Abstract
A light emitter assembly includes a base body, a base electrical connector disposed on the base body, and a light emitter disposed on the base body and electrically connected to the base electrical connector. The light emitter assembly also includes a light housing disposed on the base body and housing the light emitter, and a power receptacle and/or a communication receptacle disposed on the light housing and electrically connected to the base electrical connector. The light housing is configured to allow passage of light therethrough.
Claims
1. A light emitter assembly comprising: a base body; a base electrical connector disposed on the base body; a light emitter disposed on the base body and electrically connected to the base electrical connector; a light housing disposed on the base body and housing the light emitter, the light housing configured to allow passage of light therethough; and a power receptacle and/or a communication receptacle disposed on the light housing and electrically connected to the base electrical connector, the power receptacle and/or the communication receptacle configured to receive an electrical connector of a cable associated with a portable electronic device, wherein the base body defines a longitudinal axis and has a first end portion and a second end portion opposite the first end portion along the longitudinal axis, the base electrical connector is disposed on the first end portion of the base body, and the light emitter and the light housing are disposed on the second end portion of the base body, the light housing extending away from the second end portion of the base body along the longitudinal axis.
2. The light emitter assembly of claim 1, wherein the base electrical connector comprises a male electrical connector configured for threaded receipt by a female light bulb socket.
3. The light emitter assembly of claim 1, wherein the light emitter comprises a light emitting diode.
4. The light emitter assembly of claim 1, wherein the light housing is translucent, thereby diffusing the light passing therethrough.
5. The light emitter assembly of claim 1, wherein the light housing has a first end portion and a second end portion opposite the first end portion along the longitudinal axis, the first end portion of the light housing disposed on the second end portion of the base body, and the power receptacle and/or the communication receptacle is/are disposed on the second end portion of the light housing.
6. The light emitter assembly of claim 1, further comprising a receptacle body disposed on the light housing, the power receptacle and/or the communication receptacle housed by the receptacle body.
7. The light emitter assembly of claim 6, further comprising a frame connected to the base body and housed by the light housing, the frame comprises at least one support extending from the base body past the light emitter to the receptacle body.
8. The light emitter assembly of claim 1, wherein the power receptacle and/or the communication receptacle face oppositely away from the base electrical connector.
Description
DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
(1) FIGS. 1A-1C are side views of exemplary light fixtures.
(2) FIG. 2A is a side view of an exemplary light fixture having a pull-down mechanism in a closed position.
(3) FIG. 2B is a side view of the light fixture of FIG. 2A in an open position.
(4) FIGS. 3A and 3B are side views of an exemplary light fixture.
(5) FIG. 4A is a side view of an exemplary light fixture having a receptacle cover.
(6) FIG. 4B is a side view of the light fixture of FIG. 4A in an open position having a pivoting door.
(7) FIG. 4C is a side view of the light fixture of FIG. 4A in an open position having a sliding door.
(8) FIG. 5A is a side view of an exemplary light fixture having a receptacle cover.
(9) FIG. 5B is a side view of the light fixture of FIG. 5A in an open position having a sliding door.
(10) FIG. 5C is a side view of the light fixture of FIG. 5A in an open position twisting with respect to the fixture body.
(11) FIG. 6A is a side view of an exemplary light fixture in a closed position.
(12) FIG. 6B is a side view of the light fixture of FIG. 6A in an open position.
(13) FIG. 7A is a side view of an exemplary light fixture having a connector body.
(14) FIG. 7B is a side view of the light fixture of FIG. 7A in an open position moving in a vertical motion.
(15) FIG. 7C is a side views of the light fixture of FIG. 7A in an open position moving in a twisting motion.
(16) FIG. 8A is a side view of an exemplary light fixture with a connector body concealing the power and or communication receptacles.
(17) FIG. 8B is a bottom view of the connector body of FIG. 8A.
(18) FIGS. 9A and 9B are side views of exemplary light fixtures.
(19) FIG. 10A is a side view of an exemplary light fixture in a closed position.
(20) FIG. 10B is a side view of the light fixture of FIG. 10A in an open position.
(21) FIG. 11 is a side view of an exemplary light fixture.
(22) FIG. 12 is a side view of a fan fixture.
(23) FIG. 13A is a side view of an exemplary electric connector module for a light or fan fixture in a closed position.
(24) FIG. 13B is a side view of the exemplary electric connector module for a light or fan fixture in an open position.
(25) FIG. 14A is a side view of an exemplary electric connector module for a light or fan fixture in a retracted position.
(26) FIG. 14B is a side view of an exemplary electric connector module for a light or fan fixture in an extended position.
(27) FIG. 15A is a side view of an exemplary electric connector module for a light or fan fixture in a retracted position.
(28) FIG. 15B is a side view of the exemplary electric connector module for a light or fan fixture in an extended position.
(29) FIG. 16A is a top perspective view of an exemplary light bulb fixture including a male electrical connector disposed on a base body and a receptacle body defining a power and/or communication receptacle.
(30) FIG. 16B is a bottom perspective view of the exemplary light bulb fixture of FIG. 16A.
(31) FIGS. 16C and 16D are side views of the exemplary light bulb fixture of FIG. 16A.
(32) FIG. 16E is a top view of the exemplary light bulb fixture of FIG. 16A showing the male electrical connector.
(33) FIG. 16F is a bottom view of the exemplary light bulb fixture of FIG. 16A showing the receptacle body defining the power receptacle and the communication receptacle.
(34) FIG. 17A is a top perspective view of an exemplary light bulb fixture including a support extending between a base body and a receptacle body.
(35) FIG. 17B is a bottom perspective view of the exemplary light bulb fixture of FIG. 17A.
(36) FIG. 18A is a top perspective view of an exemplary light bulb fixture having a base electrical connector configured to mount onto a mounting stem.
(37) FIG. 18B is a bottom perspective view of the exemplary light bulb assembly of FIG. 18A including a receptacle body defining a power receptacle and a communication receptacle.
(38) FIG. 19A is a top perspective view of an exemplary light emitter assembly including a male electrical connector, a light emitter housed within a light housing, and a receptacle body extending away from the light housing.
(39) FIG. 19B is a bottom perspective view of the light emitter assembly of FIG. 19A showing a power receptacle and a communication receptacle defined by the receptacle body.
(40) FIG. 19C is a side view of the light emitter assembly of FIG. 19A including a frame disposed on the base body.
(41) FIG. 19D is a top view of an exemplary receptacle body defining a substantially rectangular cross-section and defining a power receptacle and a communication receptacle.
(42) FIG. 19E is a top view of an exemplary receptacle body defining a substantially circular cross-section and defining a power receptacle and a communication receptacle.
(43) FIG. 20A is a top perspective view of an exemplary light emitter assembly including a male electrical connector, a light emitter housed within a light housing, and a receptacle body recessed within the light housing.
(44) FIG. 20B is a bottom perspective view of the light emitter assembly of FIG. 20A showing a power receptacle and a communication receptacle defined by the receptacle body.
(45) Like reference symbols in the various drawings indicate like elements.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
(46) Owning multiple portable devices, such as laptops, tablets, and smartphones, increases the number of cords and chargers a person may use to charge the portable electronic devices. This multiplicity of cords leads to an increase in cord clutter and/or cord entanglement on the ground, which may lead to a person tripping over the cords.
(47) Referring to FIGS. 1-10, to avoid cords laying on the ground, in some implementations, a light fixture 100 includes a fixture body 110 and a power or communication receptacle 146. The light fixture 100 may be a table lamp, a desk lamp, a chandelier, or other light emitting device. Moreover, the light fixture 100 may be fixed or moveable. In some examples, the light fixture 100 may be a balanced arm lamp, also known as a floating arm lamp, having an adjustable arm which folds for an increase in flexibility and movement. The light fixture 100 may be for indoor or outdoor use.
(48) The power or communication receptacle 146 may be a power receptacle 146a or a communication receptacle 146b or may be both a power and communication receptacle, such as, but not limited to, a universal serial bus (USB) or a high-definition multimedia interface (HDMI). In some examples, the communication receptacle 146b is an Ethernet cable receiver.
(49) The fixture body 110 is configured to support a light emitter 144. The light emitter 144 may be, but is not limited to, an incandescent light bulb, a fluorescent lamp or tube, a compact fluorescent lamp (CFL), or an LED lamp. An incandescent light bulb produces light with a filament wire that produces light when heated to a high temperature. An electric current passing through the wire causes the wire to be heater to the high temperature. Therefore, when a light switch connected to a light bulb is turned on, current passes through the filament wire and increases the temperature of the filament wire to high temperature creating light. A fluorescent lamp or tube is gas charged and contains mercury atoms that are excited when an electrical current passes through the lamp or tube. The excited mercury atoms produce short-wave ultraviolet light producing visible light. Fluorescent lamp or tube is more efficient in producing light than incandescent light bulbs. A compact fluorescent lamp is a fluorescent lamp or tube designed to mimic the size of an incandescent bulb and therefore replace incandescent bulbs. A light-emitting diode (LED) bulb uses light emitting diodes as the source of light. LED bulbs are initially more expensive than fluorescent and incandescent bulbs; however, the LED lights have a higher efficiency and last longer.
(50) Referring to FIGS. 1A-1C, in some examples, the light fixture 100 includes a shroud 120. The shroud 120 may be disposed on the fixture body 110 and may be arranged to at least partially conceal the light emitter 144. The power or communication receptacle 146 is disposed on the fixture body 110 in a location at least partially concealed by the shroud 120 to maintain the aesthetic design of the light fixture 100. As shown, the shroud 120 has a conical shape allowing access to the power or communication receptacle 146; however, the shroud 120 may be of any shape.
(51) In some implementations, the fixture body 110 includes a socket 142 or electric connection 142 of the light emitter 144. The power or communication receptacle 146 may be disposed adjacent the socket 142. In some examples, the fixture body 110 includes more than one socket 142 to receive more than one light emitter 144. Additionally, the power or communication connector 146 may be positioned near or separated from the socket 142. In some examples, the power or communication connector 146 is within between about 1 inch and about 3 inches from the socket 142. In some examples, the fixture body 110 is configured for ceiling 10a or wall 10b mounting, as shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, or a standing light fixture on a floor 10c, as shown in FIG. 1C.
(52) In some implementations, the fixture body 110 includes a mounting stem 112, and a receiver 140. The mounting stem 112 may be one or a combination of a cord, a chain, or a metal chain. The mounting stem 112 may have a first end 112a and a second end 112b. The first end 112a may be configured to mount onto a supporting surface 116. The supporting surface 116 may be a base for connecting the light fixture 100 to the ceiling 10a.
(53) In some examples, the receiver 140 is disposed on the second end 112b of the mounting stem 112. The receiver 140 may include the socket 142 for electric connection of the light emitter 144 and the power or communication receptacle 146.
(54) As shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the fixture body 110 includes a frame 130 for supporting the power and or communication receptacles 146. The frame 130 is connected to a frame stem 114 having a first end 114a attached to the receiver 140 and a second end 114b attached to the frame 130. As shown in FIG. 1C, the power or communication receptacle 146 may be mounted on a frame 130 disposed on the second end 112b of the mounting stem 112.
(55) Referring back to FIG. 1B, the light fixture 100 may further include a receptacle cover 160 disposed on the receiver 140 or the frame 130. The receptacle cover 160 moves between a closed position concealing the power or communication receptacle 146 and an open position allowing access to the power or communication receptacle 146. The receptacle cover 160 may include a pivoting door or a sliding door (not shown).
(56) Referring to FIGS. 2A and 2B, in some implementations, the receiver 140 includes at least one socket 142 for receiving at least one light emitter 144. As shown, the light fixture 100 includes two light emitters 144. In some examples, the fixture body 110 includes a pull-down mechanism 118 having first and second portions. The pull-down mechanism 118 is connected to the receiver 140 (as shown) or the mounting stem 112 and allows the frame 130 to move in a vertical direction within the shroud 120 to allow for easier access to the power or communication receptacle 146.
(57) In some implementations, the receiver 140 includes a power receptacle 146a, a communication receptacle 146b and at least one socket 142 for receiving at least one light emitter 144. A pull-down mechanism 118 may be connected to the mounting stem 112 and allows the receiver 140 to move in a vertical direction within the shroud 120 to allow for easier access to the power or communication receptacle 146. In some examples, as shown, the pull-down mechanism 118 has a first portion 118a connected to the receiver 140 and a second portion 118b connected to the frame 130. The second portion 118b moves with respect to the first portion 118a between a closed or concealed position (FIG. 2A) concealing the power or communication receptacle 146 within the shroud 120 and an open position (FIG. 2B) allowing access to the power or communication receptacle 146. The first and second portions 118a, 118b of the pull-down mechanism 118 may be arranged for telescopic movement.
(58) Examples of pull-down mechanisms 118 may include, but are not limited to, a ball screw, a scissor arrangement, or a spring load. A ball screw includes a threaded shaft that provides a helical track for a ball bearing acting as a precision screw. The ball screw acts as a linear actuator and translates rotational motion to linear motion allowing the second portion 118b of the pull-down mechanism 118b to linearly move in a vertical direction with respect to the shroud 120. As shown in the figures, the scissor arrangement includes two angled arms 119 having a pivoting elbow portion 117. In the closed position (FIG. 2A, the pivoting elbows 117 bend simultaneously and decreased the distance between the first portion 118a of the pull-down mechanism 118 and the receiver 140. In the open position (FIG. B), the pivoting elbows 117 extend simultaneously and increase the distance between the first portion 118a of the pull-down mechanism 118 and the receiver 140 allowing easier access to the power or communication receptacles 146.
(59) Referring to FIGS. 3A-5C, in some implementations, the light fixture 100 has a base 116, a fixture body 110, a shroud 120, a power or communication receptacle 146, and a receptacle cover 160. The fixture body 110 is disposed on the base 116 and is configured to support a light emitter 144. The fixture body 110 includes a frame 130 for supporting the power and or communication receptacles 146. The frame 130 is connected to a frame stem 114 having a first end 114a attached to the receiver 140 and a second end 114b attached to the frame 130.
(60) Referring to FIGS. 4A-4C, in some examples, the shroud 120 is disposed on the fixture body 110 and is arranged to at least partially conceal the light emitter 144. In addition, the power or communication receptacle 146 is disposed on the fixture body 110 away from the base 116. The receptacle cover 160 is disposed on the fixture body 110 and moves between a closed position concealing the power or communication receptacle 146 and an open position allowing access to the power or communication receptacle 146.
(61) In some examples, as shown in FIG. 4B, the receptacle cover 160 is a pivoting door mechanism. The pivoting door mechanism 160 may have a pivoting door 160a, 160b for access to the power or communication receptacle 146. In some instances, the light fixture 100 includes more than one power receptacle 146a and/or more than one communication receptacle 146b. The receptacle cover 160 may include a separate door 160a, 160b for each power or communication receptacle 146.
(62) In some examples, as shown in FIG. 4C, the receptacle cover 160 is a pair of sliding doors 160a, 160b that slide horizontally to provide access to the power and or communication receptacles 146a, 146b. The sliding doors 160a, 160b may slide vertically in an up or down position.
(63) Referring to FIGS. 5A-5C, in some implementations, the frame 130 includes a sliding door 162 sliding in a horizontal direction along a horizontal axis H defined by the fixture body 110. The sliding door 162 may have a handle 164 to slide the sliding 162 door and expose the receptacles 146, see FIG. 5B. In some examples, the fixture body 110 includes a knob 132. The knob 132 may be twisted to open the sliding door 160b, see FIG. 5C.
(64) In some examples, the fixture body 110 further includes a mounting stem 112, a receiver 140, and a frame 130. The receiver 140 is disposed on the mounting stem 112 and defines a socket 142 for electric connection of the light emitter 144. The frame 130 is connected to the receiver 140 and supports the power or communication receptacle 146 spaced away from the socket 142 by a threshold distance D. The threshold distance D may be at least three inches.
(65) Referring to FIGS. 6A and 6B, in some implementations, the fixture body 110 includes a pull-down mechanism 118 having a knob 132. The pull-down mechanism 118 has first and second portions 118a, 118b, where the first portion 118a is connected to the receiver 140 and the second portion 118b is connected to the frame 130. In some examples, a person may grab the knob 132 and pull the frame 130 away from the shroud 120 exposing the power and communication receptacles 146, 146a-b. The person may push the knob 132 towards the shroud 120 therefore hiding the power or communication receptacle 146. In some examples, the pull-down mechanism 118 may be a ball screw having first and second portions 118a, 118b. The first portion 118a of the ball screw is connected to the receiver 140 and the second portion 118b of the ball screw is connected to the frame 130. The frame 130 may rotate with respect to the shroud 120 about a vertical axis V defined by the fixture body 110. In addition, the frame 130 may include more than one communication receptacle 146b.
(66) Referring to FIGS. 7A-7C, in some implementations, the light fixture 100 includes a connector body 180 movably disposed on the fixture body 110 and supporting the power or communication receptacle 146. The connector body 180 moves between a closed position (FIG. 7A) where the power or communication receptacle 146 is concealed by the fixture body 110 or shroud 120 and an open position (FIGS. 7B and 7C) allowing access to the power or communication receptacle 146. A pull-down mechanism 118 may also be included in the light fixture 100. The pull-down mechanism 118 has a first portion 118a connected to the connector body 180 and a second portion 118b moving with respect to the first portion 118a between a closed position concealing the power or communication receptacle 146 and an open position allowing access to the power or communication receptacle 146. In some examples, the second portion 118b includes a knob 132 for pulling or twisting the second portion 118b away from the connector body 180. The knob 132 may fold inside the second portion 118b. Additionally, the second portion 118b may extend to reach a flat surface (e.g., a tabletop) and lay flat on the surface. Referring to FIG. 7B, in some examples, the knob 132 is used for pulling the second portion 118b away from the first portion 118a to allow access to the receptacles 146. The second portion 118b may move along a vertical axis V defined by the fixture body 110.
(67) Referring to FIG. 7C, in some examples, the connector body 180 rotates using the knob 132 with respect to the shroud 120 about the vertical axis V defined by the fixture body 110 to allow access to the power or communication receptacle 146. The connector body 180 may rotate with respect to the shroud 120 about a horizontal axis H defined by the fixture body 110 to allow access to the power or communication receptacle 146.
(68) Referring to FIGS. 8A and 8B, in some implementations, the fixture body 110 includes a connector body 180 that supports the power or communication receptacle 146 when viewed from the bottom (FIG. 8B). This arrangement allows quick and easy access to the power or communication receptacle 146, while partially concealing the power or communication receptacle 146 from ordinary view (e.g., from a side view).
(69) Referring to FIGS. 9A-11B, in some implementations, the light fixture 100 includes a mount 116, a stem 112, a power or communication receptacle 146, at least one arm 113, and a light receiver 142 (e.g., socket). The stem 112 has a first end 112a attached to the mount 116 and extends away from the mount 116 to a second end 112b. The power or communication receptacle 146 is disposed on the second end 112b of the stem 112. The at least one arm 113 has a first end 113a attached to the stem 112 and extends away from the stem 112 to a second end 113b. In addition, the light receiver 142 may be disposed on the second end 113b of at least one arm 113 for receiving a light emitter 144 (e.g., an incandescent light bulb, a fluorescent lamp or tube, a compact fluorescent lamp (CFL), an LED lamp). The power or communication receptacle 146 may be releasably detachable from the fixture body 110.
(70) The light fixture 100 may include a receptacle cover 160 disposed on the second end 112b of the stem 112 (FIG. 9A). The receptacle cover 160 moves between a closed position concealing the power or communication receptacle 146 and an open position allowing access to the power or communication receptacle 146. The receptacle cover 160 may include a pivoting door or a sliding door similar to the sliding and pivoting doors 160 of FIGS. 4A-4C. In some examples, where the power or communication receptacle 146 is disposed on the second end 113b of the arm 113, the receptacle cover 160 may be disposed on the second end 113b of the arm 113 to cover the receptacle 146.
(71) Referring to FIGS. 10A and 10B, in some implementation, the light fixture 100 includes a connector body 180 movably disposed on the second end 112b of the stem 112. The connector body 180 supports the power or communication receptacle 146 and moves between a closed position (FIG. 10A) where the power or communication receptacle 146 is concealed by the fixture body 110 or shroud 120 and an open position (FIG. 10B) which allows access to the power or communication receptacle 146.
(72) In some examples, the light fixture 100 includes a pull-down mechanism 118. The pull-down mechanism 118 includes a first portion 118a connected to the connector body 180 and a second portion 118b moving with respect to the first portion 118a between a closed position concealing the power or communication receptacle 146 and an open position allowing access to the power or communication receptacle 146. The connector body 180 may rotate with respect to the shroud 120 about a vertical axis defined by the stem to allow access to the power or communication receptacle 146. In some examples, the connector body 180 rotates with respect to the shroud 120 or fixture body 110 about a horizontal axis defined by the stem 112 to allow access to the power or communication receptacle 146. The first and second portions 118a, 118b of the pull-down mechanism 118 may be arranged for telescopic movement. Additionally or alternatively, the pull-down mechanism 118 may include a ball screw as previously described with respect to FIGS. 7A-7C. In some examples, the connector body 180 supports the power or communication receptacle 146 arranged to face downward (e.g., when viewed from the bottom similar to FIG. 8B).
(73) Referring to FIG. 11, the light fixture 100 may include a base or mount 116, a power or communication receptacle 146, at least one arm 113, and a light receiver 142 (e.g., socket). In some examples, the light receiver 142 is disposed on a distal receiver 140 attached to the arm 113. The arm 113 has a first end 113a attached to the mount 116 and extends away from the mount 116 to a second end 113b that supports the distal receiver 140. The power or communication receptacle 146 may disposed on the second end 113b of the arm 113 or on the distal receiver 140. In addition, the light receiver 142 may be disposed on the second end 113b of the arm 113 for receiving a light emitter 144 (e.g., an incandescent light bulb, a fluorescent lamp or tube, a compact fluorescent lamp (CFL), an LED lamp). The power or communication receptacle 146 may be releasably detachable from the fixture body 110. In some examples, the light fixture 100 further includes a receptacle cover 160 disposed on the receiver 140 disposed on the second end 113b of the arm 113. The receptacle cover 160 moves between a closed position concealing the power or communication receptacle 146 and an open position allowing access to the power or communication receptacle 146. The receptacle cover 160 may be a pivoting door or a sliding door.
(74) Referring to FIG. 12, in some examples, a fan fixture 200 has a plurality of blades 202 attached to a fan fixture body 210. The blades 202 rotate about a vertical axis F defined by the fan fixture body 210. The fan body 210 includes a mounting stem 212 having a first end 212a connecting to a base 216, which in turn connects to a ceiling 10a. A second end 212b of the mounting stem 212 connects to a fan connector body 280. The fan connector body 280 includes a receptacle 282 for releasably receiving an attachment. In some examples, an electric connector module 300 may be releasably attached to the fan fixture 200 or to a light fixture.
(75) Referring to FIGS. 13A-15B, in some implementations, the module 300 includes a module body 310, a power receptacle 146a or a communication receptacle 146b or both. The module 300 also includes and electric connector 330 to electrically connect to the fan fixture body 210 through the fan receptacle 282. The power or communication receptacle 146 is disposed on the module body 310. An electric connector 330 may be disposed on the module body 310 and arranged to releasably electrically connect the power or communication receptacle 146 to a power or communication line of the fan fixture 200.
(76) Most ceiling fan fixtures 300 are attached to high ceilings 10a to avoid injury if a user attempts to touch the blades 202. Therefore, it might be difficult to reach the module body 310. In some examples, the module body 310 includes a knob 332 attached to a hanging cord 334, which has a handle 336. A user may pull on the handle 336 to extend the module 300 away from the fan fixture 200, from a retracted position to an extended position, allowing the user to reach the power and communication receptacles 146. If the user pulls the handle 336 a second time, then the module 300 may return to its retracted position (FIG. 13B). In some examples, the module 300 may include a remote control (not shown) for controlling powered movement of the module 300 from its retracted position (FIGS. 13A, 14A, 15A) to its extended position (FIGS. 13B, 14B, 15B).
(77) The module mounting stem 318 may include a pull-down mechanism 318. The pull-down mechanism 318 has a first portion 318a and a second portion 318b (FIGS. 14B and 15B). The first portion 318a connects to the fan fixture 200 and the second portion 318b moves with respect to the first portion 318a between a retracted position (FIGS. 13A, 14A, 15A) and an extended position (FIGS. 13B, 14B, 15B). In some examples, when in the retracted position, the power or communication receptacle 146 is concealed (FIG. 13A). The extended position allows access to the power or communication receptacle 146. The first and second portions 318a, 318b of the pull-down mechanism 318 may be arranged for telescopic movement.
(78) In some implementations, the module body 300 supports a light emitter 144 and includes a socket 142 for electric connection of the light emitter 144. The module body 310 may include a mounting stem 318 and a receiver 140. The mounting stem 318 has first and second end portions 318a, 318b, where the first end portion 318a is configured to mount onto a supporting surface (e.g., connector body 280) of the light or fan fixture 200. The receiver 140 is disposed on the second end portion 318b of the mounting stem 318 and supports a socket 142 and the power and/or communication receptacle 146. In some examples, the receiver 140 is concealed by a shroud 320. The receiver 140 may be disposed in a location within an interior area of the shroud 320.
(79) In some implementations, a shroud 320 is disposed on the module body 310 and arranged to at least partially conceal a light emitter 144 supported by the module body 310. The module body 310 may include a socket 142 for electric connection of the light emitter 144.
(80) Referring to FIGS. 14A and 14B, in some examples, the module 300 includes a receiver 140 and a frame 130. The receiver 140 includes a socket 142 for electric connection of the light emitter 144. The frame 130 supports the power and/or communication receptacles 146 and is connected to a frame stem 114 having a first end 114a attached to the receiver 140 and a second end 114b attached to the frame 130.
(81) Referring to FIGS. 15A and 15B, the receiver 140 is disposed outside of the shroud 320, allowing access to the power and communication receptacles 146 without getting close to the light emitter 144. Therefore, a receptacle cover 160 may be disposed on the second end portion 318b of the stem 318 to hide the power and communication receptacles 146 from view. The receptacle cover 160 moves between a closed position to conceal the power or communication receptacle 146 and an open position to allow access to the power or communication receptacle 146. The receptacle cover 160 may include a pivoting door or a sliding door (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 4A-4C).
(82) Referring to FIGS. 16A-18B, in some implementations, a light bulb fixture 500 is configured for receipt by an existing lighting fixture. For instance, the existing lighting fixture may be disposed within a ceiling or may correspond to a conventional lamp, such as a table lamp or a desk lamp. The light bulb fixture 500 includes a base body 510 defining a female light bulb socket 542 configured to receive a light emitter 544 (FIG. 16C), and a base electrical connector 530 disposed on the base body 510. The light emitter 544 may correspond to a light bulb, e.g., an incandescent light bulb, a fluorescent lamp or tube, a compact fluorescent lamp (CFL) bulb, an LED bulb. As shown in FIGS. 16A-17B, the base electrical connector 530 may include a male electrical connector configured for receipt by a female light bulb socket of the lighting fixture. For instance, the male electrical connector 530 may be configured for threaded receipt by the female light bulb socket of the existing lighting fixture 500. The light bulb fixture 500 also includes a receptacle body 540 defining a power receptacle 146, 146a and/or a communication receptacle 146, 146b electrically connected to the male electrical connector 530. At least one support 520 extends between the base body 510 and the receptacle body 540. The at least one support 520 is configured to support the receptacle body 540 on the base body 510 of the light bulb fixture 500 without obstructing a space occupied by the light bulb 144 when received by the female light bulb socket 542. For instance, the at least one support 520 has a first end 520a disposed on the base body 510 and extends away from the base body 510 around the received light bulb 544 to a second end 520b disposed on the receptacle body 540.
(83) In some examples, the power and/or communication receptacle 146 is/are positioned between about one (1) inch and about three (3) inches away from the received light bulb 544. Additionally or alternatively, the power and/or communication receptacle 146 face oppositely away from the female light bulb socket of the lighting fixture. For instance, when the existing lighting fixture is a ceiling lighting fixture, the female light bulb socket thereof may receive the male electrical connector 530 such that the power and/or communication receptacle 146 is accessible for receipt by a power and/or communication cable associated with an electronic device. Thus, the power and/or communication receptacle 146 faces oppositely away from the male electrical connector 530. Accordingly, the existing lighting fixture may provide power to the power and/or communication receptacle 146 when the male electrical connector 530 is electrically connected to the female light bulb socket of the lighting fixture.
(84) Referring to FIGS. 16A-16F, 18A, and 18B, in some implementations, the light bulb fixture 500 includes a pair of supports 520 each having a corresponding first end 520a disposed on the base body 510 and a corresponding second end 520b disposed on the receptacle body 540. FIG. 16E shows the base body 520 defining a substantially circular cross-section and the first ends 520a of the pair of supports 520 diametrically opposed from one another at the base body 510. Similarly, FIG. 16F shows the receptacle body 540 defining a substantially circular cross-section and the second ends 520b of the pair of supports 520 diametrically opposed from one another at the receptacle body 540. One or both of the supports 520 may route electrical wiring for electrically connecting the male electrical connector 530 to the power and/or communication receptacle 146. On the other hand, the examples of FIGS. 17A and 17B show the light bulb fixture 500 including only one support 520 with the first end 520a disposed on the base body 510 and the second end 520b disposed on the receptacle body 540.
(85) Referring to FIGS. 16C and 16D, in some examples, the base body 510 defines a longitudinal axis B and has a first end portion 512 and a second end portion 514 opposite the first end portion 512 along the longitudinal axis B. In the examples shown, the male electrical connector 530 is disposed on the first end portion 512 of the base body 510 and the second end portion 514 of the base body 514 defines the female light bulb socket 542. Accordingly, the male electrical connector 530 and the female light bulb socket 542 are aligned along the longitudinal axis B of the base body 510. Moreover, the receptacle body 540 may define a longitudinal axis R that is substantially coincident with the longitudinal axis B of the base body 510.
(86) In some implementations, the at least one support 520 has a first end portion 522 (terminating at the first end 520a) disposed on the second end portion 514 of the base body 510, a middle portion 524 extending around the received light bulb 544, and a second end portion 526 (terminating at the second end 520b) disposed on and supporting the receptacle body 540. The receptacle body 540 is spaced from the base body 510 by a threshold distance that allows receipt of the light bulb 544 in the female light bulb socket 542. In configurations when the light bulb fixture 500 includes the pair of supports 520, a separation distance between the corresponding middle portions 524 of the pair of supports 520 is greater than a separation distance between the corresponding first portions 522 of the pair of supports 520. Likewise, the separation distance between the corresponding middle portions 524 is greater than a separation distance between the corresponding second portions 526 of the pair of supports 520. As used herein, the separation distances are measured in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis B of the base body 510.
(87) Referring to FIGS. 18A and 18B, in some implementations, the light bulb fixture 500 is configured to mount to a terminal end of a mounting stem 112 (FIGS. 1A-1C) that extends from a supporting surface 116 (FIGS. 1A-1C). The mounting stem 112 may be one or a combination of a cord, a chain, or a metal chain. In some examples, the light bulb fixture 500 mounts onto a mounting stem 112 that extends from a ceiling surface 10a (FIGS. 1A and 1B) such that the power receptacle 146a and/or the communication receptacle 146b faces oppositely away from the ceiling surface 10a and toward a floor 10c (FIG. 1C). In other examples, the light bulb fixture 500 mounts onto a mounting stem 112 associated with a standing light fixture on the floor 10c or table such that the power receptacle 146a and/or the communication receptacle 146b faces oppositely away from the floor 10c. The mounting stem 112 may also extend away from a wall surface 10c, as shown in FIG. 11.
(88) The base electrical connector 530 of FIGS. 18A and 18B is associated with a female electrical connector configured to mount the light bulb fixture 500 to a mounting feature (e.g., mounting stem 112) associated with the existing light fixture. For instance, the base electrical connector 530 may define a passage 532 configured to receive a distal end of the mounting stem 112. In some implementations, the female electrical connector 530 includes a tightening mechanism 534 that allows a user to releasably mount the light bulb fixture 500 to the mounting stem 112. For instance, the tightening mechanism 534 may be rotated by a user in one of a clockwise direction or a counterclockwise direction to clamp the female electrical connector 530 to the mounting stem 112. Electrical wiring may be routed through or along the mounting stem 112 to electrically connect the base electrical connector 530 to the existing light fixture.
(89) Referring to FIGS. 19A-20B, in some implementations, a light emitter assembly 600 is configured for receipt by a female light bulb socket of an existing lighting fixture. For instance, the existing lighting fixture may be disposed within a ceiling or may correspond to a conventional lamp, such as a hanging lamp, a table lamp or a desk lamp. The light emitter assembly 600 integrates a light emitter 644 and a power receptacle 146, 146a and/or a communication receptacle 146, 146b into a single unit that has the appearance and shape of a conventional light bulb. The light emitter assembly 600 includes a base body 610, a base electrical connector 630 disposed on the base body 610, and the light emitter 644 disposed on the base body 610 and electrically connected to the base electrical connector 630. The light emitter assembly 600 also includes a light housing 620 disposed on the base body 610 and housing the light emitter 644. In the examples shown, the power and/or communication receptacle 146 is disposed on the light housing 620 and electrically connected to the base electrical connector 630.
(90) In some examples, base electrical connector 630 includes a male electrical connector 630 configured for threaded receipt by the female light bulb socket of the existing lighting fixture. The light emitter 644 corresponds to an LED lamp in some configurations. In other configurations, the light emitter 544 includes one of an incandescent light bulb, a fluorescent lamp or tube, or a compact fluorescent lamp (CFL). While housing the light emitter 644, the light housing 620 is configured to allow passage of light emitted by the light emitter 644 therethrough. In some implementations, the light housing 620 is translucent to thereby diffuse the light passing therethrough. Moreover, the base body 610 may be formed from materials selected to dissipate heat from the light emitters and/or other circuitry residing thereon. The base body 610 and/or the light housing 620 may enclose electrical wiring 646 (FIG. 19C) configured to provide electrical communication between the base electrical connector 630, the light emitter 644, and the power and/or communication receptacle 146.
(91) Referring to FIG. 19C, in some implementations, the base body 610 defines a longitudinal axis B and has a first end portion 612 and a second end portion 614 opposite the first end portion 512 along the longitudinal axis B. In the example shown, the base electrical connector 630 (e.g., male electrical connector) is disposed on the first end portion 612 of the base body 610, and the light emitter 644 and the light housing 620 are disposed on the second end portion 614 of the base body 610. For instance, the light housing 620 extends away from the second end portion 614 of the base body 610 along the longitudinal axis B thereof. Moreover, the light housing 620 may define a first end portion 622 and a second end portion 624 opposite the first end portion 622 along the longitudinal axis B of the base body 610. In the example shown, the first end portion 622 of the light housing 620 is disposed on the second end portion 614 of the base body 610, and the power and/or communication receptacle 146 is/are disposed on the second end portion 624 of the light housing 620. Thus, the power and/or communication receptacle 146 is/are spaced apart from the base body 610 by the light housing 620 and face oppositely away from the base electrical connector 630 along the longitudinal axis B.
(92) The light emitter assembly 600 may optionally include a frame 642 connected to the base body 610 and configured to support one or more light emitters 644 thereon. For instance, the frame 642 may be disposed on the second end portion 614 of the base body 610 and may support an arrangement of one or more light emitters 644 thereon. For instance, multiple light emitters 644 may be arranged on the frame 642. The frame 642 may incorporate electrical circuitry and/or reflective materials for reflecting light emitted by the at least one light emitter 644 through the light housing 620. In some examples, the frame 642 includes a terminal for electrically connecting the light emitter(s) 644 to the base electrical connector 630 via wiring 646 extending through the base body 610.
(93) Referring to FIGS. 19A-19E, in some implementations, the light emitter assembly 600 further includes a receptacle body 640 disposed on the light housing 620 and housing the power and/or communication receptacle 146. For instance, the receptacle body 620 may be disposed on the second end portion 624 of the receptacle body 640 and may extend away from the second end portion 624 along the longitudinal axis B. FIG. 19D shows the receptacle body 620 defining a substantially rectangular cross-section and housing the power receptacle 146a and the communication receptacle 146b. On the other hand, FIG. 19E shows the receptacle body 640 defining a substantially circular cross-section and housing the power receptacle 146a and the communication receptacle 146b. The receptacle body 620 may house only one of the power receptacle 146a or the communication receptacle 146b in other examples.
(94) Referring back to FIG. 19C, in some examples, the frame 642 connected to the base body 610 and housed by the light housing 620 includes at least one support 650 extending from the second end portion 614 of the base body 610 past the light emitter 644 to the receptacle body 640. The at least one support 650 may support the receptacle body 640 on the base body 610. Additionally, the at least one support 650 may route wiring 646 between the receptacle body 640 and the frame 644 to electrically connect the power and/or communication receptacle 146 to the base electrical connector 630. In some examples, the base electrical connector 630 electrically connects to each of the at least one light emitter 644 and the power and/or communication receptacle 146 via separate wiring. In other examples, the base electrical connector 630 electrically connects to a terminal of the frame 642 via wiring 646 and the frame 642 electrically connects to the power and/or communication receptacle 146 via different wiring to electrically connect the base electrical connector 630 to the power and/or communication receptacle 146.
(95) Referring to FIGS. 20A-20B, in some implementations, the light emitter assembly 600 includes the power receptacle 146a and/or the communication receptacle 146b substantially flush with the light housing 620. Thus, the receptacle body 640 of FIGS. 19A-19E that extends away from the light housing 620 is omitted or recessed within the light housing 620, and at least a portion of the power receptacle 146a and/or the communication receptacle 146b resides within the light housing 620. As the light housing 620 is shaped to include the appearance of a conventional incandescent light bulb, the use of small LEDs as the light emitter 644 frees up space within the light housing 620 that may be used to enclose portions of the power receptacle 146a and/or the communication receptacle 146b. The recessed power and/or communication receptacle 146 may provide the light emitter assembly 600 with a more aesthetically pleasing appearance. In some examples, the power receptacle 146a and/or the communication receptacle 146b is supported by the light housing 620. In other examples, the power receptacle 146a and/or the communication receptacle 146b is supported by the at least one support 650 (FIG. 19C) extending from the frame 642 connected to the base body 610.
(96) A number of implementations have been described. Nevertheless, it will be understood that various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Accordingly, other implementations are within the scope of the following claims.
