Switch Cover Plate With Rechargeable Flashlight Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Flashlights are often difficult to find and may be unusable during emergencies due to battery issues, and existing light switches do not provide an integrated and aesthetically pleasing solution for storing and accessing a flashlight.
Innovation Solution
A storage device with an integrated electrical switch and cover plate that removably attaches to a wall, allowing easy access to a rechargeable flashlight, which can be easily mounted back for continuous charging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a flashlight is stored separately from the light switch, then it is easy to access, but it is difficult to find during emergencies and may not be charged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the flashlight storage function with the existing light switch cover plate, creating an integrated unit. The flashlight is stored within the cover plate structure itself, merging two separate functions (light switching and flashlight storage) into a single device. This eliminates the need for separate storage locations and ensures the flashlight is always accessible at the switch location.
Solution Approach 2:
The light switch cover plate is transformed into a multi-functional device that serves both as an electrical switch cover and as a flashlight storage compartment. The cover plate structure is designed to accommodate the flashlight, allowing it to perform dual functions: protecting the electrical switch and housing the emergency lighting device.
2Reliability
If a flashlight is integrated into the light switch cover plate, then it is always accessible and charged, but it complicates the simple design of the cover plate
Solution Approach 1:
The flashlight is continuously charged by connecting it to the household power supply through the integrated cover plate. This preliminary charging action ensures the flashlight is always ready for use without requiring manual battery replacement or charging. The electrical connection is established in advance, so when emergency lighting is needed, the flashlight is immediately available.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional light switch cover plate is used, then it blends with home décor, but it does not provide flashlight storage functionality
Solution Approach 1:
The cover plate is designed to maintain its decorative appearance while adding flashlight storage functionality. The external appearance remains consistent with traditional cover plates that blend with home décor, while the internal structure provides emergency lighting storage and charging capabilities.
Data Source
AI summary
A storage device for storing a removable flashlight. The storage device includes an electrical switch surrounded by a cover plate. A power source is electrically connected to the electrical switch. A removable flashlight is removably connected to the storage device. The removable flashlight is stored in the storage device and removable from the storage device when needed for use.