Self-Propelled Lighting Units for Two-Axis Grid Locomotion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional lighting systems in commercial spaces are inflexible and labor-intensive to reconfigure, making it challenging to adapt to changing lighting requirements in multi-use spaces, especially when frequent changes are needed for different purposes or events.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of self-propelled lighting units that can move along multiple axes within a two- or three-dimensional grid or track system, allowing for intelligent locomotion and easy reconfiguration of lighting arrangements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional stationary light fixtures are installed in ceiling or overhead support structure, then lighting coverage is provided for the space, but the lighting arrangement cannot be easily reconfigured when lighting requirements change
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms stationary light fixtures into mobile robotic units that can autonomously navigate along two-axis tracks mounted on ceilings or walls. These self-propelled units dynamically reposition themselves to different locations and orientations, enabling the lighting system to adapt to changing requirements without manual intervention while maintaining structural simplicity through automated movement mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The lighting units are equipped with autonomous navigation capabilities, allowing them to self-propel along the track system and automatically reconfigure lighting arrangements based on detected requirements. The units independently determine their positioning and movement along two orthogonal axes without requiring manual adjustment, thereby achieving adaptive reconfiguration through self-service operation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual adjustment of individual light fixtures is performed in large spaces, then lighting position can be changed, but labor intensity and downtime increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The lighting units autonomously navigate and reposition themselves along the two-axis track system without requiring manual intervention. Each unit independently controls its movement along orthogonal tracks, automatically adjusting lighting positions to meet changing requirements while eliminating labor-intensive manual adjustment and minimizing operational downtime.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical adjustment with automated robotic navigation systems. The self-propelled units use motorized movement mechanisms to traverse the track infrastructure, substituting human-operated mechanical positioning with automated control systems that enhance reconfiguration speed and reduce labor requirements.
3Ease of operation
If conventional track lights allow manual position change along linear track, then limited position adjustment is achieved, but movement freedom remains constrained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extends conventional linear track movement by introducing a second orthogonal axis of travel. Lighting units can move along one axis and then transition to the perpendicular axis, enabling two-dimensional positioning across the ceiling or wall surface. This dimensional expansion transforms limited linear adjustment into comprehensive area coverage with enhanced operational flexibility and adaptability.
Data Source
AI summary
A self-propelled unit for movable operation on a support structure along a first axis of movement and a second axis of movement that is transverse to the first axis of movement includes a carrier configured for movable displacement on the support structure. A first conveyor assembly is operable to move the carrier on the support structure along the first axis of movement. A second conveyor assembly is operable to move the carrier on the support structure along the second axis of movement. A light source can be attached to the carrier in an operable mode to provide illumination to an area in proximity to the carrier. At least one power contact is configured to maintain electrical contact between the carrier and the support structure.