Universal Retrofit Light Mounting Box with Audio Video
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing outdoor light fixtures often cannot be upgraded to include advanced features like wireless video and audio capabilities due to structural and wiring constraints, and replacing them entirely can be costly and cumbersome.
Innovation Solution
A universal retrofit light mounting box that connects directly to conventional electrical power and Wi-Fi, integrating with existing junction box cabling to add audio and video features to any outdoor luminaire, allowing for easy installation and control via a smartphone app.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional light mounting box is used for existing outdoor light fixtures, then the fixture can be installed, but it cannot be upgraded to include wireless video and audio capabilities
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting box is designed as a universal platform that can accommodate multiple types of light fixtures (traditional, LED, smart fixtures) and integrates additional functionalities (video camera, audio speaker, microphone, wireless communication). This multi-functional design allows existing fixtures to be upgraded without replacing the entire system.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting box separates different functional components into distinct modules: lighting module, video module, audio module, and wireless communication module. This segmentation allows individual components to be upgraded or replaced independently while maintaining the overall system structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing light fixtures are replaced with fully integrated audio/video capable luminaires, then advanced features are achieved, but costs become prohibitive and installation becomes burdensome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions (lighting, video, audio, wireless communication) into a single mounting box unit that attaches to existing fixtures. This merging approach consolidates installation steps and reduces the number of separate components that need to be mounted and wired.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting box serves as an intermediary device between existing light fixtures and new audio/video functionalities. It provides standardized interfaces and mounting mechanisms that simplify the integration process, acting as a mediator that bridges old and new technologies.
3Reliability
If different types of light fixtures require specific mounting boxes, then proper mechanical and electrical connections are ensured, but installers must manage multiple hardware types
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting box employs universal mounting mechanisms and standardized electrical connections that work with multiple types of light fixtures. This universality allows installers to use the same mounting box for different fixture types, simplifying inventory management and installation procedures while maintaining reliable connections.
Data Source
AI summary
A universal light mounting box for retrofit is described. The retrofit light mounting box attaches to a junction box and receives electrical power from the junction box cables. The mounting box includes a canopy housing and a camera housing to provide wireless communication of both audio and video capabilities for the area around the junction box while also providing controlled power to a light fixture which is attached to the mounting box. A depending camera housing provides both audio and video signals which can be transmitted from the retrofit canopy housing electronics to a user's device.