Shelf Lighting Extrusion With Reflective Surfaces for Hidden Illumination
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lighting devices for shelves and displays are inefficient in terms of energy usage and heat dissipation, and lack customization and durability, while also being visibly prominent due to their design.
Innovation Solution
The development of low-profile lighting devices with angled reflective surfaces and integrated lenses to optimize light emission, combined with power transfer devices for daisy-chaining, allowing for customizable and efficient illumination in various configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If traditional lighting devices are used to illuminate shelves and displays, then sufficient light output is achieved, but energy consumption is high and heat generation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from traditional incandescent/fluorescent lighting to LED technology, fundamentally changing the operating parameters of the light source. LEDs operate at lower voltages and currents while producing comparable or superior light output, directly reducing energy consumption and heat generation while maintaining illumination intensity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional bulb-based lighting systems with solid-state LED arrays mounted on circuit boards. This substitution eliminates the need for glass envelopes, filaments, and gas-filled tubes, resulting in a more efficient energy conversion system that produces less waste heat and consumes less energy for the same light output
2Illumination intensity
If lighting devices are made visible to provide adequate illumination, then light output is sufficient, but the devices become readily noticeable and aesthetically undesirable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the lighting devices in a low-profile configuration mounted beneath shelves, utilizing the vertical space efficiently. The lights are arranged to emit illumination downward and forward, creating a lighting function without occupying visible horizontal space, thus achieving sufficient illumination while maintaining aesthetic concealment
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses reflective surfaces and strategic positioning to mediate between the light source and the illuminated area. By mounting LEDs on the underside of shelves and utilizing the shelf structure itself as a mounting surface and reflector, the system achieves adequate light distribution while keeping the light-emitting components hidden from direct view
3Reliability
If lighting devices are designed for high durability and longevity, then reliability increases, but device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the LED components, circuit board, and mounting structure into a unified assembly. The LEDs are directly mounted on the circuit board which in turn is attached to the shelf structure, eliminating the need for separate housings, lenses, and mounting mechanisms. This consolidation simplifies manufacturing while maintaining the inherent durability of LED technology
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs a universal mounting system that can be adapted to various shelf types and configurations. The circuit board serves multiple functions: electrical connection, mechanical support, and thermal management. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, simplifying both manufacturing and installation while ensuring reliable operation across different applications
4Shape
If lighting devices are designed to be low-profile and hidden, then aesthetic appearance improves, but light distribution and coverage may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs multiple LED units distributed along the circuit board, with each LED providing localized illumination. By strategically positioning LEDs at different locations and angles, the system achieves uniform light distribution across the shelf surface while maintaining a low-profile hidden mounting configuration
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the lighting function into multiple discrete LED segments distributed along the shelf length. This segmentation allows each LED to be positioned optimally for its local illumination task while collectively providing comprehensive coverage. The modular nature of individual LEDs mounted on the circuit board enables flexible arrangement to achieve both aesthetic concealment and effective light distribution
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 improved light optimization, reduced energy consumption, increased durability, and the ability to be mounted in a low-profile, hidden manner, enhancing the visibility of products while minimizing heat and energy usage.
Implementation Method 1
the second surface is substantially reflective... at least a portion of the light emitted from the one or more light emitting devices reflects off the second surface
Data Source
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.