Modified Electrical Device With Active Cover Plate
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electrical outlets and switches lack integrated functionality and flexibility, as they primarily serve as passive components, limiting their ability to provide power or communication to cover plates without advanced features or orientation versatility.
Innovation Solution
Modified electrical devices (MEDs) with active cover plates that can interface with building wiring or batteries, incorporating sensors, communication elements, and power sources, allowing for versatile installation orientations and enhanced functionality such as lighting, sensing, and control capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional outlets and switches are used, then the electrical system is simple and reliable, but the functionality is limited and cannot provide power or communication to cover plates
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical device is divided into separate functional modules: a body containing electrical connections and a separate cover plate containing electronic components. This segmentation allows the cover plate to be upgraded or modified independently while maintaining the simplicity of the underlying electrical infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover plate is designed to perform multiple functions including providing power to external devices, enabling communication between electrical devices, and offering user interaction interfaces. This multi-functionality transforms the previously passive cover plate into an active functional component.
2Adaptability or versatility
If passive cover plates are used, then the device structure is simple, but the ability to provide power or communication to external devices is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The cover plate acts as an intermediary between the electrical device body and external devices. It contains electronic components that facilitate power distribution and communication protocols, enabling the electrical device to interact with modern smart devices while maintaining compatibility with traditional electrical infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds functional dimensions to the traditional electrical device by incorporating power output ports and communication interfaces on the cover plate. This transforms the cover plate from a mere protective cover into an active interface layer that enables additional functionality without altering the core electrical device.
3Adaptability or versatility
If integrated functionality is added to outlets and switches, then the system becomes more versatile, but the installation and maintenance complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the electrical device body from the functional cover plate, the patent enables independent installation and replacement of each component. Electricians can install the simple electrical device body while leaving the more complex cover plate for later configuration or replacement, simplifying the installation process.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover plate is designed to be pre-configured with electronic components and settings before installation. This preliminary preparation reduces on-site configuration complexity and allows for easier maintenance, as the cover plate can be replaced as a complete functional unit without disturbing the electrical wiring.
Data Source
AI summary
In one example, a modified electrical device includes a body and at least one connector on the body to make power and control connections with an active cover plate. A system includes an active cover plate with low voltage circuitry and a first interface and a modified electrical device. The modified electrical device includes high voltage circuitry and a second interface to connect to the first interface to supply low voltage to the active cover plate. A method for controlling a flow of power through a modified electrical device is also provided.