Shelf lighting device and method
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current lighting devices for illuminating shelves and displays are not optimized for light efficiency, durability, and energy usage, and lack customization options for various applications, with visible profiles and limited power transfer capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A low-profile lighting device with an elongated extrusion featuring an angled reflective surface and integrated reflector, allowing customizable light direction and energy efficiency, along with power transfer devices for daisy-chaining to power multiple units, enabling horizontal and vertical layouts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If lighting devices are made low-profile to be hidden in shelves, then visibility of the device is reduced, but light output and illumination effectiveness deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from vertical light emission (upward or downward) to horizontal light emission along the length of the extrusion. The LED array is positioned to emit light horizontally, and the reflector surfaces are angled to redirect this light onto the shelf, achieving effective illumination while maintaining a low-profile vertical dimension.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different surface properties to different parts of the extrusion: the first and second surfaces are made substantially reflective to redirect light onto the shelf, while the third surface remains transparent or translucent to allow light passage. This localized differentiation of surface properties optimizes light distribution from each surface according to its specific function.
2Ease of manufacture
If fixed-angle reflectors are used in lighting devices, then manufacturing is simplified, but adaptability to different shelving configurations is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the reflector assembly dynamic by allowing the integrated reflector to rotate or adjust its angle relative to the LED array and extrusion. This adjustment mechanism enables the lighting device to adapt to different shelving depths, angles, and configurations while maintaining simple manufacturing of the individual components.
3Device complexity
If LEDs are mounted to emit light in fixed directions, then device complexity is reduced, but light optimization and directionality are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the lighting device into distinct functional components: the LED array for light generation, the integrated reflector for light redirection, and the adjustable mounting mechanism for positioning. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while working together to achieve superior light directionality and intensity control.
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 enhances light optimization, durability, and energy efficiency while allowing for customizable lighting solutions that are aesthetically pleasing and can be easily mounted on various structures, providing efficient illumination with reduced heat and energy consumption.
Implementation Method 1
the second surface is substantially reflective
Implementation Method 2
one or more light emitting devices mounted at the first surface of the extrusion
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention provides various embodiments for apparatuses, systems, and methods for lighting devices used in shelving, displays, and the like. Some embodiments provide lighting device comprising elongated extrusions with a first surface and a second surface proximate the first surface. The second surface may be reflective. One or more light emitting devices may be mounted at the first surface of the extrusion. The first surface is angled with respect to the second surface such that at least a portion of the light emitted from the light emitting devices reaches the second surface. If the second surface is reflective, at least a portion of the emitted light will be reflected from the second surface. A protective and possibly light diffusive lens may be provided between the first and second surfaces. In other embodiments, lighting systems may be provided with a plurality of lighting devices as described above. One or more power transfer devices may be provided to connect the lighting devices in vertical and/or horizontal arrangements, and at least one power supply may be provided to power the power transfer devices and lighting devices. Additionally, dimmer devices with integrated sensors may be included to dim the lighting devices when reduced illumination is desired.