Patent Description:
This disclosure relates to <CIT>; <CIT>; and <CIT>; and to <CIT>; <CIT>; and <CIT>.

There are a number of commercially available systems termed 'smart-home environment' systems, which can include one or more sensors and network-connected devices. These smart-home devices can sometimes intercommunicate and integrate together within the smart-home environment. The smart-home devices may also communicate with cloud-based smart-home control and/or data-processing systems in order to distribute control functionality, to access higher-capacity and more reliable computational facilities, and to integrate a particular smart home into a larger, multi-home or geographical smart-home-device-based aggregation.

Techniques for installing electrical fixtures and appliances such as lighting fixtures and fans on walls or ceilings usually require the assistance of a qualified electrician, and the use of a variety of tools and specialized hardware. The procedure for installing or uninstalling such fixtures can also be relatively time consuming, even when performed by an experienced installer, and can be hazardous. In addition to the need for hand-wiring the necessary electrical connections between the fixture and electrical power supply wiring, the installer must make separate mechanical connections for supporting or suspending the fixture in place.

In <CIT> a device for connecting an electrical fixture with electrical power supply wiring, and for mounting the fixture on a support is disclosed. It comprises a socket and a plug as well as a releasable latch carried on the combination of the plug and the socket for releasably mounting the fixture on the support.

<CIT> also dislcoses a relevant device for connecting an electrical fixture with electrical power supply wiring.

It is the object of the invention to further improve the smart electrical connectors and fixtures.

The problem is solved by a device described by the features specified in claim <NUM>.

In the inventive embodiment, the sensing unit is electrically coupled to the plug. The circuit between the electrical fixture and the electrical power wiring is established through the sensing unit.

In the inventive embodiment, the sensing unit wirelessly communicates a sensed condition. The sensing unit wirelessly receives a signal. The signal is a command signal to control the device and/or the associated electrical fixture. The command signal results from the sensed condition.

In the inventive embodiment, the sensing unit wirelessly receives a signal, which is a command signal to control the device and/or the electrical fixture. The sensing unit can include a transmitting sensor for receiving at least one of an RF, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth sensor.

In the present invention, the sensing unit includes an environmental sensor for determining an environmental condition. The environmental condition can include at least one of temperature, humidity, smoke, carbon monoxide, motion, and presence. The sensing unit can include a security sensor. The security sensor can include at least one of a security camera, glass breakage detector, motion/presence detector, and/or emergency lighting.

According to the invention, the plug has a plurality of teeth and the socket has a plurality of teeth, with the plurality of teeth of the plug engaging the plurality of teeth of the socket to limit relative rotational movement of the plug and socket. The teeth can be located on opposing faces or on the circumference of the plug and socket.

Another aspect of the invention relates to a plug for coupling with a socket for a device for connecting an electrical fixture with electrical power supply wiring, and for mounting the fixture on a support, the plug rigidly fixable to the fixture. The plug includes: at least one male connector electrically connected to the fixture and engageable with a contact terminal within the socket to establish a circuit between the electrical fixture and the electrical power wiring; a releasable latch carried on the combination of the plug and the socket for releasably mounting the fixture on the support; and a sensing unit for at least one of wirelessly communicating a sensed condition and wirelessly receiving a signal, with the sensing unit electrically coupled to at least one of the plug and socket.

Preferred embodiments are further described in the dependent claims.

A more complete understanding of the present disclosure, and the attendant advantages and features thereof, will be more readily understood by reference to the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings wherein:.

The disclosure herein relates to the inventor's prior work, such as that set forth above in the documents identified in the Related Patents and Applications section.

A "smart quick connect device" is generally defined as a connector with additional functionality in addition to the traditional capability of providing a connection. A smart quick connect device may include a sensing unit for wirelessly communicating a sensed condition. Alternatively or in addition, a smart quick connect device can include a sensing unit for wirelessly receiving a signal. The signal can be a command signal to control the smart quick connect device and/or the associated electrical fixture. The command signal can be independent of or as a result of the sensed condition.

Referring generally to <FIG>, a quick connect device <NUM> for installing electrical fixtures comprises the combination of a plug <NUM> and mating socket <NUM> with a sensing unit <NUM>. The plug <NUM> and mating socket <NUM> of the device <NUM> function to both establish an electrical connection between an electrical fixture and electrical supply wiring, and mechanically support the fixture on a surface or base, typically a wall, ceiling or floor surface. As used herein, the term "fixture" or "electrical fixture" means any fixture or appliance such as a lighting fixture, ceiling fan, television camera, security device or any other device which is powered by electricity supplied by electrical wiring, and which requires a mechanical connection to support or suspend the fixture. Plug <NUM> is fixedly secured to an electrical fixture (not shown), while the socket <NUM> is secured to either the surface (e.g., wall, ceiling or floor) on which the fixture is to be mounted, or to an electrical junction box.

The structure, function, and operation of plug <NUM> and mating socket <NUM> have already been detailed in, for example, the patents and application referred to. Accordingly, this disclosure will focus on the structure, function, and operation of sensing unit <NUM>.

Although, according to the invention, sensing unit <NUM> is shown connected to plug <NUM>, sensing unit <NUM> could be connected to socket <NUM> as shown in <FIG>, which is not part of the present invention. In the claimed embodiment the sensing unit <NUM> is connected to plug <NUM> since different sensing unit <NUM> with different functionality and features can be interchangeably attached to the same plug <NUM>. This allows not only the fixture to be changed, but also the sensing unit <NUM> could be changed.

Plug <NUM>, which receives electricity from socket <NUM>, is electrically coupled to sensing unit <NUM> via pins <NUM>, which insert into receptacles <NUM>. Each of the receptacles can be provided with a channel <NUM> for establishing electrical connection with the fixture. Alternatively, sensing unit <NUM> can be provided with means for establishing an electrical connection with the fixture.

Plug <NUM> has a spindle assembly <NUM> for releasably mechanically connecting plug <NUM> to socket <NUM>. A push button <NUM>, which extends from the lower end of a barrel <NUM>, provides a means of actuating spindle assembly <NUM> using either a finger or a tool. The lower end of barrel <NUM> is threaded <NUM> so as to receive a nut <NUM> (and optionally a locking washer <NUM>). Threading <NUM> with nut <NUM> secures sensing unit <NUM> to plug <NUM>. Spindle assembly <NUM> can also be used to mount a fixture to the plug <NUM>. The electrical fixture may be secured to the plug <NUM> in any of a variety of ways. For example, the fixture may be fixedly attached by or to a guard cover, or directly to the lower threaded section of barrel <NUM>. Alternatively, the fixture may be secured to a piece of mounting hardware, such as a "hickey" threaded onto the lower end of barrel <NUM>. In any event, it may be appreciated that the weight of the fixture is transmitted through barrel <NUM> to spindle <NUM>, socket <NUM>, and then to a mounting strap <NUM>, which in turn is secured to socket <NUM>. As is well known, mounting strap <NUM> can be fixed to a junction box, wall or other structure on which the fixture is to be mounted.

Sensing unit <NUM> is provided with one or more sensors <NUM>, <NUM>. Sensors <NUM> are receiver sensors, for receiving a signal. Non-limiting examples of the signals that can be received are set forth below. Sensors <NUM> are transmitter sensors, for transmitting a signal. Non-limiting examples of the signals that can be transmitted are also set forth below. Sensors <NUM>, <NUM> can be mounted on any surface of sensing unit <NUM>, depending on the application.

Depending on sensors <NUM>, <NUM>, sensing unit <NUM> can allow operation of device <NUM> with a hand held remote using, for example, RF, Wi-Fi, or Bluetooth. Again, depending on sensors <NUM>, <NUM>, environmental conditions such as a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, smoke and CO sensors, and/or motion/presence detection can be determined. In this regard, sensing unit <NUM> can be used as part of a security system, with sensors <NUM>, <NUM> being a security camera (with or without motion activation), glass breakage detector, motion/presence detector, and/or emergency lighting (with battery backup).

Several different circuit boards for sensing unit <NUM> were developed that are intended to attach to and integrate with the smart quick connect device <NUM> and each one has varying amounts of circuitry and function depending upon the intended usage. Exemplary circuits and concepts are now described in general without a distinction of which board exactly contains which function.

In general, and as shown in <FIG>, a sensing unit board <NUM> of the disclosure can be divided into the three different circuits described below, or any number of integrated or discrete circuits:.

The purpose of this circuit is to derive a low voltage (for example, <NUM> to <NUM>. 6v) from the high voltage AC lines. This low voltage is used to power the control circuit described below. Although the disclosure contemplates that any manner in which low voltage is obtained from high voltage AC lines can be used, two different exemplary approaches to generate the low voltage supply are now described. The first uses a mains rated capacitor, a Zener diode and other related components to provide the low voltage supply. Although this approach is simple and can be inefficient, supplying only limited current, it can be sufficient for certain applications. The second approach is a switched mode power supply (SMPS). The SMPS is more complicated, requiring more components but it is more efficient and allows higher levels of power usage by the control logic.

In one embodiment, the control circuit is implemented using a TI MSP430 low power micro-controller. The controller monitors input from various input sources and can then use that information to take actions related to controllable outputs.

A partial list of input sources includes, but is not limited to, the following:.

A partial list of output targets includes, but is not limited to, the following. These outputs can be activated based upon connected input sources, or by remote commands received from the communications module.

The circuit which actually throttles the AC power destined for the load (for example, a light, a fan, or a combination light and fan fixture) under the control of the control and communications circuit described above are either TRIACs or IGBTs. These devices are switched on/off at different times during the AC cycle to control how much power is actually passed to the load and determine fan speeds (low to high) and light level (dim to bright).

As best seen in <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>, a quick connect device <NUM> for installing electrical fixtures comprises the combination of a plug <NUM> and mating socket <NUM>. The present disclosure contemplates that device <NUM> can be used with or without sensing unit <NUM>, which can be located on plug <NUM> and/or socket <NUM>. The device <NUM> functions to both establish an electrical connection between an electrical fixture and electrical supply wiring, and mechanically support the fixture on a surface or base, typically a wall, ceiling or floor surface. As used herein, the term "fixture" or "electrical fixture" means any fixture or appliance such as a lighting fixture, ceiling fan, television camera, security device or any other device which is powered by electricity supplied by electrical wiring, and which requires a mechanical connection to support or suspend the fixture. Plug <NUM> is fixedly secured to an electrical fixture <NUM>, while the socket <NUM> is secured to either the surface (e.g., wall, ceiling or floor) on which the fixture is to be mounted, or to an electrical junction box <NUM>.

Unless otherwise shown or described herein, the structure, function, and operation of plug <NUM> and mating socket <NUM> have already been detailed in, for example, the patents and application referred to, and elsewhere herein. Accordingly, this disclosure will focus on the improvements in structure, function, and operation of plug <NUM> and mating socket <NUM> as well as other related improvements.

One such improvement is the location of teeth <NUM> on plug <NUM> and socket <NUM>. In the related patents and application, these teeth are located on the opposing faces of plug <NUM> and socket <NUM>. This arrangement of teeth <NUM> is shown in <FIG> for comparison purposes. In contrast and as shown in the remaining FIGS. , teeth <NUM> can alternatively be located on the peripheral surfaces of the opposing faces of plug <NUM> and socket <NUM>. This has been found to minimize the effects of temperature, humidity, and other environmental conditions in the mating of teeth <NUM> to rotationally fix plug <NUM> with respect to socket <NUM>. In a non-limiting example, each of teeth <NUM> may be approximately <NUM> in height and approximately <NUM> in width.

Irrespective of the location of teeth <NUM>, the plurality of circumferentially spaced, radial extending indexing teeth <NUM>, preferably integrally molded into socket <NUM> and plug <NUM>, interengage or mesh when plug <NUM> and socket <NUM> are mated to prevent plug <NUM> and socket <NUM> from rotating relative to each other. Prior to teeth <NUM> engaging, plug <NUM> and socket <NUM> are free to rotate relative to each other. With the dual position locking mechanism of plug <NUM> and socket <NUM> described later and akin to that disclosed in related application <CIT>, in the initial locking position, plug <NUM> is held a distance away from socket <NUM> so that relative rotation between plug <NUM> and socket <NUM> is possible while plug (with or without the fixture attached to plug <NUM>) is held the distance away. In the second locking position, teeth <NUM> of plug <NUM> engage teeth <NUM> of socket <NUM> to prevent axial and rotational movement of plug <NUM> with respect to socket <NUM>. The circumferential arrangement of the teeth enables positioning of an attached plug and associated device at as many radial orientations as there are teeth, throughout a <NUM> degree range. Socket <NUM>/<NUM> and mating plug <NUM>/<NUM> can be formed with a body or casing that is fire retardant.

By positioning teeth <NUM> aligned axially and alongside surfaces of socket <NUM> and plug <NUM>, a contact surface between socket <NUM> and plug <NUM> can be increased by lengthening teeth <NUM> on each of socket <NUM> and plug <NUM>. This additionally helps ensure continued engagement if socket <NUM> and plug <NUM> expand or contract, due to temperature, to differing extents. For example, the length of teeth <NUM> can be determined based upon a maximal difference in relative sizes of socket <NUM> and plug <NUM> along the axial direction of the plug and socket. Further, increasing overlap for axially aligned teeth does not result in a change in tooth pitch, whereas increasing overlap radially requires increasing the diameter, or having areas of reduced pitch, which can be more easily affected by an expansion differential between socket <NUM> and plug <NUM>.

<FIG> shows socket <NUM> installed in a standard electrical junction box <NUM>. In this embodiment, mounting strap <NUM> is generally U-shaped and is provided with an aperture <NUM> on each of its outer extremities or flanges <NUM> which receives a screw <NUM> to mount the strap <NUM>, and thus the entire device <NUM>, on a suitable mounting surface. In the illustrated embodiment, the spacing between the apertures <NUM> is selected so that the strap <NUM> can be affixed to a common electrical junction box <NUM> formed of metal or plastic and having threaded holes or nuts into which the screws <NUM> may be driven. The U-shaped configuration of the strap <NUM> allows the socket <NUM> to be recessed within the junction box, as illustrated in <FIG>. However, in those applications where it is necessary to mount the socket <NUM> directly on a wall or ceiling without use of a junction box, a flat strap may be employed. Socket <NUM> can be secured to the strap <NUM> by means of screws. However, other techniques may be used to secure the socket <NUM> to the strap <NUM>.

<FIG> depict a face plate <NUM> that can be used to cover the space in electrical junction box <NUM> that socket <NUM> does not cover. Face plate <NUM> can provide a more aesthetically pleasing appearance and eliminates access to exposed energized parts that are not otherwise protected by socket <NUM>. This can be particularly useful in situations, which is often the case, in which there will be some time in between installation of socket <NUM> and plug <NUM> (with a fixture attached). Although face plate <NUM> is shown as generally circular, any suitable shape could be used. The edge of face plate <NUM> can be provided with a rim <NUM> so that rim <NUM> is substantially flush with the mounting surface. Face plate <NUM> is provided with an opening <NUM> to accommodate socket <NUM>. To accommodate mounting strap <NUM>, face plate <NUM> has a cut out <NUM> as shown in <FIG> into which flanges <NUM> recess. Resilient tabs <NUM> deflect outward and deflect back in to hold face plate <NUM> to mounting strap <NUM>. The present disclosure contemplates that means other than resilient tabs <NUM> can be utilized to releasably hold face plate <NUM> to mounting strap <NUM>.

At this point, the fixture can be connected to socket <NUM> via plug <NUM> for immediate use as shown in <FIG>. As shown in <FIG>, a face plate centerpiece <NUM> can be attached to socket <NUM> or face plate <NUM> to create a cover plate to protect (from painting, dust, etc.) socket <NUM> and for aesthetic purposes until a later time when the fixture is connected. <FIG> show one embodiment of a face plate centerpiece <NUM>. The front of centerpiece <NUM> can have a design to match that of face plate <NUM> so as to provide a continuous or near continuous appearance. The back of centerpiece <NUM> can be provided with an upstanding, peripheral edge <NUM> which is received in tight frictional engagement over the lower cylindrical portion of socket <NUM>. This frictional engagement is sufficient to hold centerpiece <NUM> in place. Alternatively, or in addition to peripheral edge <NUM>, centerpiece <NUM> can have a post <NUM> that is receiving in central bore <NUM> of socket <NUM>. As shown, post <NUM> is in two portions so as to deflect inward upon insertion into bore <NUM> and deflect back outward to secure centerpiece <NUM> to socket <NUM>.

Any of a wide variety of devices can be connected to socket <NUM>/<NUM>, including any of a fixed or PTZ (pan tilt zoom) camera; fan; video projector; hanging display which can be illuminated; video display; chandelier; camera housing; smoke detector; video intercom; wall sconce with individual or multiple heads; toys and moving objects; emergency lighting; outdoor lighting; exit sign; decorative lighting; interface to smartphone, tablet, or other computing device; sensing unit as described herein, or other devices or sensors as described herein.

<FIG> shown another embodiment of a face plate <NUM> according to the disclosure. Face plate <NUM> is similar to face plate <NUM> but also has slots <NUM> that match screw holes <NUM> on mounting strap <NUM> so that slots <NUM> align with screw holes <NUM>. As a result, screws <NUM> would secure both socket <NUM> and face plate <NUM> to electrical junction box <NUM>.

<FIG> schematically shows the simplified installation process of device <NUM>, regardless of whether the fixture is a ceiling fan or light fixture. After the standard electrical junction box is installed, socket <NUM> is mounted onto junction box <NUM> via mounting strap <NUM> of socket <NUM>. Optionally, face plate <NUM> can be installed. At this point, the fixture can be quick-connected into socket <NUM> via plug <NUM>.

Device <NUM> allows for safer wiring, installation and removal of light fixtures and ceiling fans. Once the socket and face plate are in place, there are no longer exposed energized parts. Heavy or bulky fixture components no longer have to be supported while making wire connections to the electrical circuit. Installation, connection and maintenance of the fixture are inherently safer because heavy and bulky units do not have to be maneuvered while the socket is being installed, where the installer is typically on a ladder or lift.

Regarding the weight handling capacity, the double locking mechanism ensures the socket and plug fitting can bear the load; the double locking mechanism holds up to <NUM> pounds and has been tested to failure at <NUM> pounds. However, the load is limited by the capacity of the outlet box, which is normally <NUM> pounds for ceiling fans or <NUM> pounds for light fixtures, unless listed and labeled otherwise (e.g., indicated greater weight capacity).

<FIG> shows the double locking mechanism <NUM>. The double locking mechanism <NUM> can be in socket <NUM>, which can be used for any suitable fixture, or fan socket <NUM>, which has an additional locking feature that can be beneficial for holding the added weight of a ceiling fan.

As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, fan socket <NUM> has a mounting strap <NUM> that while sharing the same general function and some features of mounting strap <NUM>, differs from mounting strap <NUM>. In this embodiment, mounting strap <NUM> is generally U-shaped and is provided with an aperture <NUM> on each of its outer extremities or flanges <NUM> which receives a screw <NUM> to affix the strap <NUM>, and thus fan socket <NUM> to a common electrical junction box <NUM> formed of metal or plastic and having threaded holes or nuts into which the screws <NUM> may be driven. The U-shaped configuration of the strap <NUM> allows the fan socket <NUM> to be recessed within junction box <NUM>, as illustrated in <FIG>.

Flanges <NUM> of mounting strap <NUM> flare outward and have an arcuate outer curvature <NUM> that is similar to the curvature for the canopy of ceiling fans. An edge <NUM> extends from the outer curvature <NUM> and includes a track <NUM> for receiving a mounting bracket for the ceiling fan. The track <NUM>/screw <NUM> combination provides an additional locking mechanism for increased mechanical support.

With reference to <FIG>, cover, or canopy <NUM>, is provided for safety and aesthetic purposes, and further for the purpose of exposing means for releaseably connecting to a fixture, and particularly to a suspended non-electrical or electrical fixture. Canopy <NUM> has an inner face which conceals quick connect device, electrical wires, and electrical junction box, and is further provided with a centrally located aperture <NUM>. Aperture <NUM> is sized at least sufficiently large to allow the passage of push rod <NUM>. Where canopy <NUM> is bell shaped, or has an extended depth, as shown, an extending member, such as long push rod <NUM> or <NUM>', or an elongated push rod <NUM> extends through aperture <NUM>.

An open or closed supporting extension <NUM>, extends from the outer face of canopy <NUM>, connected to plug <NUM>. In the embodiment shown in <FIG>, extension <NUM> threadably engages guide barrel <NUM>, which in turn threadably engages coupler <NUM>, which in turn threadably engages spindle assembly <NUM>. An aperture <NUM> is provided in extension <NUM> to allow the passage of push rod <NUM>, or as shown, long push rod <NUM>' threadably connected to push rod <NUM>. A rod cap <NUM> may be provided to facilitate pushing long push rod <NUM>' with a finger. Push rod <NUM>' is sized so that, with cap <NUM> in place, it is sufficiently long to allow operation of spindle assembly <NUM> to disengage, as described above, when pushed upwardly.

With further reference to <FIG>, canopy <NUM> is maintained in a desired position by a shoulder <NUM> on extension <NUM>, sized larger than aperture <NUM> in canopy <NUM>. Alternatively, with reference to <FIG>, aperture <NUM> is sized sufficiently large to allow passage of extension <NUM>, but not ring <NUM>, the latter being threadably engaged with the base of extension <NUM>, and operative thereby to maintain canopy <NUM> in position.

It should be understood that extension <NUM> may be connected to the lower threaded portion <NUM> of barrel <NUM> by a variety of means. For example, extension <NUM> may be formed integrally with canopy <NUM>, or may be connected to canopy <NUM> by welding, adhesion, or other known method, and canopy <NUM> thence connected to plug <NUM> by a coupling attached thereto (not shown), threaded to spindle assembly <NUM>. Alternatively, extension <NUM> may be advantageously used without canopy <NUM>, where the latter is neither needed nor desired. Extension <NUM> is connected to spindle assembly <NUM> as described above, however canopy <NUM> is not present.

It should be further understood that extension <NUM> may be effectively formed in a variety of open or closed shapes, including the embodiments 504a through 504e, as shown in <FIG>.

Where an electrical fixture is provided with a hook operative to suspend same, the fixture may be directly connected to extension <NUM>. Where an electrical fixture is provided with a loop, such as a chain, to suspend same, and where extension <NUM> is similarly formed as a closed loop, the electrical fixture may be connected to extension <NUM> with the use of an interposed linking member that may be disconnected, such as quick link <NUM>, shown in <FIG>, or other known means for releaseably connecting two closed loops.

With reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, electrical wires <NUM> are connected to plug <NUM>, and an electrical fixture, as described above, and pass therebetween through canopy <NUM>, or through extension <NUM>. If passing through canopy <NUM>, wires <NUM> pass through a conveniently located aperture, such as <NUM>, and if needed, a protective grommet <NUM> is provided at the passage. Alternatively, as can be seen in <FIG>, wires <NUM> pass through extension <NUM> at aperture <NUM>. It should be understood, however, that extension <NUM> may be advantageously used to connect fixtures not requiring an electrical connection.

It should be further understood that supporting extension <NUM> can be advantageously utilized with a lateral actuator assembly of the type shown and described with respect to <FIG>, wherein aperture <NUM> need not be provided, and extension <NUM> is connected to plug <NUM> by other means, such as through a mechanical attachment, or through attachment to canopy <NUM>, as described above.

Referring now to <FIG>, device <NUM> includes a plug <NUM> which is mechanically and releasably connected to sensing unit <NUM>, for example by threads <NUM>, or alternatively by a press-fit connection, adhesive, clips, acoustic welding, or any other mechanical connection method.

In an embodiment, plug <NUM> (or plug <NUM>) is electrically connected to sensing unit <NUM> using pins <NUM>, or alternatively by contacts, one or more plug and socket connections, or by any other electrical connection type. Alternatively, sensing unit <NUM> can form a connection directly to a wiring system of the edifice into which a device of the disclosure is installed, without connecting to plug <NUM>.

In an alternative embodiment, sensing unit <NUM> does not form a wired connection to either plug <NUM> or wiring of the edifice, and is battery operated and can communicate using one or more forms of wave energy transmission.

The assembly of plug <NUM> and sensing unit <NUM> is collectively contained within a housing <NUM> having windows <NUM> as required for transmission of light or other wave energy between sensing unit <NUM> and an exterior of housing <NUM>. More particularly, windows <NUM> align with sensors <NUM>, <NUM> of sensing unit <NUM> when sensing unit <NUM> is mounted within housing <NUM>. For appearance, and to keep contaminants and objects away from sensors <NUM>, <NUM>, some or all of windows <NUM> can be covered by a covering material <NUM> that transmits, advantageously with minimal loss, the type of energy used by the sensor <NUM>, <NUM>. For example, covering material <NUM> can be a transparent glass or plastic pane, a screen, or a lens.

The assembly of plug <NUM> and sensing unit is positioned within housing <NUM> so that a top surface <NUM> of housing unit <NUM> is positioned a predetermined distance from socket <NUM>/<NUM>, which may be mounted, for example upon a ceiling, vertical wall, or floor. In <FIG>, plug <NUM> includes a barrel <NUM> having threads <NUM> which extend from a central body <NUM> of plug <NUM>. A threaded fastener, for example nut <NUM>, can be threaded onto barrel <NUM> so that a lower surface <NUM> of housing <NUM> is clamped between nuts <NUM> to dispose plug <NUM> at the correct orientation with respect to housing <NUM>.

In an embodiment, device <NUM> comprises only plug <NUM>, sensing unit <NUM>, and housing <NUM>. Device <NUM> is releasably attachable using spindle <NUM> to a socket <NUM> mounted to the edifice. This assembly can then function to provide the sensing, communications, transmission, and other functions as described herein. These functions can include any or all of, for example, BLUETOOTH communication of information; WiFi communication, for example with a function of hub, router, access point, or relay; a motion sensor to detect movement, or an infrared sensor to detect the presence of humans or animals, useable for example to control an HVAC system or to provide input for an alarm or monitoring system; thermostat; camera for communication, or for an alarm or monitoring system; speaker; smoke detector; fire detector; occupancy detector using any of a variety of appropriate sensors, such as motion, infrared, audio, image detection, image recognition, or air pressure; humidity sensor, for example to protect art or identify leaks or water intrusion; and a power consumption meter to detect intrusion or to improve efficiency; and smoke and/or air quality sensors. Herein, for brevity, the term 'sensor' is used to collectively refer to any device which can carry out one or more of the foregoing functions, and it should therefore be understood that a 'sensor' herein can sense a condition, actuate, transmit, receive, both send and receive, or is otherwise configured to carry out any of the foregoing functions.

As shown in <FIG>, a hanging lamp <NUM> is connected to a hickey type connector <NUM> threaded onto barrel <NUM>. A supporting electrical wire <NUM> passes through an aperture <NUM> in housing <NUM>, and is connected to plug central body <NUM> at connector channels <NUM>. Push button <NUM> is accessible within connector <NUM> to release device <NUM> together with the hanging lamp. While a hanging lamp is illustrated, it should be understood that a floor lamp or wall sconce could be created in a like manner, although a rigid connection between device <NUM> and the lamp can be provided, as understood within the art. In these embodiments, socket <NUM>/<NUM> is mounted in the floor or wall, respectively. A chain or other tether can be provided together with wire <NUM> for heavier suspended devices, such as swag lamps. For certain applications, the chain or tether forms one or more conductors, as understood within the art.

Turning now to <FIG>, in an embodiment of the disclosure, a fan, fan/light, or lamp head <NUM> includes a sensing unit <NUM>. The lamp head <NUM> can form a housing 320B, which may be integral with a housing of lamp head <NUM>, or a sensing unit <NUM> can connected to lamp head <NUM> to expose the sensors <NUM>, <NUM> as required. In <FIG>, a sensor/camera 50A is mounted on an underside of lamp head <NUM>, useable for detecting occupancy, movement, intrusion, or communications, for example. A wide angle lens can be used to obtain coverage of an entire room or overlapping area. It is noted that the shapes of sensors <NUM>, <NUM>, 50A in the drawings are representative, typical, or arbitrary, and that sensors can have a wide variety of appearances, from not visible, to elongated, or any other shape. Further, sensors may be developed in the future which are useable in accordance with the disclosure and which may have a distinct appearance. Sensors may additionally extend from a surface of sensing unit <NUM>, 320A, 320B, including for example an antenna or a movable camera.

In <FIG>, central body <NUM> of plug <NUM> includes five connector channels <NUM>, which include a ground, neutral, and line (hot) connector, and two connectors for a serial data connection. Accordingly, plug <NUM> includes at least five corresponding male concentric connector rings <NUM> as described in the references, and socket <NUM> likewise includes at least five female recesses <NUM> and terminals <NUM>, all as shown, generally, in <FIG> and <FIG>. The basic functioning of the connector rings and female recesses are described in the references.

A low voltage signal generated by a remote device, such as a network switch or external sensor board power supply, or a connected device, such as board <NUM> and or sensor <NUM>, <NUM>, can be placed on a concentric connector ring <NUM> which protrudes from the plug <NUM>, <NUM> or socket <NUM>, <NUM> body, as it may be contacted by a person without potential for harm. In such embodiments, each of a mating set of socket <NUM>, <NUM> and plug <NUM>, <NUM> include extending conductor rings <NUM> and corresponding mating recesses <NUM>.

If high voltage (e.g. <NUM> or 240v) is used for operation of the lamp head <NUM>, there may be certain electrical code restrictions with respect to passing the serial data wires through the same raceway or conduit as the high voltage cables. In some instances, it is acceptable if all wires are separately housed in insulation which is rated for the same maximum voltage. In other cases, suitable barriers can be provided which separate the high and low voltage cables. Alternatively, it is possible to produce the lamp head <NUM> to operate at low voltage, particularly in light of available low voltage LED lighting, signal and power conductors could be placed within the same conduit and junction box. Alternatively, low and high voltage wires connected to socket <NUM> could be directed to separate raceways at the mounting location.

Two serial data conductors enable transmission of sensor data to and from sensors <NUM>, <NUM>, using any known protocol, including for example Firewire, USB, RS-<NUM>, or any other standard or proprietary format. In another embodiment, there are four serial data wire connections within plug <NUM> and socket <NUM>, corresponding to the four conductors of a standard Ethernet CAT5 or <NUM> cable, or other cable configuration, such as CAT <NUM> or a hereinafter developed network cable standard. In this manner, socket <NUM> can be connected to standard Ethernet compatible hubs, switches, and routers, to form part of a local or wide area network, including a local LAN or the Internet. In a further embodiment, only four connections are provided upon plug <NUM> and socket <NUM>, corresponding to a PoE (Power over Ethernet) connection, whereby both data and power for board <NUM> and lighting, if present, are carried by the Ethernet cable. In one embodiment, lamp head <NUM> is an emergency light which, together with other such lights, provides sufficient light to enable evacuation of the edifice in an emergency. It should be understood that plug <NUM>/<NUM> and socket <NUM>/<NUM> can be fabricated with any number of connections, and any combination of low voltage low power and high voltage higher power connectors as are needed, within space constraints and with regard to the safety and strength of the device.

In <FIG>, housing 320A forms a canopy sufficiently large to house a centrally located supporting electrical wire <NUM>, and a release lever <NUM>. In the embodiment shown, release lever <NUM> rotates about pivot <NUM> to engage and depress button <NUM>, to release plug <NUM>. Other forms of release lever are shown and described in the references, and can alternatively be used in this embodiment. In the embodiment shown, a canopy shape is created by elongating sidewalls <NUM>, and forming lower housing surface 350A to curve toward a center region. However, housing 320A can be provided in any shape for any particular purpose, including providing sufficient space for all components, for example housing components associated with the edifice, such as a protruding electrical box or other obstruction, or a retractable cord. Alternatively, or additionally, housing 320A has a shape that is selected for appearance.

Screws <NUM> support housing <NUM> with respect to sensing unit <NUM>, the latter affixed to plug <NUM> by barrel <NUM>, threads <NUM>, and nuts <NUM>. Alternatively, housing <NUM> can be affixed directly to barrel <NUM>, or to plug <NUM> or sensing unit <NUM> by any other means, such as adhesive, press fit, or clips, for example. Lamp head <NUM> is shown hanging from the embodiment of <FIG> (via reference "A"), although as with other embodiments herein, the assembly of <FIG> can be arranged as a floor lamp or sconce.

With reference to <FIG>, it may be seen that the lamp head 420A of <FIG> can be directly affixed to plug <NUM>, for example by using nuts <NUM> as illustrated, with button <NUM> extending and accessible through an aperture in a housing <NUM> of lamp head 420A. Accordingly, camera 50A has been offset to enable a central clearance for button <NUM>. Alternatively, a release lever <NUM> can be employed. Lamp head 420A can be used and configured as a floor lamp, ceiling lamp, or sconce. As with all embodiments herein, devices can be configured for indoor or outdoor used, advantageously incorporating appropriate seals, and using weather and UV rated materials.

<FIG> illustrates a device <NUM> of the disclosure which includes a low-profile housing <NUM> and a plug 222A having a shortened or truncated barrel <NUM>, plug 222A otherwise including all of the components of plug <NUM> and functioning in a like manner as described herein and in the references. A two pronged release lever 342A spans a center of lower housing surface <NUM>, enabling a central mounting for supporting electrical wire <NUM> or other centrally mounted object, such as a rigid lamp support. Two ends <NUM> extend through housing <NUM>, and can be pressed by two fingers or a suitably configured tool, to press button <NUM> and release plug <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a device <NUM> formed as an assembly including device <NUM> and lamp head 420A. Other sensing and non-sensing devices of the disclosure, for example those of <FIG> or others herein, could alternatively be used instead of device <NUM> to form device <NUM>. In the embodiment of <FIG>, a supporting electrical wire <NUM>, or a rod or other attachment structure, extends from housing <NUM> and is affixed to an extension housing 320C at a distance from housing <NUM>. Extension housing 320C contains a plug <NUM>, whereby a lamp head 420A such as is shown in <FIG> can be connected, or any other device including a plug <NUM>. The completed assembly, at a reduced scale, is shown in <FIG>. As such, an assembly <NUM> including a plug <NUM>, sensor unit <NUM>, supporting electrical wire <NUM> or other extension, and extension housing 320C forms an integral unit that can be installed between any device having a plug <NUM> and any socket <NUM>. In so doing, a sensor array can be used to not only provide a sensor unit, but to change or extend a location of a connected device. Further the lamp head can be exchanged for an alternate device to suit an intended use for an area, or to update or redecorate. Additionally, devices <NUM> can be daisy-chained, or connected one to another, to provide additional or redundant features.

In <FIG>, extension housing 320E is configured to include sensors as shown and described with respect to device <NUM> or <NUM>, for example. More particularly, a sensing board <NUM> can be provided within housing 320E, or board <NUM> can be provided in another component, and sensors <NUM>, <NUM> are connected by wires to a remote sensing board <NUM>. In the embodiment shown, wires <NUM> connect sensors <NUM>, <NUM> to board <NUM>, and wires <NUM> carry a processed or pre-processed signal through wire <NUM> to be used elsewhere, as described herein. Accordingly, the embodiment of <FIG> provides for a socketed or female extension device which can position sensors proximate any electrical fixture having a plug <NUM>, <NUM> as described herein, regardless of whether or not the electrical fixture has incorporated sensors, such as are shown in <FIG>, for example.

While the embodiment of <FIG> is shown connected to device <NUM> which includes a sensing unit <NUM>, a conventional lamp, fan, or fan/light, or any other device provided with plug <NUM> can be connected. Similarly, extension housing 320E can be provided, as shown in <FIG>, and a conventional lamp <NUM> or other extended device can be additionally be connected to an assembly such as is shown in <FIG>, or <FIG>, or other device of the disclosure that includes sensors <NUM>, <NUM>. Alternatively, where extension housing 320E is provided, an additional sensor assembly can be omitted. <FIG> further illustrates that sensors <NUM>, <NUM>, 50A can be disposed additionally or solely upon lower housing surface <NUM> of any housing <NUM> or 350A-E, herein.

Turning now to <FIG>, a fan/light device <NUM> includes a canopy or housing 320D which includes a gimbal support <NUM>. As illustrated adjacent to device, a plug <NUM> is mounted inside canopy 320D to be connectable to a socket <NUM> mounted to a wall, ceiling, or floor. An extension rod <NUM> is slideably supported within device <NUM> to contact button <NUM>, and includes a distal end <NUM> which is pushable to disconnect plug <NUM> from a socket <NUM>. Various alternative embodiments of such extension push-rods are discussed in the references.

A light cover <NUM> is removable to reveal distal end <NUM>, which can be pushed when it is desired to release device <NUM>. Light cover <NUM> includes a lens <NUM> which visibly obscures sensors <NUM>, <NUM>, but enables transmission of energy to and from the sensors/transmitters/receivers. Alternatively, lens <NUM> can be transparent, or can be transparent in a small location, for example to enable a visible light camera to obtain images. A sensor board <NUM> can be located under light cover <NUM>, within fan body <NUM>, or within canopy 320D.

Devices of the disclosure equipped with sensing units <NUM> can form part of a "smart home" architecture and operation, such as are made by GE and other companies. Accordingly, board <NUM> can be provided with electronic circuitry, including an electronic processor, memory, storage, and other components which can enable programming and remote operation associated with such a function. Remote operation can include a central programming or control program which controls the functioning of a device of the disclosure. This can include, for example, control from a website, or control from an app executing upon a smartphone or tablet. Alternatively, a handheld TV/DVR style remote control device can be used.

Devices of the disclosure can include one more sensors which can function as any or all of intelligent thermostats, intelligent hazard-detection unit, intelligent entryway-interface device, smart switch, including smart wall-like switches, smart utilities interface or interface to other service, such as smart wall-plug interface, and a wide variety of intelligent, multi-sensing, network-connected appliances, including refrigerators, televisions, washers, dryers, lights, audio systems, intercom systems, mechanical actuators, wall air conditioners, pool-heating units, irrigation systems, and many other types of intelligent appliances and systems.

Devices of the disclosure can include one or more different types of sensors, one or more controllers and/or actuators, and one or more communications interfaces that connect the smart-home devices to other smart-home devices, routers, bridges, and hubs within a local smart-home environment, various different types of local computer systems, and to the Internet, through which a smart-home device may communicate with cloud-computing servers and other remote computing systems. Data communications can be carried out by sensors <NUM>, <NUM> and board <NUM> using any of a large variety of different types of communications media and protocols, including wireless protocols, such as Wi-Fi, ZigBee, 6LoWPAN, various types of wired protocols, including CAT6 Ethernet, HomePlug, and other such wired protocols, and various other types of communications protocols and technologies. Devices of the disclosure can integrate with each other, or with previously known so-called 'smart-home' devices, and may themselves operate as intermediate communications devices, such as repeaters, for smart-home devices and other devices of the disclosure. A smart-home environment including devices of the disclosure can additionally include a variety of different types of legacy appliances and devices which lack communications interfaces and processor-based controllers.

Claim 1:
A device (<NUM>, <NUM>) for connecting an electrical fixture with electrical power supply wiring, and for mounting the fixture on a support, comprising:
a socket (<NUM>, <NUM>) including a socket body having at least one internal cavity therein;
an electrically conductive contact terminal disposed within the cavity for establishing an electrical connection between the electrical power supply wiring and the socket (<NUM>, <NUM>);
a plug (<NUM>, <NUM>) rigidly fixed to the fixture and insertable into the socket (<NUM>, <NUM>), the plug (<NUM>, <NUM>) having at least one male connector electrically connected to the fixture and engageable with the contact terminal within the socket to establish a circuit between the electrical fixture (<NUM>) and the electrical power supply wiring, wherein the plug (<NUM>, <NUM>) has a plurality of teeth (<NUM>) and the socket (<NUM>, <NUM>) has a plurality of teeth (<NUM>), the plurality of teeth (<NUM>) of the plug (<NUM>, <NUM>) engaging with the plurality of teeth (<NUM>) of the socket (<NUM>, <NUM>) to limit relative rotational movement of the plug (<NUM>, <NUM>) and socket (<NUM>, <NUM>),
a releasable latch carried on the combination of the plug (<NUM>, <NUM>) and the socket (<NUM>, <NUM>) for releasably mounting the fixture on the support; and
a unit (<NUM>), the unit electrically coupled to at least one of the plug (<NUM>, <NUM>) and socket (<NUM>, <NUM>), including a receiver sensor (<NUM>) for wirelessly receiving a signal,
characterized in that the plurality of teeth (<NUM>) of the plug (<NUM>, <NUM>) is located on a circumference of the plug (<NUM>, <NUM>) and the plurality of teeth (<NUM>) of the socket (<NUM>, <NUM>) is located on a circumference of the socket (<NUM>, <NUM>); and
the unit is a sensing unit (<NUM>) further including an environmental sensor for determining an environmental condition and including a transmitter sensor (<NUM>) for wirelessly communicating a sensed condition from the environmental sensor.