Inverted Post Lantern Socket Wiring for 12V Gas Retrofit
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing post lantern lighting systems face challenges in converting natural gas burning lanterns to electric, as available products are primarily 110 volts, not adaptable to 12 volts, and do not adequately simulate the traditional gas lighting experience, leading to safety issues, high replacement costs, and loss of aesthetic and historical value.
Innovation Solution
A retrofit device and post lantern electric wiring system that converts high voltage to low voltage using a copper bulb socket housing assembly with inverted sockets and parallel wiring, compatible with 12-volt and 24-volt systems, incorporating dusk to dawn sensors and single contact bayonet bulbs for energy efficiency and safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If 110-volt conversion devices are used to convert gas lighting to electric, then electric illumination is achieved, but safety issues arise including shock incidents, short circuiting, and power surge risks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the voltage parameter from 110V to 12V operating voltage. The conversion device transforms 110V mains power to 12V low voltage, which is then distributed through the post lantern system. This parameter change eliminates shock hazards, short circuiting risks, and power surge dangers while maintaining reliable electric illumination.
2Illumination intensity
If 110-volt single bulb fixtures are used, then electric lighting is provided, but the traditional gas lighting aesthetic and historical value are lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the illumination into multiple bulbs (typically three) arranged to simulate the appearance of traditional gas lighting mantles. Each bulb is housed in separate sockets positioned to replicate the multi-flame effect of gas mantles, preserving the historical aesthetic while providing efficient electric lighting.
Solution Approach 2:
The conversion device copies the visual appearance of traditional gas lighting by arranging multiple clear or frosted glass bulbs in configurations that mimic gas mantle flames. The clear bulbs with visible filaments replicate the glow of gas mantles, while frosted bulbs can be used to soften the light and enhance the historical aesthetic.
3Ease of manufacture
If plastic components are used in the conversion device housing, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but the components melt and deform over time due to bulb heat
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs composite construction combining heat-resistant materials (metal housing, ceramic sockets) with plastic components positioned away from heat sources. The housing and socket areas experience high temperatures and use thermally stable materials, while plastic is used only in non-heat-exposed areas for cost-effective manufacturing of external casings and mounting structures.
4Ease of operation
If upright bulb sockets are used, then installation is simplified, but condensation collects in the sockets leading to deterioration and short circuiting
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the bulb socket orientation so that the bulb base and electrical contacts are positioned at the top rather than the bottom. This inversion prevents condensation and moisture from collecting in the electrical contacts, eliminating the deterioration and short circuiting problems associated with upright sockets while maintaining ease of installation.
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
The solution provides a safer, cost-efficient, and energy-conserving conversion of natural gas burning lanterns to electric, reducing replacement needs, enhancing safety, and preserving the aesthetic and historical value of gas lighting while reducing energy costs and community expenses.
Implementation Method 1
A retrofit device and post lantern electric wiring system that converts high voltage to low voltage using a copper bulb socket housing assembly with inverted sockets and parallel wiring
Implementation Method 2
single contact bayonet bulbs for energy efficiency and safety
Implementation Method 3
incandescent or LED simulation of gas lighting
Implementation Method 4
incorporating dusk to dawn sensors
Data Source
AI summary
Device and wiring system of present invention allows for conversion of natural gas powered and 110 voltage post lantern lights to 12-volt or 24 volt electric energy by utilizing a copper bulb housing, attached to a stem, being hollow, wherein two center contact wires extend from stem, a third center contact wire being soldered to a copper ring, fitting into bulb housing stem sleeve groove. The soldered center contact wire being utilized for 12 volt wiring, and ignored for 24 volt wiring. Device wires are wired to separate center contact wires extending within post lantern pole, across residential lawns, to a transformer, plugging into a residential type (110 volt) power line. Device replaces previous gas or 110 electric fixture components with utilization of inverted bulb device and invention's wiring procedure, comprising copper ring soldered to center contract wire for 12 volt, and ignoring soldered wire for 24 volts.