Modular lighting system and method employing loosely constrained magnetic structures

Number of patents in Portfolio can not be more than 2000

United States of America Patent

PATENT NO 8651711
APP PUB NO 20130044501A1
SERIAL NO

13211533

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Abstract

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A lighting system including modules containing LEDs or other electroluminescent devices and loosely constrained magnetic structures at least partially contained within cavities in the module substrate that are connected to fixtures under magnetic force. The loosely constrained magnetic structures accommodate mechanical variations in the system and provide a method to connect modules mechanically, electrically and thermally to different fixtures or positions in fixtures without tools. The relatively short distance separating magnetic structures provides high connection forces with the use of relatively small magnets. Magnets and electrical contacts are not located directly between the LED subassembly and the fixture, which provides higher thermal conductivity pathways to remove heat from the LEDs. Biasing members may be used to increase thermal contact. Magnetic structures may, but are not required, to conduct electricity. Fixtures that attach to modules include rails, sockets, heat sinks and two-dimensional structures with recessed electrodes for improved electrical safety.

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Patent Owner(s)

Patent OwnerAddress
APEX TECHNOLOGIES INC3908 BAMBURGH LANE APEX NC 27539

International Classification(s)

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Inventor(s)

Inventor Name Address # of filed Patents Total Citations
Rudisill, Charles A Apex, US 11 833
Whittle, Daniel John Bellingham, US 13 513

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