Light Socket External Configuration for Decorative and Mounting Attachments
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional light sockets lack versatility in accommodating decorative and supportive attachments, and they do not efficiently secure light bulbs to power sources or supportive structures, especially for outdoor use where moisture protection and directional illumination are concerns.
Innovation Solution
A novel light socket configuration with a circumferentially extending flange adjacent the bulb opening and T-shaped mating members on the sidewall and distal surface, allowing for secure bulb attachment and cooperative engagement with caps, decorative elements, clips, or stakes, enabling flexible illumination directions and secure mounting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional sockets are used without additional configurations, then the socket structure remains simple, but the versatility in accommodating decorative attachments and mounting options is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The socket is designed with multiple functional features integrated into a single component: the flange provides both decorative attachment capability and sealing function, while the mating members enable both bulb securing and mounting to supportive structures. This multi-functionality approach allows the socket to accommodate various attachments and mounting options without requiring separate components for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The socket structure is divided into distinct functional segments: the circumferential flange for decorative attachments, the T-shaped mating members for bulb securing and mounting, and the main socket body for electrical connection. This segmentation allows each feature to be optimized independently while maintaining overall simplicity of the integrated design.
2Reliability
If conventional sockets are used without external configurations, then the manufacturing process remains simple, but the ability to secure light bulbs and provide moisture protection is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The flange and mating members are integrated into the socket body as a single molded component rather than separate parts. This merging of functions into one component maintains manufacturing simplicity while providing both secure bulb attachment and moisture protection capabilities through the unified structure.
Solution Approach 2:
Specific regions of the socket are enhanced with particular features: the circumferential flange provides localized sealing and decorative attachment capability, while the T-shaped mating members provide localized bulb securing function. This local quality enhancement allows reliable performance without requiring complex modifications throughout the entire structure.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional sockets are used, then the device remains simple, but the capability for directional illumination and versatile mounting is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The T-shaped mating members extend in multiple directions (radially and axially) from the socket body, enabling mounting in different orientations and achieving directional illumination. This three-dimensional configuration allows versatile mounting options without requiring multiple separate components or complex adjustment mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A socket for receipt of a light bulb to connect the light bulb to a power source wherein the socket has an external configuration adjacent the socket opening configured to cooperate with an attachment such as a cap or decorative element. The socket further includes an external configuration along its outer side surface and/or its bottom surface configured to cooperate with an attachment such as a mounting clip or stake.