Integrated Under-Cabinet Electrical Lighting Charging Unit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current electrical, lighting, and charging systems are not designed as integrated units, leading to obtrusive installations that encumber design features in kitchen environments, particularly the backsplash area between countertops and upper wall cabinets.
Innovation Solution
A system that integrates electrical receptacles, USB charging ports, and LED lighting into a single component for easy installation under cabinets, countertops, and workstations, allowing continuous power and remote control via dimmer switches or WiFi connectivity, with options for corded or hardwired applications and various control methods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If electrical receptacles, USB charging ports, and LED lighting are installed as separate components, then each component can be independently selected and installed, but the installation becomes obtrusive and encumbers design features particularly in the backsplash area
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines electrical receptacles, USB charging ports, and LED lighting into a single integrated under-cabinet unit. This merging eliminates the need for separate installations in the backsplash area, removing visual clutter while maintaining all individual functions. The integrated design allows these components to work together as one cohesive unit that blends seamlessly into cabinet structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated unit serves multiple functions simultaneously: providing electrical power through receptacles, charging devices via USB ports, and providing illumination through LED lighting. This multi-functional design consolidates what would traditionally require three separate installations into one universal component that addresses multiple user needs in the kitchen workspace area.
2Shape
If electrical devices are integrated into a single unit under cabinets, then design aesthetics are maintained and backsplash area remains unencumbered, but installation and control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated unit is designed as a modular assembly with distinct sections for receptacles, USB ports, and LED lighting. This segmentation allows for simplified installation where each functional module can be independently connected to its power source and control system. The modular structure reduces installation complexity compared to a fully integrated monolithic design while maintaining the aesthetic benefits of consolidation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates a GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) device as an intermediary safety component within the integrated unit. This GFCI serves as a mediator that protects all three functions (receptacles, USB ports, and LED lighting) by monitoring and controlling the electrical circuit. This centralized safety mechanism simplifies installation by providing unified protection rather than requiring separate GFCI devices for each component.
3Ease of operation
If continuous power is maintained at receptacle and USB charging port locations, then uninterrupted electrical access is provided, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated unit employs dynamic control where the receptacles and USB charging ports can be selectively activated or deactivated. Rather than maintaining continuous power to all components, the system allows users to dynamically control power delivery based on actual usage needs. This dynamic approach maintains uninterrupted access when needed while reducing energy consumption when the outlets are not in use.
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
Enables seamless integration of electrical, lighting, and charging systems, hiding them behind molding or within cabinetry, providing user-friendly installation options for DIYers and professionals, maintaining design aesthetics while ensuring safety and functionality.
Implementation Method 1
LED lighting
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure includes a system and method for integrating a power system having one or more electrical receptacles, a charging system having one or more USB charging ports, and a lighting system into one component for ease of installation and use in any environment including, for example, under cabinets, above and below countertops, at workstations, desks, overhangs, or other areas. The wiring may be split at the entrance into the chassis. Continuous power may be maintained at the receptacle locations while also powering the LED lighting via a control device such as, for example, a slide dimmer, an in-line dimmer, a wall-mounted dimmer control device, a remote control, or a WiFi connectivity device. The use of an in-line GFCI device may also be incorporated into the complete system.