Segmented Luminaire Frame With Tool-Free Interlocking Joints
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Solution Overview
Problem
Assembling and disassembling traditional luminaires requires significant time and effort due to the use of fastening elements like screws, which necessitate tools and precise component alignment.
Innovation Solution
A luminaire design featuring a frame unit composed of integral frame segments with tool-free connection sections that interlock without tools, allowing for quick assembly and disassembly while maintaining mechanical resistance and minimizing light leakage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional fastening elements like screws are used to connect luminaire components, then firm and reliable connections are achieved, but assembling and disassembling the luminaire takes significant time and requires tools
Solution Approach 1:
The frame is divided into multiple frame segments that can be independently assembled and disassembled. Each frame segment has connection sections with complementary geometries that enable tool-free assembly while maintaining structural integrity. This segmentation allows the luminaire to be broken down into manageable parts for quick assembly and disassembly operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical fastening systems (screws, bolts requiring tools) with a geometric interlocking system based on complementary connection sections. These connection sections use form-fitting geometries and elastic deformation mechanisms to create secure connections without requiring external fastening tools, thus eliminating the time-consuming aspect of traditional mechanical fastening.
2Strength
If traditional fastening elements like screws are used to connect luminaire components, then mechanically resistant luminaire is achieved, but the operator must hold components in precise positions while fixing each fastening element
Solution Approach 1:
The connection sections are designed to be self-aligning and self-positioning through their complementary geometries. When frame segments are brought together, the connection sections automatically guide themselves into the correct position and orientation, eliminating the need for operators to manually hold components in precise positions. The elastic deformation capability allows the connection sections to self-adjust and secure the connection without external intervention.
3Productivity
If frame segments are interconnected without tools using connection sections, then quick assembly and disassembly is achieved, but gaps may occur causing light leakages
Solution Approach 1:
The connection sections are designed with elastic deformation capabilities that allow them to change their physical parameters (shape, position) during assembly. This elasticity enables the connection sections to deform and fill any gaps between frame segments, ensuring tight joints that prevent light leakage while still allowing for quick tool-free assembly and disassembly operations.
Data Source
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AI summary
The luminaire (1) comprises: - a body (2) defining a lighting space (4) configured to receive a light source and comprising: • a frame unit comprising: ▪ a frame section (12) defining a main opening for transmitting light, ▪ a sidewall section extending from the frame section (12) to laterally delimit the lighting space, and ▪ a supporting section at least partially arranged about the circumference of the main opening, and - a front cover (8) covering the lighting space (4) towards the main opening and allowing light to pass through. The frame unit further comprises a series of integral frame segments, each one comprising a part of the frame section (12) and a part of the sidewall section. The frame segments comprise mutually corresponding connection sections for interconnecting the frame segments without any tool, and thus form the frame unit.