Wireless Light Sensor Assembly for Twist-Lock Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing outdoor lighting control systems face challenges in data communication between photocontrol sensor components and receptacle components due to limited space and alignment issues with twist-lock interconnections, as well as environmental sealing complications.
Innovation Solution
A light sensor assembly with a photocontrol receptacle connector and sensor connector that enables wireless communication using contactless communication devices, allowing data or control signals to be transmitted between the components without the need for physical contacts or wires, while maintaining environmental sealing and compatibility with existing twist-lock arrangements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If wired connections are used for data communication between sensor component and receptacle component, then reliable data transfer is achieved, but the twist-lock arrangement and limited contact area make alignment difficult and environmental sealing complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical wired connection system with a wireless communication system. The sensor component and receptacle component communicate data through wireless signals (such as radio frequency communication) instead of physical electrical contacts, thereby eliminating alignment difficulties and sealing complications while maintaining reliable data transfer.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces wireless communication signals as an intermediary medium to transfer data between the sensor component and receptacle component. This intermediary enables data communication without requiring direct physical contact, thus avoiding the limitations of the twist-lock arrangement and contact area constraints.
2Adaptability or versatility
If additional signaling contacts are added to accommodate programmable functions, then more control capabilities are provided, but the area available for contacts is limited due to standard twist-lock interconnection arrangement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical electrical contacts with wireless communication to provide programmable control functions. This substitution allows unlimited control capabilities to be implemented through software and communication protocols without being constrained by the physical contact area available in the standard twist-lock arrangement.
Solution Approach 2:
The wireless communication interface serves multiple functions including data transfer, control signaling, and status monitoring, replacing the need for multiple dedicated electrical contacts. This multi-functionality enables programmable controls to be implemented within the existing physical footprint.
3Extent of automation
If photocontrol components are used to control outdoor lighting based on ambient light, then automatic lighting control is achieved, but data communication between components is hindered by environmental sealing requirements and twist-lock arrangement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical wired data communication with wireless communication to enable photocontrol components to exchange data efficiently. This allows automated lighting control systems to communicate sensor data, control commands, and status information without being hindered by environmental sealing requirements or twist-lock arrangement limitations.
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
Facilitates reliable and efficient data communication between photocontrol sensor components and receptacle components, enhancing the functionality of outdoor lighting systems by enabling programmable controls and remote monitoring without compromising environmental sealing or alignment.
Implementation Method 1
The receptacle connector includes a communication device for contactless communication with the sensor connector. The sensor connector has a photocontrol component electrically connected to the contacts. The sensor connector includes a communication device for contactless communication with the communication device in the receptacle connector.
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 2
AI summary
A light sensor assembly (100) includes a photocontrol receptacle connector (110) configured to be mounted to a housing (102), such as of a light fixture (104). The receptacle connector has a mating interface (118) for mating with a photocontrol sensor connector (112). The receptacle connector holds contacts (116) at the mating interface for electrical connection with corresponding contacts (114) of the photocontrol sensor connector for controlling the light fixture. The contacts are configured to be electrically connected to power wires (130) of the light fixture. The receptacle connector includes a receptacle connector communication device (120) for wireless communication with the photocontrol sensor connector.