Integral Troffer Motion Detector With Flexible Sensor Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sensing systems for recessed lighting are often remotely positioned, not suited for the recessed environment, or require complex installation, making it difficult to integrate sensors directly with the light fixture.
Innovation Solution
An integral sensor system with an adjustable member that allows detection electronics to be spaced from the light fixture, enabling easy mounting on various luminaires and allowing for flexible installation, including a detachable sensor protector and flexible tube for precise positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the sensor system is remotely positioned away from the light fixture, then the sensor can be placed in an accessible location, but the installation complexity increases and integration with the luminaire becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
A flexible conduit acts as an intermediary component connecting the sensor housing to the distal sensor, allowing the sensor to be positioned remotely while maintaining a compact integrated assembly that simplifies installation
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor system is divided into separate functional components (sensor housing, flexible conduit, distal sensor) that can be independently positioned and installed, allowing the main housing to be mounted on the luminaire while the sensor head is placed in an accessible location
2Device complexity
If the sensor system is directly affixed to the light fixture, then the installation is simplified, but the sensor positioning flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible conduit provides dynamic positioning capability, allowing the distal sensor to be adjusted to various angles and positions while maintaining a secure connection to the sensor housing mounted on the luminaire
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows change in the spatial parameters (position, orientation, distance) of the sensor relative to the luminaire through the flexible conduit, enabling adaptation to different installation environments while maintaining integrated mounting
3Manufacturing precision
If the sensor electronics are spaced from the light fixture using a rigid structure, then the sensor positioning is precise, but the adaptability to various luminaire structures is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible conduit replaces rigid structural elements, providing both positioning capability and adaptability to accommodate various luminaire shapes, sizes, and mounting configurations while maintaining precise sensor placement
Data Source
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AI summary
A sensor system (20) electrically connected to and controlling at least one recessed luminaire (30). The sensor system housing (22) is externally connected to the luminaire (30) and includes a flexible member (50) projecting therefrom. The flexible member (50) supports detection electronics spaced from the sensor system housing (22) or the coupled light fixture and sensor system housings (32, 22). The flexible member (50) allows a sensor (52) to be horizontally and vertically positioned relative to the sensor system housing (22).