Modular In-Wall Power Adapter Recess for Safer Control Upgrades
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power adapter systems in residential and commercial buildings face challenges such as high replacement costs, risk of homeowner injury during installation, limited flexibility in configuring multi-switch power control arrangements, and increased inventory costs for manufacturers and distributors due to the need for various types of switches and control modules.
Innovation Solution
An in-wall power adapter system with a modular design that includes a recess for a control module, allowing for easy installation and configuration of different power control functionalities, such as wireless communication and dimming, using a single pole, single throw (SPST) or single pole, double throw (SPDT) switches, which can be controlled remotely or through motion sensors, enabling flexible power management and reduced inventory needs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a homeowner replaces a power adapter to add functionality, then the power control capabilities are improved, but the installation cost and safety risk increase due to professional installation requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The power adapter is divided into two separate modules: a power adapter module and a control module. The control module can be independently installed into the power adapter module, allowing users to upgrade functionality without replacing the entire device. This segmentation enables safe, user-friendly installation while maintaining advanced power control capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The control module is designed with universal compatibility to work with multiple types of power adapters. A single control module can provide various functions (timing control, motion detection, dimming) across different power adapter models, reducing the need for multiple specialized devices and simplifying installation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manufacturers maintain a large inventory of different power adapter types to provide variety, then customer options are improved, but the inventory cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control module serves multiple functions and is compatible with various power adapter types. Instead of manufacturing different specialized power adapters for timing control, motion detection, and dimming, the system uses a single universal control module that can be installed on different power adapter models, significantly reducing inventory requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
By separating the control functionality into an independent module, the system allows customers to mix and match different power adapter bases with various control modules. This segmentation enables product variety without requiring manufacturers to maintain separate inventories for each configuration.
3Ease of operation
If conventional switches are used in multi-switch power control arrangements, then the switching functionality is achieved, but the flexibility to install different features is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the basic switching function (performed by conventional switches) from the advanced control features (provided by the control module). This segmentation allows conventional switches to maintain their reliable switching functionality while the independently installable control module adds flexibility for different features like timing, motion detection, and dimming.
Data Source
AI summary
An in-wall power adapter adapted to receive a voltage is described. The in-wall power adapter may comprise a first plurality of contact elements comprising a first contact element adapted to receive a line voltage signal, a second contact element adapted to receive a neutral voltage, a third contact element adapted to receive a ground voltage, and a fourth contact element adapted to receive a communication signal; a recess adapted to receive a control module; a switch having a first terminal coupled to receive the line voltage; and a second plurality of contact elements associated with the recess and comprising a fifth contact element adapted to receive the communication signal.