Single-Piece End Cap for Lighting Fixtures
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Solution Overview
Problem
High-low-voltage (HLV) lighting fixtures have an unappealing aesthetic due to noticeable seams between end plates and mid-caps, and the complex assembly process involving multiple screws is time-consuming and costly.
Innovation Solution
A single-piece end cap design with structural tabs that attach directly to extrusion frames, eliminating the need for mid-caps and reducing the number of fasteners required, thereby simplifying assembly and enhancing aesthetics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If a multi-component design with end plates and mid-caps is used, then the structural integrity is maintained, but the aesthetic appearance deteriorates due to noticeable seams
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the end plate and mid-cap into a single integrated end cap component. This single-piece design eliminates the seam between separate components while maintaining the necessary structural functions, directly resolving the aesthetic appearance issue without requiring additional fasteners or assembly steps.
2Stability of the object's composition
If multiple screws are used to secure end plates and mid-caps, then the structural stability is improved, but the assembly time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the end plate and mid-cap into one piece, the patent eliminates multiple fastening points and reduces the number of screws required for assembly. This single-component design maintains structural stability through its integrated construction while significantly reducing assembly time and fastener count.
3Adaptability or versatility
If mid-caps and joiner caps are used for multiunit fixtures, then the modularity is achieved, but the assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The single-piece end cap is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as both the end plate and mid-cap, and can be directly attached to extrusion frames without requiring separate joiner caps. This universal design maintains modularity for multiunit fixtures while eliminating the need for additional intermediate components, thereby reducing assembly complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A single-piece end cap includes a plate, a perimeter wall extending around a perimeter of the plate. The single-piece end cap further includes structural tabs that protrude out from the plate. The structural tabs are used to attach the single-piece end cap to an extrusion frame.