Recessing smart quick connect devices.

EMBEDDING SMART DEVICES WITH QUICK CONNECTION

IVIA/t/ZUZZ/UO IOOÓ

Dissemination field

The disclosure relates to electrical connectors and accessories, and more particularly, to an electrical plug and socket combination that allows for quick connection and mounting of electrical accessories for recessed lighting. The disclosure also relates to a recessed lighting system that uses the electrical combination of plug and socket.

Patents and related applications

The present disclosure refers to the international patent application with PCT no.^yesPCT/US20/19010, filed February 20, 2020 (published as WO 2020/172390 A1); the international patent application with PCT n.^yes PCT/US18/27956, filed April 17, 2018 (published as WO 2018/195068 A1); the international patent application with PCT n.^yes PCT/US18/21919, filed March 12, 2018 (published as WO 2018/165646 A1); the international patent application with PCT n.⁵PCT/US 18/20987, filed March 5, 2018 (published as WO 2018/165058 A1); the international patent application with PCT n.^yes PCT/US2016/032170, filed May 12, 2016 (published as WO 2016/183354 A1); US Patent No.^to 7,462,066, filed on March 20, 2007; 7,192,303 filed December 2, 2004; and 6,962,498 filed on December 12, 2001; and US Patent Application Publication No.^yes 2009/0280673, filed on December 2, 2005, the content of which is reproduced herein as if it were inserted to the letter.

Disclosure Background

Traditional techniques for installing electrical appliances and accessories, such as lighting fixtures and wall or ceiling fans, typically require the help of a qualified electrician and the use of various specialized tools and hardware. The installation or uninstallation procedure for these installations can also be relatively time-consuming, even when performed by an experienced installer. In addition to the need to hand-wire the necessary electrical connections between the device and the power wiring, the installer must make separate mechanical connections to hold or suspend the installation in place.

The patents identified above in the Patents and Related Applications section disclose solutions to these and other problems. These patents and related applications disclose various embodiments of plug and receptacle combinations that allow quick connection of an electrical appliance or accessory into an electrical junction box on a wall or ceiling. The outlet mounts to the wall or ceiling near the power wiring and includes female receptacles that receive the male electrical prongs carried by the plug. The electrical accessory is attached to the plug. In addition to the electrical quick connection provided by this plug and receptacle combination, a mechanical connection between the plug and receptacle supports the mechanical loading of the electrical accessory.

The present disclosure sets forth improvements related to various embodiments of plug and socket combinations in related patents and applications for use when recessed lighting is desired. Also disclosed is a recessed lighting system that utilizes plug and outlet combinations.

Recessed lighting is a versatile means of providing ambient and task lighting to almost any area of ​​the home, office, or any desired space. Also known as recessed lights, recessed spotlights or downlights, these lights are mounted on the ceiling or wall (most often on the ceiling) rather than being mounted on the surface of the wall or ceiling.

Recessed lighting includes two main components: the housing and the finish, both chosen (and often sold) separately. The housing is what is above the ceiling and contains all the electrical components, such as the light source and the means to mount the luminaire. The finish refers to what we see under the ceiling, such as the style of the molding or the pieces that direct the light.

In addition to the functional differences in the wide variety of recessed lighting options available on the market, there are also aesthetic differences. If the look of a round, white electrical fixture is not appealing for a given application, there are other options available. There are recessed lamps with trim rings in different colors or metallic finishes. There are also square lamps and lamps of different shapes and sizes if the round style is too simple or conventional.

Brief summary of disclosure

In one embodiment of the disclosure, a device for connecting an electrical accessory to electrical power supply wiring located in or near an electrical junction box positioned such that one face of the electrical junction box is substantially flush with a surface, and for mounting the accessory in the electrical connection box, it comprises a receptacle that includes a receptacle body having at least one internal cavity therein, the outlet configured and sized to fit into the electrical junction box and secure it to the electrical junction box; an electrically conductive contact terminal disposed within the cavity to establish an electrical connection between the power supply wiring and the outlet; a plug secured to the accessory and insertable into the outlet, the plug having at least one male connector electrically connected to the accessory and matable with the contact terminal within the outlet to establish a circuit between the electrical accessory and electrical power wiring; and a releasable pin within the combination of the plug and the receptacle for releasably securing the plug to the receptacle, wherein the plug and receptacle are configured and sized such that the accessory is positioned against the surface and at least partially inside the electrical connection box without being placed inside a housing of

IVIA/t/ZUZZ/UO IOOÓ recessed lighting.

In variations thereof, the fixture is a PCB light source for LEDs; PCB for LED includes a cap; the cover includes a flange sized greater than a maximum width of an open end of the junction box in which the accessory is placed; a lid body is transparent or translucent and the edge is opaque; the cap includes a lens, filter or other optical element to create a lighting effect; the light source and cap have a flat profile; at least one of the light sources and the cover has a rounded profile; the outlet includes a mounting strip attached to the outlet body to secure the outlet to the electrical junction box; The mounting strip is generally U-shaped with two legs; the length of the legs is at least twice the height of the outlet body; the length of the legs is approximately the same as the height of the outlet body; The electrical junction box includes a first series of vertically spaced holes and a second series of vertically spaced holes, with the first and second series of vertically spaced holes on opposite surfaces of the electrical junction box; or the length of the legs is adjustable.

In another embodiment of the disclosure, a plug for mating with a receptacle to form a device for connecting an electrical accessory with electrical power supply wiring located in or near an electrical junction box positioned such that one face of the junction box electrical connection is substantially flush with a surface, and to mount the fixture in the electrical connection box, comprises at least one male connector electrically connected to the accessory and connected to a contact terminal within the outlet to establish a circuit between the electrical accessory and the electrical power wiring; and a releasable pin located in the combination of the plug and the receptacle for releasably mounting the luminaire to the bracket, wherein the plug and receptacle are configured and sized so that the fixture is placed against the surface without a housing recessed lighting.

In a further embodiment of the disclosure, a device positionable within an electrical junction box having an open face, the junction box recessed beneath a work surface, the open face open to the work surface, comprising a housing that it has an outer periphery sized to be insertable at least partially inside the electrical connection box; a plug: (a) having a body, (b) the body fixed to a distal end of the insertable outer periphery of the housing, (c) having a plurality of ring-shaped concentric electrical connectors positioned on the body to define a face of insertion of the pin, (d) a centrally arranged elongated cylinder defining a longitudinal axis and having at least one transverse channel, (e) a bolt slidable within the cylinder, the bolt having at least one radial groove, (f) at least one ball disposed within the transverse channel and accessible by the bolt, the bolt sliding to alternately position the ball adjacent to a radial groove and not adjacent to a radial groove; a lever: (i) slideable within the pin along an axis transverse to the longitudinal axis of the cylinder, (i) positioned at one end of the bolt, (iii) having a cam surface accessible with the end

IVIA/t/ZUZZ/UO IOOÓ of the bolt to alternately push the bolt and position a radial groove adjacent to a ball and to a position in which the radial groove is not adjacent to a ball to thereby push the ball through the transverse channel; (iv) extending out of the pin body to a distance away from the body, and rotating to extend further away from the pin in a direction away from the insertion face of the pin, (v) the push-to-drive lever the cam surface against the end of the bolt, (vi) the lever that extends beyond the surface of the part so that it can be pushed when the housing is inserted into the connection box.

In a variation thereof, the system further includes an electrical outlet that includes an outlet body having an internal cavity containing one or more concentric ring-shaped openings positioned over an insertion face of the plug, the openings engaging with the plug ring-shaped electrical contactors, each opening associated with an electrical contact connectable with a ring-shaped electrical contactor, the socket body defining an insertion face of the plug; and a bracket including an elongated base to which the outlet is attached, and two extension arms extending from opposite ends of the base and away from the insertion face of the plug, the extension arms connecting to the box connection to place the outlet in a position below the opening of the connection box to mate with the plug of the device.

In other variations thereof, the device further includes a flange connected to the housing and sized to have a width greater than the width of the open face of the junction box; the device further includes at least one electronic circuit board; or the housing further includes at least one light emitting device.

In another embodiment of the disclosure, an outlet for a recessed lighting housing for mechanically and electrically coupling an electrical accessory attached to a plug, comprises an extender having an Edison type base at a first end and an outlet body at a second. end, the Edison rose type base connectable to the thread of the housing to mechanically and electrically couple the outlet to the housing; a receptacle body at a second end of the extender, the receptacle body having at least one internal cavity therein and an electrically conductive contact terminal disposed within the cavity to establish an electrical connection between the housing and the receptacle; and a releasable pin carried on the plug and receptacle combination to releasably secure the plug to the receptacle.

In variations thereof, the extender has a fixed length, or the extender has an adjustable length.

Brief description of the drawings

A more complete understanding of the disclosure, and of the advantages and features thereof, will be more easily understood by reference to the following detailed description when considered together with the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 depicts a conventional outlet that may be used or modified for use as part of the quick connect device in accordance with the disclosure;

Figure 2 depicts a conventional plug that includes features common to the plug of the quick connect device in accordance with the disclosure;

Figure 3 represents an embodiment of a pin spindle that includes balls offset at 90 degrees and that can be incorporated into the pin of the quick connect device in accordance with the disclosure;

Figure 4 is a perspective view of an outlet of Figure 1 attached to a bracket of the disclosure, the assembly insertable within an electrical junction box;

Figure 5 is a perspective cross section through the center of the assembly of Figure 4 installed within an electrical junction box;

Figure 6 is a perspective cross section of a plug having features of the plug of Figure 2, and modified to include a release lever that moves a bolt to allow release of the plug from a receptacle having features of the receptacle of Figure 2. Figure 1, the bolt in a position to lock the plug to the outlet;

Figure 7 shows the plug of Figure 6, moved by the lever to a position that allows the plug to be released from the outlet;

Figure 8 shows the pin of Figure 6, modified in accordance with the disclosure to include an extension arm attached to the release lever and extending out of the pin;

Figure 9 diagrammatically represents the plug of Figure 8 within an installation of the disclosure, a body of the accessory insertable in a connection box shown to which a socket of Figure 4 has been fixed in accordance with the disclosure;

Figure 10 is a cross section through the center of an assembly as shown in Figure 9;

Figure 11 is an exploded perspective view of the assembly of Figure 9;

Figures 12 to 14 are perspective views of the assembly of Figure 9, mounted with a roof, where only the replaceable caps of the accessory according to the disclosure are visible, as well as one end of the release lever that can be pushed to release the accessory, Figures 12 to 14 represent the shallow convex, increased height convex and angular cap styles, respectively;

Figure 15 represents a cross section of an assembly of the disclosure similar to that of Figure 9, further depicting the LED lights, and illustrating the replaceable caps of the disclosure, and particularly the shallow cap of Figure 12;

Figure 16 represents a cross section of a disclosure assembly similar to that of Figure 9, further depicting a central release lever in addition to the release lever

IVIA/t/ZUZZ/UO IOOÓ extended from Figure 9, and representing the convex lid of increased height from Figure 13;

Figure 17 shows the device of Figure 16, and represents the angled cap of Figure 14;

Figure 18 depicts a system of a plurality of accessories of the disclosure, including a main facility that controls electrically connected auxiliary facilities;

Figure 19 depicts an alternative outlet mounting bracket that includes portions removed to maximize space with a junction box;

Figure 20 represents a diagrammatic view of an alternative outlet mounting bracket of the disclosure with two-part adjustable extension arms;

Figure 21 shows a diagrammatic view of a mounting bracket of the disclosure mounted within an extension ring of the junction box;

Figure 22 represents a diagrammatic view of a device similar to that of Figure 10, further including the sensors of the disclosure;

Figure 23 shows an alternative bracket and junction box of the disclosure, the bracket can be selectively connected to the openings formed in the junction box; and

Figure 24 shows an outlet with an extended lever of the disclosure, secured to an Edison style plug, the releasable assembly of a recessed junction box as disclosed for other embodiments herein.

Detailed disclosure description

This written description uses examples to reveal the embodiments, including the best way, and also to enable those skilled in the art to make and use the invention. The patentable scope is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. These other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal languages ​​of the claims.

Please note that not all activities described in the overview or examples are necessary, that part of a specific activity may not be necessary, and that one or more activities may be performed in addition to those described. Furthermore, the order in which activities are listed is not necessarily the order in which they are performed.

In the description above, the concepts have been described with reference to specific modalities. However, a person skilled in the art appreciates that various modifications and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the invention, as set forth in the following claims. Therefore, the specification and figures should be considered in an illustrative and not a restrictive sense, and all such modifications should be included within the scope of the invention.

It may be advantageous to establish definitions of certain words and phrases used throughout this patent document. The term “communicate”, as well as its derivatives, covers both direct and indirect communication. The terms “include” and “understand”, as well as their derivatives, mean inclusion without limitation. The term “or” is inclusive, and means and/or. The phrase “associated with,” as well as its derivatives, can mean include, be included in, interconnect with, contain, be contained in, connect to or connect with, couple to or couple with, be communicable with, cooperate with, intersperse, juxtapose, be close to, be united to or with, have, have a property of, have a relationship with, or the like. The phrase “at least one of,” when used with a list of items, means that different combinations of one or more of the list items may be used, and that only one list item may be needed. For example, “at least one of: A, B and C” includes any of the following combinations: A, B or C; A and B; A and C; B and C; and A, B and C.

Likewise, the terms “a” or “an/an” are used to describe the elements and components described herein. This is done simply for convenience and to give a general sense of the scope of the invention. This description should be read as including one or at least one and the singular also includes the plural unless it is obvious that something else is meant.

The description of the present application should not be construed to mean that any particular element, step or function is an essential or critical element that must be included within the scope of the claim. The scope of patented subject matter is defined solely by the permitted claims. Furthermore, none of the claims apply Article 35 USC § 112(f) with respect to any of the accompanying claims or claim elements, unless the exact words “means for” or “step for” are explicitly used in the particular claim, followed by a participle phrase that identifies a function.

The benefits, other advantages and solutions to problems have been described above with respect to the specific modalities. However, benefits, advantages, solutions to problems and any feature that may cause or enhance any benefit, advantage or solution should not be construed as a critical, required, sacrosanct or essential feature of any or all The claims.

After reading the description, skilled artisans will appreciate that certain features that, for clarity, are described herein in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features that, for brevity, are described in the context of a single modality, may also be provided separately or in any subcombination. Additionally, references to values ​​indicated in ranges include any and all values ​​within that range.

As used herein, the term “about” or “approximately” applies to all numerical values, whether explicitly stated or not. These terms generally refer to a range of numbers that a person skilled in the art would consider equivalent to the values ​​mentioned (i.e., having the same function or result). In many cases, these terms may include numbers rounded to the nearest significant figure. As used herein, the terms “substantially” and “substantially” mean, when comparing multiple parts with each other, that the parts being compared are the same or are close enough in dimension that a technician in the matter I consider them equal. The terms substantially and substantially, as used herein, are not limited to a single dimension and specifically include a range of values ​​for the parts being compared. The range of values, both above and below (for example, or larger/smaller or smaller), includes a variation that a person skilled in the art would know to be a reasonable tolerance for the parts mentioned.

The disclosure set forth herein is intended to be illustrative of the principles and various embodiments of the present invention. Numerous variations and modifications will become apparent to those skilled in the art once the foregoing disclosure is fully appreciated. The following claims are intended to be construed to encompass all such variations and modifications.

Headings are provided for the convenience of the reader and are not intended to be limiting in any way.

The present disclosure relates to the inventor's prior works, such as those set forth above in the documents identified in the Patents and Related Applications section, the contents of which are reproduced herein as if inserted verbatim. In this sense, the plug or socket may include a detection unit for at least one of the wireless communications of a detected condition and the wireless reception of a signal, as disclosed in PCT international patent application no.^yes PCT/US2016/032170, filed on May 12, 2016, and in PCT international patent application no.^yes PCT/US2018/020987, filed March 5, 2018.

A “quick connect device” for installing electrical appliances comprises a combination of a plug and a receptacle, also known as a receptacle. The device's plug and receptacle serve to establish an electrical connection between an electrical accessory and the electrical supply wiring, and to mechanically hold the accessory to a surface or base, typically a wall, ceiling, or floor. As used herein, the term “accessory|” or “electrical accessory” means any accessory or appliance, such as a lighting device, ceiling fan, television camera, security device or any other device that is powered by electricity supplied by electrical wiring, and that requires a mechanical connection to support or suspend the apparatus. The plug is affixed to an electrical fixture, while the outlet is affixed to the surface (for example, wall, ceiling, or floor) on which the fixture is to be mounted, or to an electrical junction box. The structure, function and operation of the plug and socket, in general, have already been detailed in, for example, the patents and application incorporated by reference herein.

Referring, for example, to the incorporated reference published as WO 2016/183354

IVIA/t/ZUZZ/UO IOOÓ

A1 and WO 2018/165058 A1 (collectively referred to as “the smart quick connect publications”), a quick connect device (22) for the installation of electrical accessories comprises the combination of a plug (30) and a mating outlet ( twenty). A detailed description of the structure and function of a receptacle (20), a plug (30), and a spindle assembly (24) is provided in the smart quick connect publications and other incorporated references. As in smart quick-connect publications, one or more sensors or other electronic or electrical receiving/input or transmitting/output devices (48), (50) (hereinafter “sensors”) may be associated with the plug ( 30) or the outlet (20). The outlet (20) is known, as indicated in the incorporated references, and as codified in the United States National Electrical Code.

As detailed in the smart quick connect publications, and as detailed later herein, the devices of the disclosure may be provided with or attached to electronic sensors or processors, transmitters or receivers, and other electronic circuits, and which may considered “smart” devices, or the device of the disclosure may be associated with devices that consume energy, such as lights or fans, which may or may not include “smart” electronic components, or other electronic components that are not related to the operation of the device itself.

Plug and socket

An example of a conventional outlet (20) is shown in Figure 1. The conventional outlet (20) can be used as the outlet that is part of the quick connect device in accordance with the disclosure. Figure 2 shows a conventional plug (30) having characteristics common to the plug that forms part of the quick connection device in accordance with the disclosure. An alternative spindle assembly (24A) is shown in Figure 3. The socket (20), the plug (30) and the alternative spindle assembly (24A) are now disclosed to help describe part of the structure, function and operation of the quick connect device in accordance with the disclosure.

In particular, the outlet (20) of a conventional quick-connect device (22) for installing electrical accessories receives a plug (30), thus forming an electrical connection between the outlet (20) and the plug (30). In Figure 1, the outlet (20) may be attached to a bracket (36) or other structure configured for mounting in a standard electrical box or other structural member of a building. As can be seen in Figures 2 to 5 and 7, a spindle assembly (24) is used to mechanically securely connect the plug (30) to the outlet (20). The male connector rings (32) are provided within a cavity (138) of the plug (30), and may be supported by being molded integrally within the body (26) of the plug (30), if the body (26) is molded from a non-conductive material. The rings (32) have sufficient radial space between them to electrically isolate them from each other. The diameters and spacing of the male connector rings are such that they can be aligned and received within the corresponding female recesses (34) in the receptacle (20), to have electrical contact with the mating conductors of the receptacle (38) within from the outlet (20). As detailed in the publications

IVIA/t/ZUZZ/UO IOOÓ of patents incorporated by reference, this alignment is used to electrically connect the plug (30) to the outlet (20), thereby establishing an electrical connection between an electrical accessory and the electrical supply wiring, and mechanically supporting the fixture on a surface or base, typically a wall, ceiling or floor surface.

The number of rings can correspond to the number of electrical connections needed. For example, an electrical connection may include a source conductor or a “hot” conductor protected by a circuit breaker, a return conductor or a “neutral” conductor, and a safety conductor or a “ground” connector. Additional conductors can be added for a 3-way switch leg or travel conductor, a second “hot” conductor for a two-phase connection, and any number of signal conductors for analog or digital data.

Figure 3 shows an alternative screw (24A), in which one or more balls (72) are oriented radially at 90 degrees with respect to other balls (72) spaced axially at a distance along the screw (24A). Common to the two embodiments of Figures 2 and 3, a spring (76) (shown in Figure 3) pushes a locking bolt (74), which slides inside a cylinder (70/70A) to position them hollow (78 ) of the locking bolt (74) away from the balls (72) to keep the balls (72) trapped inside the openings (114) inside the cylinder (70), thus preventing the exit of the cylinder (70) from the cylinder (68) from the socket (20) due to interference between the balls (72) and a coupling groove or lip (66) (Figure 7) inside the cylinder (68) fixed to the outlet (20). When the locking bolt (74) is pushed axially against the force of the spring (76), the locking bolt (74) moves to align the slots (78) with the balls (72), thus allowing the balls (72) to ) move out of interference with the cylinder (68), allowing the removal of the cylinder (70) from the cylinder (68), and therefore the exit of the plug (30) from the outlet (20).

It should be understood that the choice to use a socket (20) for a base reflects that the electrical conductors carrying potentially dangerous high voltage electrical signals must be embedded and not touched by people. However, when exclusively using low voltage/low power signals, the pin and base locations may be reversed or chosen arbitrarily.

Recessed plug and socket

Referring to Figures 4 to 5, the outlet (20) comprises a substantially cylindrical shaped body (112) formed by a non-conductive material such as phenolic resin. On one of the faces of the socket (20), concentric ring-shaped slots or grooves (34) are formed that are configured to receive the male connector rings (32) of the plug (30) to establish an electrical connection between the plug ( 30) and the power outlet (20). The socket (20) includes a socket (116) fixed to the socket (20) that defines a through hole through which the spindle (24) can pass. In the illustrated embodiment, the bushing (116) passes through and is attached to an elongated mounting bracket (36A) by welding, riveting, threaded closure or other accessory. The bushing (116) and the support (36A) could alternatively be made of

ΜΛ/ΙΖ/ΖυΖΖ/υΟΊΰΟύ unitary construction, formed from a single piece of high-strength material, such as metal, such as by casting, machining or other metal working processes.

The bracket (36A) is generally U-shaped with an extension arm (120) having a length selected so that an electrical device incorporating the device (20) has the appearance and effect of a recessed electrical fixture, such as recessed lighting. , for example, when installed in an electrical connection box (108). Although it depends on the length of the portion of the electrical device that is to be recessed or hidden, the arm (120) may have a length of at least twice the height of the outlet body (112), for example. The bracket (36A) is provided with an outwardly extending mounting flange (124), positioned at each end of the arm (120) that extends away from the other, each flange (124) including an opening (122) through of which the support (36A) can be fixed, for example by means of screws (110), to the connection box (108). In this way, the device (20) can be fixed to the connection box (108). Therefore, the length (120) and U-shaped configuration of the bracket (36A) allows the device (20) to be recessed within the junction box, as depicted in Figure 5. Selecting a particular length ( 120), a height can be predetermined within a particular style junction box.

As detailed below in the incorporated references, the extension arms (120) may have an adjustable length. In one embodiment, the arm (120) is provided in two mutually engaging lengths that may overlap to a greater or lesser extent. The two coupling lengths can be fixed to each other, for example, with threaded closures. More specifically, one of the engageable lengths may have a plurality of spaced holes, and the other engageable length may include at least one hole through which a fastener may extend to pass through a selected one of the spaced holes to thereby determine a length of the stem (120) that includes the two coupling lengths.

The outlet body (112) may be provided with a circumferential notch (126) that defines an annular face (128) that is intended to engage a corresponding face on the plug (30) and acts as a stop to limit the entry of the plug (30) into the outlet (20). The plug (30) and the socket (20) are each provided with a plurality of teeth (130) on a periphery of the socket (20) and a mating periphery of the plug (30). The teeth (130) may alternatively be provided on the face (128) and on a mating face of the pin (30). The teeth (130) of the plug (30) and the receptacle (20) intersect or mesh when the plug (30) and the receptacle (20) engage to prevent rotation between them. Before the teeth (130) of the plug (104) and the socket (106) engage, the plug (104) and the socket (106) are free to rotate relative to each other, so that it can be selected a desired radial alignment between the outlet (20) and an electrical device associated with the plug (30).

The plug body (112) includes connection tabs (132), and each tab (132) has an electrical contact / connector (134) for receiving and securing a power supply cable, for example by means of a screw terminal, a connection quick release or other suitable electrical connection. The exact size of the connector (134) is determined based on the maximum gauge of electrical wiring required for the intended application. A bare end of the power supply cable is connected to the outlet (20) by inserting the end of the cable into one of the connectors (134). Each of the tabs (132) is electrically connected to a corresponding conductor (38), as described in detail in the patent documents incorporated by reference. Although the tabs (132) are shown on the side of the body (112), in some applications, it may be more convenient or possible to introduce the power supply cables on the rear face of the outlet body (112), which corresponds to a surface top or top when the junction box is mounted on a ceiling. In this case, the electrical power cables can be placed through the access openings located in the upper part of the outlet body (112), where they also establish the electrical connection with the conductors of the outlet (38).

In Figure 5, an accessory (102) is attached to the pin (30), shown in Figure 5 as a white cap. When the accessory (102) is a white cover, it provides the advantage of covering the outlet (20), and provides a finished appearance when an electrical accessory (102) may not be necessary or has not been selected yet. When the accessory (102) is a white cap, the connector rings (32) may be absent, or may be of a non-conductive material to reduce cost. To allow release of the accessory (102), a pressure button (150) is movably retained within the accessory (102) and contacts or is connected to the locking bolt (74), whereby the locking bolt (74) can be pushed to release the spindle (24) as described. The push button (150) can be pressed with a finger or a tool to release the white cap (102). When the accessory (102) is a lighting or other electrical accessory, it can be released in a similar manner if the button (150) is accessible. When the power accessory (102) covers the area of ​​the push button (150), a rod or other structure can be connected to the locking bolt (74) and extend through the accessory to where it can be pressed to release the accessory.

The accessory (102) can be attached to the cover (30) in several ways. For example, the fixture (102) may be attached to a lower section of the cylinder (70). As shown, the fitting (102) includes a cap (152), which is attached to the cylinder (70), and the fitting (102) is attached to the cap (152). The weight of the accessory (102) is transmitted through the cylinder (144), the check balls (72) and the socket cylinder (68) to the mounting strip (36A), which in turn is attached to the electrical connection box (108).

The fixture (102) may include a cap (152) that may be provided with a lip (154) to create the appearance of a molding found on a traditional recessed luminaire. The cover (152) can be made of transparent plastic or glass to allow the transmission of light from the luminaire (102). The cap (152) may include a lens, a filter or other optical element to create the desired lighting effect.

Side Release Plug and Outlet

Referring now, in particular, to Figures 6 to 7, a pin (30A) includes a body (26) that slidably receives a release lever (148) in a channel (104). In the embodiment shown, the body (26) includes circumferential teeth (123) that engage complementary teeth (130) on the receptacle (20), to allow adjustment and engagement of a specific radial alignment of the receptacle (20) and the plug (100) when the plug (100) is inserted into the outlet (20).

In Figure 6, the lever (148) is in a first position, in which the cam follower (110), driven by a resilient member, has moved along the cam surface (158) to increase the area of contact between the cam follower (110) and the cam surface (158). In this position, the locking bolt (74) is in a lower position, as shown in Figure 2, in which the locking bolt (74) is no longer positioned in the recesses (78) adjacent to the balls. (72), blocking the balls (72) in the cylinder (68). In this embodiment, the spring (76) pushes the locking bolt (74) to the first position, which is positioned between the follower (110) and a shoulder (118) inside the shaft (24). The spring (76) can be alternatively positioned as shown in Figure 5. A separate resilient member, in this embodiment, the return spring (106), pushes the lever (148) towards the first position.

Referring now to Figure 7, the lever (148) was pushed into the channel (104), against the thrust force of the return spring (106), in the example of Figure 7 on the right, towards a second position that represents an unlock position. When the lever (148) is moved to the second position, the cam follower (110) slides against the cam surface (158) which pushes the cam follower (110) upward, as seen in Figure 7, in a direction away from the lever (148), compressing the spring of the pin (76). Consequently, the locking bolt (74) moves upward, aligning the gaps (78) with the balls (72), which allows the balls (72) to move out of the cylinder (68), thereby plug (30) can be mechanically disengaged from the outlet (20). In Figure 7, the follower (110) moved completely off the cam surface (158). However, the follower (110) and recesses (78) can be positioned such that the follower (110) can remain partially engaged with the surface (158) to align the balls (72) and recesses (78) to unlock. and release the plug (100) and the outlet (20).

The cam follower (110) may be formed as a separate piece attached to the locking bolt (74), as shown in the figures, or may be formed integrally at one end of the locking bolt (74). The cam follower (110) can be made of any sufficiently durable and rigid material, such as metal, plastic, a synthetic or composite material, or a natural material, such as wood. When attached as a separate piece, the follower may be attached by an interference fit, or with the use of adhesive, threading, brazing, soldering, or any other method that ensures a durable attachment. As can be seen in the figures, the lever (148) limits a range of movement of the follower (110), and therefore limits a position of the locking bolt (74) between the first (locked) or the second (unlocked/released). ).

The lever (148) is slidably confined within the channel (104) and is prevented from being pushed out of the channel (104), due to the force of the spring (106) or gravity, by a retaining post (144) that passes to through a retaining groove (146) formed within the lever (148). A free end of the lever (148) may be provided with an unlock button (150), as provided in the embodiment of Figure 5.

IVIA/t/ZUZZ/UO IOOÓ

In the embodiment shown, the cam surface (158) and the follower (110) have a conical profile, however the cam surface (158) and the follower (110) do not need to be circumferential, but could be flat, in the form of v, or otherwise, and may be positioned only along one direction of release movement of the lever (102) as described herein. Herein, the release lever (148), the channel (104), the cam surface (158), the cam follower (110), and the related structure, comprise a lever release assembly.

Side Release Recessed Plug and Outlet

Returning to Figures 8 to 9, it can be seen that the lever (148A) is similar to the lever (148) of Figures 6 to 7, but includes a lever extension (162) that positions a distal end (164) of the lever ( 148A) at a distance from the pin body (26). In this way, the plug (30A) can be recessed inside an electrical connection box (108), while allowing the operation of the lever (148A) to release the plug (30A) from the outlet (30).

More particularly, with reference to Figure 9, right wing, the plug (30A) is diagrammatically represented as mounted within the electrical accessory (300). A button (150) is visible on a peripheral rim (164). Later in Figure 9, on the left the modality of the outlet (30) of Figures 4 to 5 is shown. The electrical accessory (300) has a body housing (302) that is sized to fit inside the junction box (108), wherein the flange (320) remains outside of and on the junction box (108). In this way, the plug (30A) can be attached to the outlet (30), while the button (150) remains pressable to push the lever (148A) to release the accessory (300).

Although the accessory (300) is represented as a luminaire, it should be evident that any type of appliance that can be at least partially recessed within the connection box (108) can incorporate or be formed to extend from the plug (30A) .

Side-release smart plug and outlet

It is apparent from the diagrammatic view of the pin (30A) in Figure 9 that the body (202) provides more internal space than required to house the pin (30A). With reference to Figure 10, an embodiment of the accessory (300) is presented in cross section, in which a part of the additional internal space is used to house the electronics.

In Figures 10 to 11, the connection box (108) is mounted inside the ceiling (200). When, for example, the fixture (300) is a recessed luminaire, the fixture is typically mounted to be flush or nearly flush with the ceiling and covers the front of the junction box (108) so that no part of the connection box (108) is visible. As detailed herein, the outlet (20) may be mounted at a distance from the opening of the connection box (108), to provide space for housing the luminaire (302). This makes connection with the electrical cables even easier and positions the electrical cables away from and without interference with the luminaire housing (302). The surrounding area (324) indicates a location of the cam follower (110) and the cam surface (158), positioned at a distance from the cover (312).

The electrical accessory (300) is represented to include a light source, in this embodiment LED lights (322). Although the illumination source (322) is shown as an LED on an electronic circuit board (308), the disclosure contemplates the use of any suitable light emitting device. The electronic circuit boards represented here are printed circuit boards (PCB), however any type of electronic board can be used within the disclosure. When there are multiple circuit boards, they are connected by suitable electrical connectors (not shown). Likewise, the power of the connection box is connected between the plug (30A) and the boards (308) as necessary, through cables connected between the electrical connector (134) and the electronic board (308), or an integrated conductive path among them that can be embedded in the form of rings (32), for example. A lens (314) protects the LED (322), and may provide a light filtering function, a light focusing function, or other light adaptation function, which may create a desired lighting effect. If necessary, a lens holder (316) can secure the lens (314) to a cap (312) or housing (302). The plates (308) can be fixed to the housing (302) or to the cover (312) which is fixed to the plug (30/30A) or they can be fixed directly to the plug (22/30A), for example, to the plug body ( 26) or to the spindle assembly (24/24A).

In Figure 10, three circuit boards (308) are shown, although any number of circuit boards (308) may be provided. A bottom plate, as seen, supports and powers the LEDs (322). Any of the boards may include any of a variety of electronic devices as disclosed in the incorporated references. Examples include devices or electronics supporting devices that may include any or all lights; transmitters or receivers for any of the radio frequencies, Wif i, Bluetooth, near field exchange, induction charging, cellular, low power wide area network (LPWAN), LTE, LTE-M, narrow band loT (NB-loT (Internet of Things), LoRa, Zigbee, Z-Wave, or other signal transmission known or hereinafter developed; sensors for temperature, humidity, smoke, motion, heat signals, ultrasound, sound, speaker, microphone, propane, carbon monoxide (CO) or other gas; security device such as security camera (with or without motion detection), glass breakage, wired or wireless intrusion detection loops (with or without self-monitoring), pressure sensor or extensometer. It should be understood that this is necessarily a limited list, as other types of electronic devices may be incorporated into the devices of the disclosure. In Figure 10, a signal transmitter/receiver (310) is shown near the cover (312), as an illustrative example. A battery (324) (Figure 11) may be provided to maintain power if the power supply is lost. A charging system (not shown) for the battery (324) may be provided for a circuit board (308) where the battery (324) is intended to be rechargeable. For convenience, all of the above devices are designated as “sensors” herein and are generally designated by reference (48) or (50). Sensors designated by reference (48) generally refer to transmitters if they transmit a signal or other emission, and sensors designated by reference (50) generally refer to receivers if they receive a signal or other

IVIA/t/ZUZZ/UO IOOÓ broadcast.

Figures 12 to 14 show three caps (312) of different shapes for the accessory (300), including a shallow convex, a higher convex and an angular, respectively. Since only a portion of the lid is visible, the decoration of the accessory (300) can be easily modified to obtain the desired appearance. Furthermore, it is evident that the unlock button (150) may have a shape corresponding to the shape. Furthermore, it can be seen that additional internal space can be created when the lid (312) has a greater height. The cover (312) may have a width sufficient to cover the junction box (108) or may have a greater width to accommodate a decorative style, or to create additional space. As can be seen in Figure, the flange (320) and the cap (312) have the same width, and fit together to form a unitary flange/cap that is three-dimensional, and mutually supports the lever extension (162) and the button. (150).

The cap (312) thus provides a cutout portion that is intended to extend below the surface of the ceiling into which the device is embedded. Consequently, the entire structure described herein can be located above the roof surface, as achieved with the correct length of the arms (120) and the corresponding height of the housing (302), except for the flange (320 ), if provided, it is intended to rest on the roof surface. Finally, when choosing a decoration for the venue, a cover (312) can be selected that best coordinates with the decoration. The cover (312) can also be treated with paint, fabrics or printed material to better coordinate with the decoration, without the need to remove the built-in components. A button (150) can be selected that matches the chosen cap (312) and can be attached to the end of the lever extension (162) by any known means, such as an adhesive, an interference fit, a thread, a clip or other type of closure.

Figure 15 shows the configuration of the cover (312) of Figure 12 together with a cross-sectional representation of an installation (330) that is similar to the accessory (300) of Figures 10 to 11, differing in that the boards ( 308) are not present, since the LEDs (322) can operate with the incoming line voltage. It can be seen that there is additional space inside the junction box (108), or a smaller junction box can be used. Figure 16 represents an installation (340) that is similar to the accessory (330), however, it represents the configuration of the lid of Figure 13. Additionally, a central release button is provided, in addition to the unlock button provided by the lever extension (162). However, it may be necessary to remove the lens (314) to access the unlock button, unless the accessory (340) does not include a lens cap or has a different configuration. Figure 17 shows a portion of the accessory (340), but that includes the cover configuration of Figure 14.

Figure 18 represents one embodiment of a recessed lighting system (400) that uses a plurality of modalities as shown and described in Figures 10 to 11, and which are electrically coordinated. Each installation (300) is supported in a connection box by the bracket (36A), however, the connection boxes (108) are not shown for clarity. The recessed lighting system (400) includes a

MA/ t/ZUZZ/UO ΊΟΟΟ first recessed lighting installation (300A), a second recessed lighting installation (300B), and a third recessed lighting installation (300C). Although three recessed lighting fixtures are shown, system 400 may include any suitable number of fixtures. The first installation (300A) may be a smart luminaire with one or more sensors (48/50) as described in Figures 10 to 11. In the example shown, three lighting installations are coordinated, so the sensors (48/50) in the device (300A) may include a receiver for a remote control or other control device, and the associated electronics to control the ignition. and turning off or dimming all three fixtures, or to change the color of one or more of the fixtures. Thus, only the accessory (300A) requires circuit boards (308) or sensors (48/50). However, installations (300B) and (300C) may also include these components, for the same or different purposes compared to accessory (300A).

As shown in Figure 18, the fixture (300A) is connected to wire “L1” which is connected to line 1 or a hot connector of an electrical supply, such as building wiring. Wire “G” is connected to the ground with respect to L1, and wire “W” is connected to a neutral associated with L1. The installations (300B) and (300C) are not connected to L1, but are connected to "L2", which is controlled by the accessory (300A). The accessory emits a signal on L2 that corresponds to a desired lighting effect for the facilities (300A) and (300B), which may be the same or different from that of the accessory (300A). The signal on L2 is modified by the electronics mounted on the plates (308) of the accessory (300A). It should be understood that L2 may include a plurality of conductors to communicate different signals from the accessory (300A) to the figures (300B) and (300C).

In one embodiment, L2 represents an Ethernet or fiber optic connection, and may carry IP-based traffic or other network traffic, such as serial data. In one embodiment, L2 represents Power over Ethernet (PoE). In another embodiment, L2 represents separate power and data lines.

Referring now to Figure 19, a base (324) of the bracket (36B) is secured to the socket (20) by any suitable means, such as a threaded fastener, a rivet, a molding, a pin, a clip or a welding, as examples. The extension arms (120A) extend from the base (324) away from the face of the outlet (128). The base (324) has a width selected to position the extension arms (120A) adjacent to an interior surface of opposite sides (326) of the connection box (108). Additionally, the extension arms include a channel (328) sized to accept the passage of the screw tabs of the housing (318) of the connection box (108). In this way, the support (36B) is inserted inside the connection box (108) to the smallest possible extent, and in particular, as minimal as the thickness of the extension arm (120A).

In one embodiment, as shown, the base (324) and extension arms (120A) are formed from a single plate that is stamped or cut to remove material and create the channels (328). At the distal ends of the channels (328), indentations are formed through which the tabs (124A) can be formed by simply bending the distal ends of the extension arms (120A), as shown in the

IVIA/t/ZUZZ/UO IOOÓ

Figure 19. Additional bends arrange the extension arms perpendicular to the base (324) to form support tabs (338), through which tab openings (332) are formed, so that the mounting screws can pass. through the tab openings (332) and into the case screw tabs (318). The extension arms (120A) can be formed with a length that positions the base (324) against a lower surface of the connection box (108), where maximum space is desired. Alternatively, a length of extension arms (120A) can position the outlet (20) at a predetermined distance from an opening in the connection box (108). As described with respect to the extension arms (120) (Figures 4 to 5), and as shown in Figure 17, the extension arms (120A) may be formed in two sections that are secured together to form different lengths. , so that the extension arms (120A) can be field adjustable.

In Figure 20, the embodiment of Figure 19 is illustrated in diagrammatic form, with two-part extension arms (120A), where the extension arm extender (334) is attached to a shortened extension arm (120B) . The arm extender (334) and the shortened extension arm (120B) may be joined together by any known means, including a threaded fastener, clip, clamp, or other connection. Either of the extenders (334) or the arm (120B), or both, may include multiple openings for a fastener, allowing a plurality of combined lengths, for example, corresponding to the sizes of the connection box (108) of frequent use. Figure 21 illustrates the deployment of the embodiment of Figure 19 or 20 within an extension ring type electrical box, which is similar to a junction box that has an open bottom. In this way, there is additional space for cables and connectors, however, the outlet (20) is at a correct height for the installation of an accessory that includes the plug (30).

In Figure 23, the connection box (148) is provided with a plurality of vertically aligned openings (336), arranged on opposite interior sides of the connection box (108B), which may be threaded. The extension arms (120C) of the bracket (36C) form a space through which a screw can pass and be threaded into one of the selected openings (148). In this way, precise vertical alignment of the outlet (20) can be carried out. As the bracket (36C) is secured through the openings (336), the tabs (338) may be absent, as shown, or may optionally be provided for additional or alternative attachment. As an alternative to the slotted extension arms (120C), one or more openings may be provided in the extension arm (120) or (120A).

In Figure 24, in one embodiment of the disclosure, the outlet (20A) is mechanically and electrically connected to an Edison type base. The combination device (22A) can be screwed into a standard unmodified recessed lighting fixture (not shown) to form a mechanical and electrical connection. The conductors of the outlet (38) are electrically connected to the neutral and hot contacts of the Edison connector. The outlet (20A) is otherwise identical to the outlet (20) of Figure 8 or another outlet described herein with a release lever (148/148A), which facilitates the release of the outlet (20A) when the device (22A) is embedded inside the accessory

IVIA/t/ZUZZ/UO IOOÓ standard recessed luminaire. The neck (344) can be sized to allow a desired overall height of the device (22A). Likewise, a height of the lever extension (162) may be sized, or may be adjustable, for example, as by threading, as necessary for a particular application, to position a distal end of the lever where a user can push it. .

All references cited herein are expressly incorporated by reference in their entirety. There are many different features of the present disclosure and it is contemplated that these features may be used together or separately. Unless otherwise mentioned, it should be noted that all accompanying drawings are not to scale. Therefore, the disclosure should not be limited to a particular combination of characteristics or to a particular application of the disclosure. Furthermore, it should be understood that variations and modifications within the scope of the disclosure may occur to those skilled in the art to which the disclosure pertains. Accordingly, all appropriate modifications readily available to one skilled in the art from the disclosure set forth herein that are within the scope of the present disclosure should be included as additional embodiments of the present disclosure.

<td></td><td>Reference numbers:</td><td>(104) lever channel</td><td>(134) electrical connector</td>

<td> 20</td><td>(20), (20A) outlet (22), (22A) device fast connection (24), (24A) spindle assembly</td><td>(106) return spring (108), (108A) connection box (110) cam follower (112) outlet body</td><td>(138) pin cavity (144) retaining post (146) retaining slot (148) release lever</td>

<td> 25</td><td>(26) pin body (30), (30A) pin (32) male connector ring (34) outlet slot (36), (36A), (36B), (36C) bracket</td><td>(114) post slot (116) bushing (118) spindle shoulder (120),(120A),(120B),(120C) extension arm</td><td>(150) unlock button (156) locking bolt end (158) cam surface (160) release pin</td>

<td> 30</td><td>(38) outlet conductor (48) sensor/input (50) sensor/output (68) outlet cylinder (70/70A) pin cylinder</td><td>(122) lip opening (123) pin teeth (124), (124A) support flange (126) notch</td><td>side (162) lever extension (200) roof (300), (300A to C) accessory electric</td>

<td> 35</td><td>(72) lock ball (74) locking bolt (76) bolt spring (78) bolt slot (102) electrical accessory</td><td>outlet (128) outlet face (130) prongs of outlet (132) Connection tab</td><td>(302) Accommodation facility (308) electronic circuit board</td>

(310) signal transmitter/receiver (312) installation cap (314) lenses (316) lens holder (318) housing screw tab (320) installation flange (322) LED (324) support base (326 ) side box (328) support channel (330) alt. installation.

(332) tab opening (334) arm extender (336) box openings (338) support tab (340) alt. installation

(342) Edison type base (344) extender neck