Shelf Light Assembly with Expansion Gap for Thermal Movement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical connection systems for objects in shelving systems lack a safe, reliable, and visually unobtrusive method to provide electrical signals while maintaining structural integrity and ease of manufacturing.
Innovation Solution
A shelf light assembly with a trim-mounted light assembly, featuring end cap housings and an expansion gap for longitudinal movement, which includes electrical connectors for power and data transmission, and is designed for easy installation and thermal expansion compensation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the light assembly is rigidly attached to the end cap housing, then structural integrity is improved, but thermal expansion accommodation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the light assembly movable within the end cap housing through a slot and spring mechanism. The spring-loaded plunger allows the light assembly to move longitudinally along the trim to accommodate thermal expansion and contraction, while maintaining electrical connection through flexible printed circuit boards. This dynamic design resolves the contradiction between structural integrity and thermal expansion accommodation.
2Ease of manufacture
If the electrical connection system is made visible, then ease of assembly is improved, but aesthetic appearance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the nesting principle by concealing the electrical connection components within the end cap housing structure. The flexible printed circuit boards and electrical connectors are nested inside the housing, with only necessary external connection points exposed. This allows easy assembly through the trim while maintaining aesthetic appearance by hiding the electrical components from view.
3Reliability
If the light assembly is firmly fixed, then reliability of electrical connection is improved, but accommodation of movement deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the flexible shells and thin films principle by using flexible printed circuit boards to connect the light assembly to the electrical connectors. These flexible circuits maintain reliable electrical connection while accommodating the longitudinal movement of the light assembly within the end cap housing. The flexible nature of these thin film circuits resolves the contradiction between connection reliability and movement accommodation.
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 solution provides a safe, reliable, and aesthetically pleasing electrical connection system that supports structural integrity and accommodates thermal expansion, ensuring reliable operation and extended lifespan.
Implementation Method 1
An expansion gap is located between the second end cap housing and the second side of the light assembly to support movement of the light assembly relative to the second end cap housing longitudinally along the trim
Data Source
AI summary
A shelf light assembly is provided that includes a trim configured to mount to a shelf, a light assembly including a plurality of lights, a first end cap housing, and a second end cap housing. The light assembly is mounted to the trim. The first end cap housing is mounted to the trim on a first side of the light assembly. The second end cap housing is mounted to the trim on a second side of the light assembly. The first side is opposite the second side. The first end cap housing is attached to the first side of the light assembly. An expansion gap is located between the second end cap housing and the second side of the light assembly to support movement of the light assembly relative to the second end cap housing longitudinally along the trim.