing adjustability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If conventional light fixture connection devices are manufactured in fixed predetermined lengths, then manufacturing and inventory management is simplified, but material waste increases and adaptability to different light fixture sizes is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The connection device is divided into multiple separable threaded segments that can be independently removed and reconfigured. This allows the device to be customized to different lengths by selecting and assembling only the necessary segments, thereby reducing material waste while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through standardized segment production.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection device transitions from a static fixed-length structure to a dynamic reconfigurable structure. The threaded segments can be selectively assembled and disassembled to adapt to different light fixture sizes and installation requirements, providing flexibility without compromising manufacturing efficiency.
2Adaptability or versatility
If connection devices are made with adjustable lengths through multiple threaded segments, then adaptability to different light fixture sizes is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the connection device into standardized threaded portions, the complexity is managed through modularity. Each segment is a simple, repeatable unit that can be independently manufactured and assembled, reducing overall structural complexity while enabling length adjustability.
Solution Approach 2:
The threaded segments are designed with universal compatibility, allowing the same segment design to be used in various positions and configurations. This universality simplifies the device structure by eliminating the need for multiple specialized components, while still providing adaptability to different installation scenarios.
3Strength
If a single-piece mounting post with integrated flange is used, then structural integrity is maintained, but material waste increases when cutting is required for length adjustment
Solution Approach 1:
The single-piece mounting post is segmented into separate threaded portions and flange components. This allows the threaded segments to be selectively assembled to achieve the required length without cutting, thereby maintaining structural integrity while eliminating material waste associated with cutting operations.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of discarding excess material when cutting a single-piece post, the segmented design allows unused threaded segments to be recovered and reused in other installations. This recovering principle reduces material waste while maintaining the structural integrity needed for each specific application.
Data Source
AI summary
A fixture connection assembly includes separate connection and threaded stem components. The threaded stem component includes both threaded and non-threaded portions, where the threaded stem may be re-sized and still produce useful fitted stems from discarded portions.