Shadowless Light Tape Connector Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Typical elongated lighting apparatus that are connectable for creating a chain of lighting segments use mechanical connectors, which disrupt the continuity of lighting along the length of the chain.
Innovation Solution
The development of a light tape system that includes segments with LED arrays on both sides, allowing for continuous illumination when connected, without the use of mechanical connectors that disrupt lighting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If mechanical connectors are used to connect lighting segments, then the segments can be joined together to form a chain, but the continuity of lighting is disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the mechanical connector from the exterior of the lighting segment. Instead, electrical contacts are embedded within the segment body, allowing segments to connect electrically without visible external connectors that would disrupt the light output. This extracts the connecting function from the light-emitting surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical contacts are nested within the lighting segment body rather than protruding outward. The connector elements are embedded inside the segment housing, allowing one segment to nest into another while maintaining continuous light output from the exterior surface.
2Reliability
If mechanical connectors are placed on the exterior for connection, then electrical contact is achieved, but shadows are formed that disrupt lighting continuity
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical connection function is extracted from the exterior surface and relocated to the interior of the segment. Electrical contacts are positioned inside the housing, eliminating the need for external connector elements that would block light and create shadows.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an internal electrical contact structure that acts as an intermediary between segments. Rather than direct exterior-to-exterior contact, the connection is mediated through embedded contacts within the segment body, allowing electrical continuity without physical obstruction of the light path.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The light tape system provides continuous and uninterrupted lighting along the chain of segments, enhancing the aesthetic and functional performance of elongated lighting applications.
Implementation Method 1
The first array of LEDs may emit light in a first direction. The second array of LEDs may emit light in a second direction.
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus, methods and systems for light tape. The light tape may include a first segment. The light tape may include a first array of light emitting diodes (“LEDs”). The first array of LEDs may be disposed along the first segment. The first array of LEDs may emit light in a first direction. The light tape may include a second array of LEDs. The second array of LEDs may be disposed along the first segment. The second array of LEDs may emit light in a second direction. The light tape may include a first extension extending from the first segment. The first extension may be physically connected to a second extension extending from a second segment. The first extension may form a joint when connected to the second extension. The joint may include at least one LED disposed on each of the first extension and the second extension.