Sound Localization Device for Hidden Electrical Products
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Solution Overview
Problem
In home automation systems, it is difficult for electricians to locate installed products connected to wired or wireless communication networks, such as KNX buses, when they are hidden behind walls or in recessed boxes, especially when multiple products are distributed across a room.
Innovation Solution
A sound localization device is integrated into the product, featuring a transducer element, like a piezoelectric buzzer, that emits an audible signal when an electrical voltage is applied, allowing the product to be located even when not visible, by being connected directly to the network or the electronic card.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the product is installed behind a partition wall or in a recessed box, then the product is hidden and secure, but it becomes difficult for electricians to locate the product during installation and maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies acoustic signaling (analogous to visual indicators) by integrating a sound localization device that emits audible signals to indicate the product's location. The transducer element converts electrical signals to sound waves, allowing electricians to locate hidden products through acoustic cues rather than visual inspection, resolving the contradiction between hiding the product for security/proper positioning and making it locatable for maintenance.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple products are distributed across a room in different places, then the system coverage is improved, but the difficulty of locating each individual product increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sound localization device enables detection of individually distributed products by emitting distinct acoustic signals from each product location. This allows electricians to identify and locate specific products among multiple distributed units through sound, maintaining system coverage while solving the detection difficulty.
3Shape
If the product is not visible after installation, then the aesthetic appearance and proper integration into the building structure is improved, but the ability to find and access the product for intervention is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The acoustic signal emission mechanism provides a non-visual indication method that maintains the product's hidden aesthetic integration while enabling easy location for repair and intervention. The sound localization device allows the product to remain invisible behind walls or surfaces while providing acoustic cues for access.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables the electrician to easily identify and access the product by emitting a sound signal, facilitating installation and maintenance in complex installations.
Implementation Method 1
a transducer element, like a piezoelectric buzzer, that emits an audible signal when an electrical voltage is applied
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a product, with an audible localization device, for an electrical installation including a wired or wireless communication network and at least one piece of equipment connected to said network. The product comprises a housing (1) having walls (1a) delimiting its internal receiving space (1b), which houses at least one electronic card (2) designed to be connected to said network. The audible localization device comprises at least one transducer element (3) capable of emitting an audible sound signal when an electrical voltage is applied to it. This transducer is located and fixed within said space and is connected, for voltage control, to the electronic card (2) or directly to said network. The invention also relates to such an electrical installation further comprising at least one such product.