Self-centering ring for LED retrofit lamp alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing LED retrofit lamps for vehicle headlighting face challenges in achieving precise mechanical alignment with conventional halogen lamps, leading to potential lateral shifts and tilting, which affect beam pattern accuracy and luminance.
Innovation Solution
A self-centering ring design with complementary angled features and a constant gap mechanism ensures precise alignment between the LED retrofit lamp and the centering ring, maintaining concentric configuration and preventing tilting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional mounting methods are used for LED retrofit lamps, then installation simplicity is maintained, but mechanical alignment precision deteriorates due to lateral shifts and tilting
Solution Approach 1:
A centering ring is introduced as an intermediary component between the LED retrofit lamp and the headlight assembly. This ring features an outer diameter that fits within the headlight and an inner diameter that receives the LED lamp body, creating a mediating structure that ensures precise concentric alignment without complicating the overall mounting process
Solution Approach 2:
The centering ring is pre-positioned in the headlight assembly before installing the LED retrofit lamp. This preliminary action establishes the correct alignment and concentric configuration in advance, preventing lateral shifts and tilting during subsequent installation steps
2Manufacturing precision
If simple centering rings are used, then device complexity is reduced, but alignment precision deteriorates due to inability to prevent tilting
Solution Approach 1:
The centering ring incorporates an asymmetric feature: a single axial clearance or slot in the radial direction. This asymmetric design allows the ring to self-center the LED retrofit lamp by permitting controlled movement in one direction while maintaining precise alignment in other directions, preventing tilting without requiring complex manufacturing
Data Source
AI summary
A self-centering ring for an LED retrofit lamp, an LED retrofit lamp, and a vehicle headlight are described. The lamp includes a ring-shaped body that includes an outer ring and an opening in a central region of the ring-shaped body that receives the LED retrofit lamp.