Smart Quick-Connect Fixture Mounting With Wireless Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical fixture installations require professional assistance and specialized tools, are time-consuming, and pose safety hazards due to the need for hand-wiring and mechanical connections.
Innovation Solution
A smart quick connect device with a plug and socket combination that includes a sensing unit for wireless communication and control, allowing tool-less installation and integration of electrical fixtures, featuring a releasable latch and teeth engagement for rotational stability, and a double locking mechanism for weight support.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional electrical fixture installation methods are used, then reliable electrical connection is achieved, but the installation process is time-consuming and requires professional assistance
Solution Approach 1:
The device separates electrical connection and mechanical support functions into distinct components: a plug assembly with electrical contacts and a socket assembly with mounting mechanism. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each function and simplifies the overall installation process.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention combines electrical connection and mechanical mounting functions into a single integrated operation. The plug and socket assemblies are designed to connect simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate wiring and mounting steps required by traditional methods.
2Reliability
If traditional hand-wiring methods are used, then secure electrical connection is achieved, but safety hazards arise during installation
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces manual wire stripping, twisting, and connecting operations with a mechanical plug-socket interface. The pre-assembled plug inserts into the socket to establish electrical contact, eliminating the need for installers to handle exposed conductors and reducing safety risks.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical connections are pre-established during manufacturing by assembling the plug with its contacts and the socket with its terminals. This preliminary action removes the hazardous step of making electrical connections during installation, as the connections are already secured before the device reaches the installer.
3Stability of the object's composition
If separate mechanical connections are used for fixture support, then stable mounting is achieved, but installation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges electrical connection and mechanical support into a single integrated operation. The plug assembly includes both electrical contacts and mechanical engagement features, while the socket assembly provides both electrical terminals and mounting structure. One insertion action accomplishes both electrical and mechanical connection simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The plug and socket assemblies are designed as universal components that perform multiple functions: electrical power transmission, mechanical support, and positional alignment. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate wiring and mounting operations, reducing installation time while maintaining stability.
4Adaptability or versatility
If conventional electrical connectors are used, then basic electrical connection is achieved, but wireless control and sensing capabilities are lost
Solution Approach 1:
The plug and socket assemblies are designed as universal interfaces that handle multiple functions: electrical power transmission through contacts, data communication through dedicated terminals, and wireless communication through integrated sensors and transmitters. This multi-functionality consolidates multiple subsystems into a single integrated device.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention employs a nested structure where wireless communication components (sensors, transmitters, receivers) are integrated within the plug and socket assemblies. These nested components operate independently but coordinate through the same physical interface, allowing the system to maintain electrical connection functionality while adding wireless capabilities without proportionally increasing external complexity.
Data Source
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AI summary
A device for connecting an electrical fixture with electrical power supply wiring, and for mounting the fixture on a support includes a plug, a socket, and a sensing unit for at least one of wirelessly communicating a sensed condition and wirelessly receiving a signal, with the sensing unit electrically coupled to at least one of the plug and socket. The socket includes a socket body having at least one internal cavity therein with an electrically conductive contact terminal disposed within the cavity for establishing an electrical connection between the electrical power supply wiring and the socket. The plug is rigidly fixed to the fixture and insertable into the socket, with the plug having at least one male connector electrically connected to the fixture and engageable with the contact terminal within the socket to establish a circuit between the electrical fixture and the electrical power wiring. A releasable latch is carried on the combination of the plug and the socket for releasably mounting the fixture on the support.