Optional DC Sensor Retrofit in Light Fixture Housing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Customers face an unnecessary economic burden when purchasing light fixtures with pre-installed sensors, as they must pay extra for a feature they may not need, and existing solutions lack a simple and cost-effective method for retrofitting or configuring sensors on new units.
Innovation Solution
A light fixture design that allows optional retrofitting or configuration of DC lighting sensors, featuring pre-cut holes for sensor installation, which can be plugged into existing circuits, and held in place using magnets or screws, providing a clean aesthetic by hiding the sensor inside the fixture.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If sensors are pre-installed on light fixtures, then motion detection and ambient light sensing capabilities are provided, but customers face unnecessary economic burden by paying increased price for fixtures they may not need
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the light fixture into modular components: the base fixture without sensor and the sensor as a separate optional module. This segmentation allows customers to purchase fixtures based on their needs, reducing unnecessary costs while maintaining manufacturing efficiency through standardized base units.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables dynamic configuration of sensors in light fixtures. Sensors can be optionally added or removed based on customer requirements, transforming the fixture from a static product to a dynamically configurable system that adapts to different application needs.
2Adaptability or versatility
If sensors are retrofitted onto existing light fixtures, then customers can add sensor functionality without purchasing new fixtures, but traditional retrofitting methods compromise aesthetic appearance by making sensors visible on the outside
Solution Approach 1:
The patent embeds the sensor within the fixture housing, nesting the sensor component inside the existing fixture structure. This nesting approach allows sensor retrofitting while maintaining the fixture's original aesthetic appearance, as the sensor is concealed within the housing rather than mounted externally.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mounting structure that interfaces between the sensor and the fixture housing. This intermediary component facilitates sensor installation while concealing the sensor within the fixture, resolving the conflict between retrofit capability and aesthetic appearance.
3Adaptability or versatility
If sensors are retrofitted onto existing light fixtures, then sensor functionality can be added to existing units, but traditional installation methods increase installation time and complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates pre-configured mounting features and pre-wired connection points in the fixture housing before the sensor installation step. This preliminary preparation of mounting structures and electrical connections significantly reduces the time and complexity of the actual sensor retrofitting process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs the sensor mounting system to be self-aligning and self-securing, allowing the sensor to be easily installed without requiring complex tools or extensive technical expertise. The fixture housing provides built-in mounting features that automatically guide and secure the sensor in place.
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
This approach reduces costs and simplifies installation, offering customers the option to add sensors only when needed, resulting in cost savings and a more streamlined installation process while maintaining a clean appearance.
Implementation Method 1
A DC sensor is used as an alternative to an AC sensor
Implementation Method 2
sensors can be used to activate the light fixture or otherwise change the operational state of the light
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein is a light fixture including a fixture body for supporting a light source. An aperture is formed in the fixture body, sized and proportioned for receiving a sensor for activating at least one light source received in the fixture body. A removable cover is provided for covering the aperture until the sensor is optionally installed. A power supply provides electrical power to the light source. The sensor includes a photocell that detects a predetermined low light level to activate the light source. A motion sensor detects a predetermined motion level to activate the light source. A timer measures a predetermined period of time of no movement at the motion sensor to reduce the light level. A retaining structure retains the sensor in the aperture formed in the fixture body.