Modular consumer-configurable electrical fixture system
AssigneePower Transformations LLC
InventorsClyde Martin, Jonathan Johnson
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
Described herein is a modular outlet system that provides flexibility in locating switches, outlets, and sensors. A base can be recessed into a surface, such as a wall, floor, or ceiling and can be connected to a power source. The base can accept multiple types of inserts. The inserts can include switches, outlets, sensors, and blank plates. The inserts can lock into place with the base and unlock based on manipulation of a recessed button. Inserts can engage the base with staged gate opening to minimize chances of electrical shock.
Claims20
A modular electrical fixture system, the system comprising:
- a base that connects to a power supply, the base including an inner cavity that includes a locking mechanism, wherein the base includes electrical terminals shielded by gates;
- an outlet insert that mates with the base;
- and
- a switch insert that mates with the base when the outlet insert is disengaged from the base, wherein the switch insert controls a supply of power to a separate apparatus,
- wherein mating the outlet insert and mating the switch insert to the base each causes the gates to expose the electrical terminals for contact with electrical pins of the respective outlet insert and switch insert.
A method of using a modular electrical outlet system, the method comprising:
- connecting a base to an input conductor and an output conductor, the base having a first locking mechanism for engaging with multiple types of inserts, including a sensor insert and an outlet insert, wherein the base includes gates that shield electrical terminals when none of the multiple types of inserts are engaged with the base;
- installing the outlet insert into the base by pressing the outlet insert into the base until a click or electronic notification occurs, wherein the outlet insert receives current from the input conductor while engaged;
- uninstalling the outlet insert by providing a push force to unlock the spring-loaded latch while applying an opposing pull force to the outlet insert;
- and
- installing the sensor insert into the base by pressing the switch insert into the base until a click occurs, wherein the switch insert connects the input conductor to an output conductor of the base when the sensor insert is engaged,
- wherein installing the outlet insert and installing the sensor insert each cause the gates of the base to expose the electrical terminals for contact with electrodes of the respective outlet and sensor insert.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.