Electromechanical Connector for Chandelier Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation of large and heavy luminaries onto ceiling electrical boxes is cumbersome, often requiring two people for mechanical and electrical connections, making the process inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A connector system comprising a first connector member mechanically connected to the ceiling electric box and a second connector member with a loop member for luminaire connection, allowing for sliding integration with guide tracks and secure electro-mechanical connection using resilient clips and non-conductive materials for easy installation and removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional mechanical and electrical connection methods are used for installing heavy luminaries, then secure connection is achieved, but installation complexity increases and requires multiple people
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines mechanical connection and electrical connection into a single integrated connector assembly. The connector includes both mechanical fastening elements (screws, clips) and electrical contact elements (terminals, conductors) that work together as one unit, allowing simultaneous mechanical and electrical connection when the luminaire is mounted to the ceiling box.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a connector as an intermediary component between the ceiling box and the luminaire. This connector mediates the connection process by providing pre-assembled mechanical and electrical connection elements that simplify the interface between the two components, reducing the complexity of direct connection.
2Productivity
If heavy luminaries are installed using traditional methods, then stable connection is achieved, but installation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is pre-assembled with all mechanical fastening elements and electrical connection elements prepared in advance. The conductors are pre-attached to the electrical terminals, and the mechanical fasteners are pre-positioned, so that when the luminaire is installed, no additional assembly steps are required on-site.
3Reliability
If resilient electrical connection clips are used, then electrical connection security is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical connection clips are made from resilient material with specific elastic properties that allow them to deform and grip the electrical conductors securely. The material parameters (elasticity, hardness) are selected to provide reliable electrical connection while maintaining manufacturability through standard molding processes.
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
Enables single-person installation and removal of luminaries by facilitating secure mechanical and electrical connections without lifting, enhancing efficiency and safety.
Implementation Method 1
The electrical connection clips being resiliently deformable so as to provide a secure electro-mechanical connection onto the pins
Data Source
AI summary
A connector for mechanically and electrically connecting a luminaire to a ceiling electric box comprises a first connector member and a second connector member wherein the first connector member is mechanically connected to the ceiling electric box using mechanical fasteners passing through openings, and the first connector member is electrically connected by way of line wires. A second connector member is used, along with a loop member, for mechanically and electrically connecting a luminaire. The loop member has a hollow bolt member to allow for electric wires coming from the luminaire to pass through and electrically connect to pins located inside the second connector member.