Lighting Fixture Socket Interface for In-Field Accessory Retrofitting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solid-state lighting fixtures require factory mounting of sensors and accessories due to internal wiring, making in-field retrofitting costly and time-intensive.
Innovation Solution
A socket and plug system is integrated into the lighting fixture, allowing for easy in-field mounting of accessories by providing direct-current voltage power and signal transmission without disassembly, using standardized connections such as audio jack and USB ports.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If sensors and accessories are factory mounted with internal wiring, then reliable electrical connection and signal transmission are achieved, but in-field retrofitting becomes costly and time-intensive requiring disassembly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the lighting fixture into modular components: a main fixture body and separate accessory modules with integrated wiring. Each accessory is pre-assembled as a self-contained unit with its own power and signal connections, allowing independent installation without disassembling the main fixture. This segmentation enables reliable factory-mounted wiring while facilitating easy in-field retrofitting through simple module replacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary connection interface between the fixture and accessories, utilizing standardized connectors (such as USB-C, Bluetooth modules, or wireless communication interfaces) that serve as mediators for power and signal transmission. This intermediary layer eliminates the need for direct internal wiring modifications, maintaining reliable electrical connections while enabling flexible in-field accessory installation through plug-and-play connectivity.
2Reliability
If internal wiring is used for sensor connection, then proper power supply and signal transmission are achieved, but retrofitting requires disassembly of the fixture
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universal connection interfaces that can accommodate multiple types of accessories (sensors, controllers, lighting modules) through standardized ports. The fixture includes multi-functional connection points that can provide both power supply and data communication simultaneously, allowing various accessories to be retrofitted using the same interface protocol. This universality maintains reliable power and signal transmission while significantly reducing retrofitting complexity through standardized, repeatable connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates pre-configured connection interfaces and wiring harnesses during fixture manufacturing that are ready for accessory attachment. The internal wiring architecture is designed in advance with accessible connection points and modular bus structures that enable accessories to be connected without disassembling the fixture body. This preliminary preparation ensures reliable power and signal transmission pathways are already in place, eliminating the need for complex in-field wiring modifications.
3Reliability
If accessories are factory mounted, then proper wiring and connection are ensured, but in-field installation becomes costly and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nested modular architecture where accessories are pre-assembled as self-contained units with integrated wiring and connection interfaces. Each accessory module is nested within its own housing with internal wiring already connected to standardized interfaces, allowing the entire accessory assembly to be installed as a single unit. This nesting approach ensures proper wiring and connection reliability while dramatically increasing retrofitting speed, as installers simply need to connect the pre-assembled modules rather than performing complex wiring procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
A solid-state lighting fixture assembly having a lighting fixture with a socket configured to receive a plug associated with one or more accessories to allow for easy in-field mounting of accessories, e.g., controls, onto installed lighting fixtures. The socket may be internally electrically connected to an auxiliary power output of a driver and/or to a battery power pack within the lighting fixture assembly, thereby providing direct-current voltage power for the accessory and, also, allowing for signal transmission to and from the accessory. Each accessory includes one or more sensors and communication components to provide the connected lighting fixture assembly with specific capabilities including, but not limited to, motion detection, ambient light level detection, ambient temperature measurement and wireless communications. The wireless communication can also be used to control one or a group of lighting fixtures and transmit sensor data associated with, for example, monitoring space utilization and asset tracking.