Cordless Spike Light Socket Weatherproofing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional outdoor light fixtures with exposed electrical cords are prone to ground faults and electrocution due to water exposure, as the cords can rest on the ground and be submerged in puddles, posing a safety hazard.
Innovation Solution
The design includes a housing and socket configuration with a shroud that keeps the electrical connection above ground, using a socket with an insulator and skirt to create a seal and prevent water ingress, and a gasket to form a weatherproof enclosure around the electrical components, ensuring the connection remains dry and safe.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a cord extends from the back of the fixture for electrical connection, then the light fixture can be connected to an electrical cord extension, but the cord may rest on the ground and be exposed to water creating ground fault or electrocution risk
Solution Approach 1:
The patent embeds the electrical connection components (socket, plug, cord) within the housing structure. The housing contains a cavity that accommodates the cord and electrical components, nesting them within the protective enclosure rather than allowing external exposure.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing acts as an intermediary protective barrier between the electrical components and the external environment. The housing material and structure serve as a mediator that prevents water and harmful factors from reaching the electrical connection points while still allowing electrical functionality to operate.
2Ease of manufacture
If the cord and electrical cord extension are exposed to the elements, then installation is simple, but ground fault or electrocution risk increases due to water or rain exposure
Solution Approach 1:
The housing is constructed as a protective shell that encloses the electrical components. This shell structure provides weatherproofing and protection from water and rain while maintaining the simplicity of the overall installation process.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing provides preliminary protection against water and electrical hazards before any water exposure can occur. By pre-enclosing the electrical components within the housing structure, the design prevents water ingress and eliminates ground fault risks from the outset.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the light fixture is positioned slightly off the ground for spike light configuration, then installation flexibility is improved, but the cord will ultimately rest on the ground exposing it to elements
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical components are nested within the housing structure, which itself is mounted on the spike. This nested arrangement allows the fixture to be positioned slightly off the ground for flexibility while the housing protects the cord from ground contact, eliminating the exposure risk.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing provides vertical protection by enclosing the electrical components in a three-dimensional space above the ground level. This dimensional transition moves the electrical components from ground-level exposure to an elevated, protected position within the housing cavity.
Data Source
AI summary
An outdoor light fixture includes a housing and a socket. The housing has a first opening, a second opening, and a shroud extending at least partially around the second opening. A locating ring is positioned between the first opening and the second opening. The socket is located in the housing and has an insulator and a skirt. The skirt positions the socket relative to the locating ring.