T-Bar Ceiling Support with Integrated Heat Sink for LED Lighting
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Solution Overview
Problem
LED lighting in dropped ceilings generates concentrated heat near electronics, leading to reduced operational life and increased HVAC load, as existing solutions fail to effectively manage heat dissipation within the conditioned space.
Innovation Solution
A T-bar system with integrated upper and lower heat sinks, including fins for enhanced natural convection, coupled with a lighting module and power supply, to efficiently transfer heat from LED sources into the space above the ceiling, thereby reducing temperature differentials and enhancing HVAC efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If LED lighting is installed in dropped ceiling, then energy consumption is reduced and lifespan is extended, but heat accumulates near electronics causing reduced operational life
Solution Approach 1:
The heat sink extracts heat from the LED lighting system and dissipates it into the unconditioned space above the dropped ceiling, separating the heat management function from the lighting function to prevent heat accumulation near electronics
Solution Approach 2:
The heat sink extends heat dissipation into the vertical dimension above the ceiling, utilizing the unconditioned space as an additional thermal management dimension rather than relying solely on horizontal heat dissipation within the conditioned space
2Use of energy by stationary object
If LED lighting is installed in dropped ceiling, then power consumption is reduced, but heat is concentrated in small space requiring additional HVAC load
Solution Approach 1:
The heat sink converts the harmful concentrated heat near electronics into a beneficial distributed heat pattern above the ceiling, transforming a thermal management problem into an integrated solution that reduces HVAC burden
3Ease of manufacture
If conventional lighting is used, then installation is simple, but heat generation increases HVAC requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The heat sink is merged with the T-bar structure itself, combining the structural support function with the thermal management function in a single integrated component, maintaining installation simplicity while adding heat dissipation capability
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 T-bar system effectively dissipates heat from LED lighting, prolonging its operational life and minimizing HVAC loads by transferring heat away from the conditioned space, thus optimizing energy efficiency and aesthetic appeal.
Implementation Method 1
The T-bar is configured to include a heat sink for dissipating heat generated by the light source
Implementation Method 2
a heat sink for dissipating heat generated by the light source
Data Source
AI summary
The T-bar includes an elongate rigid spine extending between terminal ends including either a fixed anchor or adjustable anchor for attachment to adjacent T-bars or other supports. An upper heat sink is provided on an upper portion of the spine to enhance heat transfer from the T-bar to air surrounding upper portions of the T-bar. A light housing is provided on a lower portion of the T-bar which is configured to support a lighting module therein, such as a light emitting diode (LED) light. A lower heat sink is provided above this light housing and integrated into a rest shelf which supports ceiling tiles adjacent the T-bar. A power supply is provided which can be removably attached to the T-bar and provide appropriately conditioned power for the lighting module.