Socket Assembly Central Member Antenna Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing socket assemblies face challenges in enhancing communication capabilities while maintaining robustness and safety, particularly in flush-mounted installations, where antenna performance is hindered by metal components and installation complexity.
Innovation Solution
A central member with an integrated antenna in a socket assembly, where the communication module, microcontroller, and controllable switch are located in the base, and the antenna is positioned on the central member to minimize interference from metal components, allowing for improved communication and protection during installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the antenna is arranged in the base (at a certain depth in the opening), then the communication module and microcontroller can be protected during installation, but the antenna behaviour is degraded due to interference from metal components and the depth in the wall opening
Solution Approach 1:
The socket assembly is divided into two main parts: the base containing the communication module and microcontroller, and the central member containing the antenna. This segmentation allows the antenna to be positioned in the central member which extends beyond the base, thereby reducing interference from metal components in the base while the communication module remains protected in the base.
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna is positioned in a different spatial dimension relative to the communication module. By placing the antenna in the central member that protrudes from the base, the antenna operates in a region with less metal interference, while the communication module remains in the protected base region.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the antenna is integrated in the central member, then antenna behaviour is improved by reducing interference from metal components, but the complexity of the socket assembly increases
Solution Approach 1:
The central member serves multiple functions: it provides the structural element that holds the antenna, it forms part of the cover assembly, and it extends beyond the base to position the antenna in a region with reduced metal interference. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components.
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna is merged with the central member, combining the antenna function with the existing structural component. This integration avoids adding separate antenna mounting structures and reduces overall assembly complexity despite the functional improvement.
3Adaptability or versatility
If smart functionalities are added to the socket assembly, then communication capabilities are enhanced, but the risk of damage to sensitive components during installation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The socket assembly is segmented into the base (containing sensitive electronics) and the central member (containing the antenna). The cover frame can be removed to allow access to the base for installation while protecting the sensitive components. This segmentation allows smart functionalities to be added while maintaining protection during installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover frame acts as an intermediary protective element that can be removed during installation to provide access to the base, and then reattached to protect the sensitive communication module and microcontroller. This allows installation access without permanently exposing the sensitive components.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A socket assembly for flush-mounted installation in a wall, comprising a base (10, 20) and a central member (64); said base (10) comprising a socket function (50); said central member (64) comprising at least two through-holes for at least two pins of a plug; said central member (64) being removeably attachable to said base (10, 20), with a rear side of the central member (64) facing a front side of the base (10, 20); wherein said base (10, 20) comprises a controllable switch (32) connected to the socket function (50) for controlling the provision of power, a microcontroller (42) configured to control the switch (32), and a communication module (43); wherein the central member (64) is provided with an antenna (66a, 66b), said antenna (66a, 66b) being couplable to said communication module (43) when the central member (64) is attached to the base (10, 20). The central member (64) has a front side which is provided with a recess (161) for receiving a plug (90). Further, the central member (64) is provided with the antenna (66a, 66b) and the antenna (64) is arranged in an area surrounding said recess (161).