Wall-Wash Trim Assembly with RF-Transparent Support for Wireless Signals
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lighting devices using LED light sources face challenges in efficiently transmitting wireless control signals due to interference from metallic components, which obstruct or attenuate the propagation of electromagnetic waves.
Innovation Solution
A lighting device assembly with a non-conductive plate and support structure that minimizes interference by allowing wireless communication signals to be transmitted and received through a RF-transparent portion, ensuring alignment and support of the trim portion within the housing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If metallic components are used in the lighting device assembly, then structural strength and support are improved, but wireless signal transmission and reception are worsened due to interference and attenuation
Solution Approach 1:
The housing is divided into distinct metallic and non-conductive portions, with the non-conductive plate specifically positioned to support the trim portion while the metallic components are segmented to minimize interference with wireless signal paths
Solution Approach 2:
A non-conductive plate is introduced as an intermediary component between the metallic housing structure and the wireless communication circuit, allowing the plate to provide mechanical support while blocking the harmful electromagnetic interference from the metallic components
2Adaptability or versatility
If the lighting device assembly is allowed to move or tilt within the housing, then adaptability and ease of installation are improved, but wireless signal transmission is worsened due to misalignment and obstruction
Solution Approach 1:
The wireless communication circuit is extracted from the trim portion and relocated to the housing, specifically positioned on the non-conductive plate. This separation allows the lighting device assembly to move or tilt independently without compromising wireless signal transmission, as the circuit remains in a stable, protected location
3Reliability
If a non-conductive plate is added to support the trim portion, then wireless signal transmission is improved by reducing interference, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The non-conductive plate serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical support for the trim portion, acts as a mounting surface for the wireless communication circuit, and functions as an electromagnetic shield to block interference from metallic components. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components
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 the transmission and reception of wireless control signals by reducing attenuation and obstruction, maintaining effective communication even when the lighting device assembly is misaligned or tilted within the housing.
Implementation Method 1
Existing lighting devices using LED light sources face challenges in efficiently transmitting wireless control signals due to interference from metallic components, which obstruct or attenuate the propagation of electromagnetic waves
Implementation Method 2
A lighting device assembly with a non-conductive plate and support structure that minimizes interference by allowing wireless communication signals to be transmitted and received through a RF-transparent portion
Data Source
AI summary
The lighting device may include a housing configured to be installed within a building structure and to at least partially enclose a lighting device assembly. The housing may include a lower plate and a trim portion that defines an aperture that extends in a plane and is circular-shaped. The aperture may be configured to enable the light emitted by the emitter assembly to be transmitted out of the housing. The trim portion may be located within a fixture opening in the lower plate. The trim portion may include a body and a lens. The lens may be configured to cover the lens opening of the body of the trim portion. The lens may be arranged at an angle with respect to the plane of the aperture of the trim portion.