Double-Ended Lamp Socket with Rotating Contacts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional double-ended socket assemblies pose risks of electrical shock, incorrect installation leading to arc discharge, and require two hands for installation, making them unsafe and inconvenient for users.
Innovation Solution
A double-ended socket system with rotating sockets that can only be energized when both ends of the lamp are properly seated, preventing electrical shock and allowing one-handed installation and removal, featuring a disengaged orientation that prevents energization until both ends are securely seated.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional double-ended socket assemblies are used, then electrical connections can be made, but users are at risk of electrical shock when installing the lamp
Solution Approach 1:
The socket assembly is designed so that the socket rotates to the engaged orientation only after both lamp ends are inserted into both sockets. This preliminary condition ensures that electrical connections are not established until the lamp is fully and correctly installed, eliminating the risk of electrical shock during installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The socket is designed to rotate dynamically between a disengaged orientation (where electrical contacts are isolated) and an engaged orientation (where electrical connections are made). This dynamic transition allows the system to adapt its electrical state based on the installation progress, ensuring safety during the installation process.
2Ease of operation
If conventional double-ended socket assemblies are used, then lamp installation is possible, but incorrect installation can lead to electrical arc discharge
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates a mechanical feedback mechanism where the rotation of the socket to the engaged orientation is contingent upon both lamp ends being properly inserted. This feedback ensures that electrical connections are only made when the lamp is correctly installed, preventing electrical arc discharge caused by incorrect installation.
3Productivity
If conventional double-ended socket assemblies are used, then lamp installation can be completed, but two hands are required for installation
Solution Approach 1:
The socket assembly is designed to automatically rotate from the disengaged to the engaged orientation once both lamp ends are inserted. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for users to manually manipulate retention components with their other hand, allowing installation to be completed with one hand and improving operational ease.
Data Source
AI summary
A double-ended socket system for safely and easily seating a double-ended lamp is disclosed. The system has two socket assemblies spaced a distance corresponding to the length of a double-ended lamp. Each socket assembly has a housing with a recess that houses a cylindrical socket for receiving a lamp end that rotates between a disengaged orientation and an engaged orientation. The housing has an attached electrical connector connected to a power source. The socket has another attached electrical connector that contacts the electrical connector of the housing only when the socket is rotated to the engaged orientation, thus eliminating the electrical shock hazard of conventional double-ended socket systems. The lamp may be removed only while in the disengaged orientation. A user may install a double-ended lamp into the socket system by use of only one hand. A method of use of a double-ended socket system is also disclosed.