Dual-Mode Dimmable Receptacle With Plug Adapter Switch
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current solutions for dimming table and floor lamps are either inadequate, aesthetically unpleasing, or do not meet National Electrical Code (NEC) regulations, often requiring non-standard receptacles and limiting the use of standard appliances.
Innovation Solution
A dual-mode electric receptacle system that operates in both standard and dimmable modes, using a plug adapter to switch between modes by controlling a bypass switch, allowing for aesthetically pleasing and straightforward installation while meeting NEC standards.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a standard dimmer is wired to the receptacle to dim table or floor lamps, then dimming control is achieved, but the receptacle must be replaced with a non-standard receptacle to meet NEC regulations
Solution Approach 1:
The invention separates the dimming control function from the power delivery function. The receptacle is divided into a standard NEMA 5-15R power outlet and a separate dimming control module with its own interface, allowing each to operate independently according to its optimal design standards.
Solution Approach 2:
A separate dimming control module acts as an intermediary between the user and the lamp. This module receives dimming commands through its own interface and controls the lamp accordingly, without requiring modification of the standard receptacle or plug configurations.
2Ease of operation
If a non-standard receptacle is installed to meet NEC regulations with a dimmer, then dimming is enabled, but standard appliances with unmodified plugs cannot be used
Solution Approach 1:
The receptacle maintains universal compatibility by preserving the standard NEMA 5-15R configuration for power delivery. The added dimming control module provides additional functionality without interfering with the universal acceptance of standard plugs for any appliance.
Solution Approach 2:
The system segments the dimming control from the power receptacle, allowing the receptacle to remain a standard universal interface while the dimming function is provided separately for compatible loads only.
3Ease of operation
If a plug-in dimmer module is used between the lamp plug and receptacle, then dimming control is achieved, but the module is bulky and unsightly
Solution Approach 1:
The dimming control interface is merged with the wall plate surrounding the receptacle, creating a unified, compact assembly. This eliminates the need for separate bulky plug-in dimmer modules and provides a clean, integrated aesthetic appearance.
4Ease of operation
If a screw-in lamp base adapter with dimming circuitry is used, then dimming control is achieved, but lamp shades move out of position and it only works on lamps with sufficient space
Solution Approach 1:
The dimming control circuitry is extracted from the lamp assembly itself and relocated to a wall-mounted control module. This removes the physical interference with lamp shades and allows the solution to work with any lamp type regardless of space constraints within the lamp structure.
5Ease of operation
If the receptacle is modified to accommodate dimmer control, then dimming is enabled, but installation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The dimming control module is merged with the existing wall plate assembly, allowing installation during the same wall plate installation process. This integration eliminates the need for separate complex modifications to the receptacle or additional wiring changes.
Data Source
AI summary
An electric receptacle capable of operating in a dimmable mode and a standard mode comprises an opening for receipt of an adapter. The adapter is received by the electric receptacle and switches the electric receptacle from the standard mode to the dimmable mode. The adapter is dimensioned to fit over a standard plug and the electric receptacle is configured to receive a standard plug.