Electrical connector assembly and furniture piece

Abstract

The invention discloses an electrical connector assembly applied to a furniture piece. The furniture piece comprises a first shell and a power line. The first shell is provided with a groove. The power line is provided with a first end, the power line can be switched between a contraction state and an extension state, and the first end of the power line is connected with a first electrical connector. In the contraction state, at least one part of the first electrical connector is located in the groove; and in the extending state, the first end of the power line can be exposed out of the groove. The invention further relates to a furniture piece with the electrical connector assembly. The electrical connector assembly disclosed by the invention is suitable for various kinds of furniture, is simple and convenient to install, and is beneficial to maintaining the beautiful and tidy surface of the furniture and giving visual attraction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the field of furniture pieces, and in particular to an electrical connector assembly and a furniture piece. Background Art

[0002] Under normal circumstances, when a user is in bed (or generally sitting, located or at another piece of furniture), in order to provide a power interface and / or charge an electronic device (including but not limited to a smartphone, tablet, laptop or portable computer, Bluetooth device or other electronic device), the user needs to find a standard power source, such as a wall socket, near the furniture piece to connect a power cord or power cable between the furniture piece and the power source. For the sake of simplicity, the "charging" or "charger" mentioned in this disclosure should be understood to include accessories such as power cords.

[0003] In addition to the need to locate a power source close enough to a piece of furniture so that the power cord can be easily and safely connected to the piece of furniture, having one or more power cords run across the floor or other space to connect to the piece of furniture can reduce the cleanliness and organization of the space and increase the risk of tripping. Furthermore, using a bedside power source, for example, requires the user to plug one or more additional components into the power source, which is typically a standard wall outlet near the bed and may already contain several electrical connections for, for example, lamps, alarm clocks, audio equipment, etc. If the power source is located next to or behind the piece of furniture, access to the power source may be quite inconvenient, and if the user requires multiple types of connections, there is a risk of overloading the wall outlet and tangling the cords, which is not only potentially dangerous but also unsightly.

[0004] In addition, when the regular charging port is not in use, it must be properly stored to avoid cluttering the charging components, especially when multiple types of charging interfaces are required in the same location. Users may also need to "find a socket" for a specific device and equip it with appropriate charging components.

[0005] Therefore, there is a need for a power cord solution that is accessible from the furniture piece, is convenient to use, can be easily and efficiently stored, and has minimal impact on the aesthetics of the furniture piece. Summary of the invention

[0006] The embodiment of the present application provides an electrical connector assembly compatible with a furniture piece, wherein the furniture piece includes a first housing and a power cord. The first housing is provided with a groove. The power cord has a first end, and the power cord can be switched between a retracted state and an extended state, wherein the first end of the power cord is connected to a first electrical connector. In the retracted state, at least a portion of the first electrical connector is located in the groove; and in the extended state, the first end of the power cord is at least partially exposed outside the groove.

[0007] In one embodiment, the first shell includes: an outer surface, an inner edge is provided on the outer surface, and the inner edge surrounds the opening of the groove; a groove surface, the groove surface is offset from the outer surface along a preset first direction; and a groove wall, the groove wall extends between the inner edge and the groove surface; the groove is defined by the groove surface and the groove wall.

[0008] In one embodiment, the first housing further comprises a second electrical connector, and a user directly connects the second electrical connector through the outer surface.

[0009] In one embodiment, the first housing further comprises a third electrical connector, and a user directly connects the third electrical connector through the outer surface.

[0010] In one embodiment, the outer surface includes an outer surface first end and an outer surface second end; the inner edge includes an inner edge first end and an inner edge second end opposite thereto; the second electrical connector is located in the space between the inner edge first end and the outer surface first end; the third electrical connector is located in the area between the inner edge second end and the outer surface second end.

[0011] In one embodiment, it further comprises a power cord opening, which is opened on the surface of the groove; the power cord passes through the power cord opening.

[0012] In one embodiment, it further comprises a second shell matched with the first shell, the second shell has a closed internal space; the internal space at least accommodates a part of the power cord.

[0013] In one embodiment, the second housing comprises a furniture coupler for connecting to a piece of furniture.

[0014] In one embodiment, the device further comprises a cord reel built into the second housing, wherein the cord reel is used to store the power cord into the enclosed space.

[0015] In one embodiment, a positioning device is further included, and the positioning device is located in the groove. The positioning device is used to place the first electrical connector in the groove in a preset direction.

[0016] In one embodiment, the first end of the power cord is magnetically connected to the first shell.

[0017] In one embodiment, the first housing is provided with a light source, and the light source is configured to light up when the extension and retraction state of the power cord changes.

[0018] In one embodiment, the first housing is further provided with a light source, and the light source emits light when the device establishes an electrical connection with the first electrical connector.

[0019] In one embodiment, a cover plate is further included, and the cover plate is used to connect with the first shell and shield the outer surface.

[0020] In one embodiment, a power connector is further included, and the connector is used to connect to a power source and provide power.

[0021] In one embodiment, the device further comprises a circuit board, which receives electrical energy from the power connector and transmits the electrical energy to the first electrical connector.

[0022] On the other hand, an embodiment of the present application also provides a furniture piece, which includes: a power supply, a furniture piece surface and an electrical connector assembly, wherein the electrical connector assembly includes: a first shell, the first shell having a groove; a power cord, the power cord having a first end, and the power cord can be switched between a retracted state and an extended state; wherein the first end of the power cord is connected to a first electrical connector; in the retracted state, at least a portion of the first electrical connector is located in the groove; and in the extended state, the first end of the power cord can be exposed outside the groove.

[0023] In one embodiment, the first shell includes: an outer surface, an inner edge is provided on the outer surface, and the inner edge surrounds the opening of the groove; a groove surface, the groove surface is offset from the outer surface along a preset first direction; and a groove wall, the groove wall extends between the inner edge and the groove surface; the groove is defined by the groove surface and the groove wall.

[0024] In one embodiment, a cover plate is further included, and the cover plate is used to connect with the first shell and shield the outer surface.

[0025] In one embodiment, the following components are also included: a second shell that cooperates with the first shell, the second shell has an internal space; the internal space at least accommodates a portion of the power cord; and a cord reel is disposed in the second shell, the cord reel is used to store the power cord into the internal space.

[0026] The electrical connector assembly disclosed in the present application is suitable for various types of furniture, is easy to install, helps to maintain the appearance and cleanliness of the furniture surface and imparts visual appeal. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] The technical solution and beneficial effects of the present application will be made apparent by describing in detail the specific implementation methods of the present application in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0028] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a furniture piece equipped with an electrical connector assembly according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0029] Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a furniture piece having an electrical connector assembly according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0030] Figure 3A is an exploded view of an electrical connector assembly shown according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0031] Figure 3B is a partial cross-sectional view of an electrical connector assembly according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0032] Figure 4 is a perspective view of a first housing according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0033] Figure 5 is a partial cross-sectional view of an electrical connector assembly according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0034] Figure 6 is a partial cross-sectional view of an electrical connector assembly according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0035] Figure 7 is a perspective view of a second housing according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0036] Figure 8 is a perspective view of a cover plate shown according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0037] Fig. 9 is an exploded view of an electrical connector assembly shown according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0038] Fig.10 is a top, right side, front perspective view of an electrical connector assembly shown in accordance with an exemplary embodiment;

[0039] Fig.11 is a bottom, left side, front perspective view of an electrical connector assembly shown in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0040] Please refer to the drawings, where the same component symbols represent the same components. The principle of the present application is illustrated by implementing it in an appropriate computing environment. The following description is based on the illustrated specific embodiments of the present application, which should not be considered as limiting other specific embodiments of the present application that are not described in detail herein.

[0041] In the present disclosure, terms such as “device,” “system,” and “method” may be used alone or in combination, and their application is not limited to the disclosed components, groups, layouts, steps, functions, or processes.

[0042] Figure 1 and Figure 2 An exemplary embodiment of a furniture piece 102 is shown with an electrical connector assembly 106. The furniture piece 102 may include a furniture piece surface 104, wherein the furniture piece surface 104 embeds the electrical connector assembly 106. In addition, the furniture piece 102 also includes a power source 110 electrically connected to the electrical connector assembly 106 via a wire 112.

[0043] In an exemplary embodiment, the power supply 110 can take the form of a wired power plug that can be connected to a standard wall socket. Alternatively, the power supply 110 can also be configured as a power box that is connected to a wall socket via a power cord or other suitable connection method.

[0044] In another embodiment, the power source 110 can be a power cord extending from the electrical connector assembly 106 itself, so as to be directly connected to a socket without obtaining power through the furniture piece 102. Such a design can enable the electrical connector assembly 106 to be retrofitted to an existing furniture piece 102 that is not equipped with a power source.

[0045] Specifically, the electrical connector assembly 106 may include one or more housings, for example, the one or more housings constitute a portion of the bottom of the electrical connector assembly 106. According to the present disclosure, a housing is generally configured as a structural part or unit that positions or receives other components inside the assembly.

[0046] See also Figure 1 and Figure 2 , the furniture piece 102 is shown as a bed with a headboard 114, but it should be noted that the scope of application of the present disclosure is not limited to bed furniture. For example, in another embodiment, the furniture piece 102 can also be a chair, a sofa, a table, a dresser, or any other type of furniture that meets the description of the present disclosure. In addition, Figure 1 and Figure 2 The furniture piece surface 104 shown in the figure is a vertical surface, but it should be clear that the present disclosure is not limited to the application of vertical surfaces, and the electrical connector assembly 106 is also applicable to other types of surfaces, such as horizontal surfaces or inclined surfaces.

[0047] The visible portion 108 of the electrical connector assembly 106 is elegantly and user-accessibly disposed on the furniture piece surface 104. The electrical connector assembly 106 is mounted in a manner that enables at least a portion of the electrical connector assembly 106 to be embedded in the furniture piece surface 104 and to be disposed within the interior space 202 of the furniture piece 102, such as an interior frame (not shown) or other component of the furniture piece 102.

[0048] Please refer to Figure 3AThe electrical connector assembly 106 includes a first housing 302, a second housing 304, and a cover 306. The second housing 304 further integrates a cord reel 310 and a built-in circuit board 312, that is, the cord reel 310 and the built-in circuit board 312 are disposed in the second housing 304. In one embodiment, the cord reel 310 is used to store at least a portion of the length of the power cord 308.

[0049] In one embodiment, the power cord 308 is equipped with a first electrical connector 314 at one end thereof, that is, the first end 316 of the power cord 308 is equipped with the first electrical connector 314. Further, the first electrical connector 314 can be adapted to various electronic devices, and specific types include but are not limited to USB-A, USB-B, USB-C, micro-USB, and Lightning connectors. In addition, the first end 316 of the power cord 308 can be configured with multiple types of electrical connectors 314 to meet the needs of different devices.

[0050] In one embodiment, the first shell 302 and the second shell 304 may be formed as an integral unit (eg, by injection molding), or may be composed of a plurality of separate components that can be fixed to or removed from each other, and the sizes and shapes of these components may be different.

[0051] exist Figure 3A In the embodiment, the first housing 302 is shown as a single component, that is, the first housing 302 is an integrally formed design. The second housing 304 is composed of two independent components. It should be noted that the implementation of the present disclosure is not limited to this design. For example, the first housing 302 may be composed of a plurality of components, and the second housing 304 may also be formed by an integrally formed process.

[0052] Please also see Figure 5 and Figure 6 The power cord 308 can be flexibly switched between a retracted state and an extended state. When in the retracted state, the main body of the power cord 308 is stored in the second housing 304; while in the extended state, the power cord 308 extends from the inside of the electrical connector assembly 106 to the outside thereof. The cord reel 310 is used to facilitate the user to control the power cord 308 to extend from the electrical connector assembly 106 and enter the extended state. At the same time, using the cord reel 310, the user can also retract the power cord 308 from the extended state to the retracted state.

[0053] In one embodiment, the cord reel 310 may be integrated with a spring-loaded and / or ratchet mechanism (not shown), the functions of which include controlling the extension of the power cord 308, stopping its further extension, locking it in a preset position, and / or automatically retracting it when the power cord 308 is pulled. For example, when the user continuously and steadily applies pulling force, the cord reel 310 allows the power cord 308 to extend. Once the user stops applying pulling force, the cord reel 310 will firmly lock the power cord 308 in the current position. When the user applies a short-term pulling force to the power cord 308 again, the cord reel 310 will retract it to the retracted state.

[0054] In one embodiment, the electrical connector assembly 106 is equipped with a power input connector 318, which is used to connect to a power supply 110 built into the furniture piece 102 (or an independent power supply 110 as an alternative), thereby providing the required power to the power cord 308 and the first electrical connector 314.

[0055] In an exemplary embodiment, the power input connector 318 extends from the second housing 304 and is connected to the power source 110 through the wire 112 or the like. In addition, the power input connector 318 can also exchange electrical signals with the circuit board 312, and the circuit board 312 integrates corresponding components for performing necessary voltage and / or current adjustments on the power before transmitting the power to the power line 308 and the first electrical connector 314.

[0056] refer to Figure 3A , the power input connector 318 can extend into the interior of the second housing 304 and be routed around one or more support drums 320 to be electrically connected to the circuit board power input 322 on the circuit board 312. The support drums 320 can stabilize the power input connector 318 to ensure that the connector does not disconnect from the circuit board power input 322 when subjected to tension. In addition, the support drums 320 also provide auxiliary support to prevent damage to the power input connector 318 due to tension and / or movement, such as preventing it from being worn at the edge of the second housing 304 or the furniture piece 102.

[0057] See also Figure 4 In one embodiment, the first shell 302 includes an outer surface 402. The outer surface 402 has an inner edge 404, and the inner edge 404 defines the position of the groove opening 420, that is, the inner edge 404 surrounds and forms the groove opening 420. It should be noted that, Figure 4The dashed line in the figure is not part of the electrical connector assembly 106, but is used to roughly indicate the location of the groove opening 420; the dashed line should not constitute any limitation on the definition or scope of the groove opening 420. In one embodiment, in order to reduce possible damage to the power cord 308, the inner edge 404 can be beveled or rounded.

[0058] Further, the first housing 302 further includes a groove surface 406, a groove wall 408, and a groove 410. The groove surface 406 is offset from the outer surface 402 along a first direction, wherein the first direction can be understood as a direction that is at a non-zero angle with the outer surface 402. In one embodiment, the first direction is a direction perpendicular to the outer surface 402. In an exemplary embodiment, the outer surface 402 can be considered to be substantially parallel to the groove surface 406, but it should be noted that the content of the present disclosure is not limited to this case.

[0059] The groove wall 408 is located between the outer surface 402 and the groove surface 406. In the exemplary embodiment, the groove surface 406 can be considered to be substantially perpendicular to the outer surface 402 and itself, but it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to this configuration.

[0060] The groove 410 is defined by the groove surface 406 and the groove wall 408. For example, in some embodiments, the groove 410 is designed as a bowl-shaped structure, and its groove surface 406 presents a curved or arc-shaped form to form the bottom of the bowl. Correspondingly, the groove wall 408 extends from the groove surface 406 to the outer surface 402 in a curved or arc-shaped structure.

[0061] In one embodiment, the groove surface 406 is provided with a power cord opening 412, so that the power cord 308 can extend from the interior of the second housing 304, through the power cord opening 412, and further extend into the groove 410 of the first housing 302. In the retracted state, the first electrical connector 314 is at least partially placed in the groove 410. Depending on the size of the first electrical connector 314, when it is in the retracted state, at least a portion of the first electrical connector 314 may be exposed from the groove 410, and the power cord 308 may also slightly extend beyond the range of the groove 410. The area of ​​the groove surface 406 adjacent to the power cord opening 412 is specifically designed to bend or arc toward the interior of the groove 410, thereby forming a positioning portion 422. The size of the positioning portion 422 is precisely calculated to ensure that the first electrical connector 314 passing through the power cord opening 412 can be guided into the groove 410 at a predetermined angle.

[0062] From a certain perspective, when the power cord 308 is in the retracted state, the predetermined angle not only makes the position of the first electrical connector 314 in the groove 410 look more beautiful, but also facilitates the user to perform the connection operation. In addition, when the power cord 308 switches between the retracted and extended states, the design of the groove opening 420 helps the power cord 308 to smoothly pass through the power cord opening 412 at a desired angle. At the same time, the groove opening 420 also serves as a stopper to prevent the first electrical connector 314 from accidentally retracting through the power cord opening 412.

[0063] In an exemplary embodiment, at least one of the first electrical connector 314 and the first housing 302 includes a magnet, while the other includes metal or other magnetizable material. This design allows the first electrical connector 314 to be magnetically attached to the surface of the first housing 302, thereby stably maintaining the first electrical connector 314 in a convenient position when not in use.

[0064] The first housing 302 is also equipped with a second electrical connector 414 and a third electrical connector 416, both of which are accessible through the outer surface 402. The second electrical connector 414 and the third electrical connector 416 can be any type of connector as long as they can be connected to the electronic device through a known and / or standard power cord, and these power cord types include but are not limited to USB-A, USB-B, USB-C, micro USB, and Lightning, etc.

[0065] In an exemplary embodiment, the second electrical connector 414 and the third electrical connector 416 can be designed as the same type of connector. Alternatively, the second electrical connector 414 and the third electrical connector 416 can also be of different connector types as required. In an exemplary embodiment, the first electrical connector 314 is designed as a male connector for connecting to an electronic device, while the second electrical connector 414 and the third electrical connector 416 are female connectors for receiving the male portion of the device power cord. Figure 4 In the embodiment, the second electrical connector 414 and the third electrical connector 416 are both disposed on the same side of the first housing 302, but it should be noted that the implementation of the present disclosure is not limited to this positioning method of the second electrical connector 414 and the third electrical connector 416 (see Figure 5 and Figure 6 example), and does not limit the specific number of connectors.

[0066] The first housing 302 may also include one or more screw holes 418. The design of these screw holes 418 allows the first housing 302 to be securely mounted on the furniture piece 102 by using screws or other similar connecting hardware, so that the electrical connector assembly 106 and the first housing 302 can adapt to a variety of mounting orientations, for example, according to an exemplary embodiment, they can be mounted horizontally on the headboard.

[0067] Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of another exemplary embodiment of the electrical connector assembly 106 is shown, in which the positions of the electrical connector 414 and the third electrical connector 416 are different. The inner edge 404 is composed of an inner edge first end 502 and an inner edge second end 504, and the outer surface includes an outer surface first end 506 and an outer surface second end 508. The second electrical connector 414 is located between the inner edge first end 502 and the outer surface first end 506, and the third electrical connector 416 is located between the inner edge second end 504 and the outer surface second end 508. It can be understood that in other embodiments, the second electrical connector 414 can be disposed at the bottom or side of the groove 410, and the third electrical connector 416 can be disposed at the bottom or side of the groove 410.

[0068] Please also see Figure 4 and Figure 5 , the first housing 302 includes a locator 512 disposed in the groove 410. The locator 512 locates the first electrical connector 314 in a predetermined direction when the first electrical connector 314 is in the retracted state. For example, the locator 512 can stabilize the first electrical connector 314 at a predetermined angle relative to the groove surface 406, thereby facilitating a user to grasp the first electrical connector 314. The locator 512 is located on the groove surface 406 to cover the power cord opening 412. In some embodiments, the portion of the groove surface 406 adjacent to the power cord opening 412 is designed to be curved or arcuate toward the inside of the groove 410.

[0069] like Figure 5 As shown, the second housing 304 defines an internal space 510. At least a portion of the power cord 308 may be accommodated within the internal space 510. In one embodiment, a cord reel 310 may be located in the internal space 510 to facilitate retrieving and winding the power cord 308 when not in use.

[0070] In one embodiment, the electrical connector assembly may include a light source 514, which may receive electrical energy by being electrically connected to the circuit board 312, and the circuit board 312 may also include components such as a processor and / or a logic unit to control the operation of the circuit board 312 and its connected components.

[0071] For example, the circuit board 312 is integrated with or electrically connected to a sensor that is configured to detect movement of the power cord 308, such as when a user pulls out the power cord 308. The circuit board 312 can be configured to illuminate the light source 514 after detecting movement of the power cord 308, thereby providing lighting for a certain period of time for the surrounding environment. Such a design can help users connect electronic devices to the first electrical connector 314 in an otherwise dim indoor environment.

[0072] In addition, the circuit board 312 can also be configured to control the light source 514, and activate the light source 514 when the device is electrically connected to the first electrical connector 314. This lighting method can serve as a confirmation signal that the device has been successfully electrically connected and is in a correct charging state. Additional light sources 514 can be added inside the groove 410 or on the outer surface 402 to indicate the connection and / or charging status through the second electrical connector 414 and / or the third electrical connector 416. The light source 514 and the first housing 302 can be configured to illuminate the second electrical connector 414 and / or the third electrical connector 416, so that the user can easily find the second electrical connector 414 and the third electrical connector 416 in a dark environment.

[0073] like Figure 5 As shown, one or more light sources 514 are installed inside the groove 410. The light source 514 can be located on the groove surface 406 or the groove wall 408, or can be selectively arranged on the outer surface 402 of the first shell 302. The number, type and position layout of the light sources are not limited to those shown in this example or any other specific embodiment. For example, the light source 514 can be one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs), LED light strings, or any other known light sources that meet the content of the present disclosure.

[0074] The second housing 304 may also be provided with a retainer 516 fixed to its surface. After the electrical connector assembly 106 is assembled and embedded in the furniture piece 102, the retainer 516 helps the power input connector 318 to be firmly fixed in the corresponding position. Fig.11 The retainer 516 may be secured to the second housing 304 by one or more retaining screws 1102, or may be secured by a resilient tab, a snap-on connector, or a similar structure.

[0075] Please read further Figure 5 In the retracted state, at least a portion of the first electrical connector 314 is located in the groove 410. Figure 5 The first electrical connector 314 is completely placed in the groove 410. It should be noted that the design size of the first electrical connector 314 may allow it to be partially exposed from the groove 410 when it is retracted.

[0076] See also Figure 6In the extended state, the user can pull the first electrical connector 314 and the power cord 308 to a position where the first electrical connector 314 can be connected to the device. It should be noted that the extension length of the power cord 308 is not limited to Figure 6 As shown in the length, the power cord 308 may be long enough to extend a greater distance from the electrical connector assembly 106, thereby providing a user with more flexibility when using the power cord 308.

[0077] See also Figure 7 In one embodiment, the second housing 304 may include one or more housing connectors, which are used to connect the second housing 304 to the first housing 302. Specifically, one or more connecting pieces 702 are provided on the edge 704 of the second housing 304, and these connecting pieces 702 match and connect with the corresponding structures on the first housing 302. In addition, the second housing 304 is also equipped with one or more housing screw holes 706, so that the user can use screws or other appropriate connector hardware to firmly fix the second housing 304 on the first housing 302.

[0078] In one embodiment, the second housing 304 further includes one or more furniture couplers, which are used to mount the electrical connector assembly 106 to the furniture piece 102. For example, the second housing 304 may be equipped with one or more screws 708, which are connected to corresponding structures on the furniture piece 102. At the same time, the second housing 304 may also have one or more alignment grooves 710, which are used to match and connect with corresponding protrusions on the interior 202 of the furniture piece 102. It can be understood that in one embodiment, at least one elastic locking piece (not shown) may be installed on the second housing 304, and the at least one elastic locking piece is locked and connected to the corresponding structure on the furniture piece 102.

[0079] Understandable, although Figure 7 The furniture coupler shown in the figure is an alignment groove 710, but it should be understood that the implementation of the present disclosure is not limited to this form. For example, the outer surface 712 of the second shell 304 can also be provided with a protrusion (not shown in the figure), which can be connected with a corresponding groove in the interior 202 of the furniture piece 102.

[0080] In one embodiment, the second housing 304 does not completely isolate the internal space 510 from the external environment. For example, the second housing 304 may be provided with one or more vents 714 for discharging heat generated by the electronic components (eg, the circuit board 312) inside the second housing 304 during operation.

[0081] In addition, the second housing 304 may also be provided with a power access opening 716 to facilitate access to the power input connector 318. The power access opening 716 allows the power input connector 318 to access the internal space 510 (see Figure 5 ). It should be understood that the power input connector 318 or other connector extending from the external power source or power supply device to the internal space 510 can be connected to the circuit board 312 through the power access opening 716 according to specific configuration and application requirements, and may include the previously referenced Figure 3B The support drum 320 and other components discussed.

[0082] See also Figure 7 The ventilation opening 714 and the power access opening 716 are disposed on the bottom surface 718 of the second shell 304. However, it should be noted that the implementation of the present disclosure is not limited thereto; the ventilation opening 714 and the power access opening 716 can be disposed at any position on the second shell 304 according to the specific design of the furniture piece 102 used.

[0083] See also Figure 8 In one embodiment, the cover 306 includes a cover surface 802. The cover surface 802 includes a cover inner edge 804 defining a cover groove opening 806 to facilitate access to the groove 410 of the first housing 302. To prevent accidental damage to the power cord 308, the cover inner edge 804 can be designed to be beveled or rounded.

[0084] In one embodiment, the cover 306 further includes a second connector opening 810 and a third connector opening 808 to facilitate access to the second electrical connector 414 and the third electrical connector 416 through the cover 306. Figure 8 In the embodiment, the second connector opening 810 and the third connector opening 808 are shown adjacent to each other on the same side of the cover plate groove opening 806. However, it should be noted that the implementation of the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, in one embodiment, see Figure 5 If the second electrical connector 414 and the third electrical connector 416 are disposed on opposite sides of the groove 410 , then the second connector opening 810 and the third connector opening 808 may be disposed on opposite sides of the cover groove opening 806 .

[0085] As will be appreciated, the cover plate 306 can be coupled to the first housing 302 in any suitable manner, such as by resilient clips, tabs, snaps, grooves or protrusions, etc. To provide a clean and aesthetically pleasing appearance on the furniture piece surface 104, the cover plate 306 can be configured to cover the screw holes 418 of the first housing 302. In addition, the design of the cover plate surface 802 can match or complement the design of the furniture piece 102. For example, the cover plate surface 802 can provide the appearance of metal, wood grain, colored plastic, or patterned / colored fabric to match or complement the design and / or color of the underlying furniture piece 102 and / or the furniture piece surface 104.

[0086] See also Fig. 9 ,and Figure 3A Unlike the embodiment in which the circuit board 312 is in a vertical state (ie, substantially perpendicular to the groove surface 406 ), the circuit board 312 here is set in a horizontal state, that is, substantially parallel to the groove surface 406 between the first shell 302 and the second shell 304 .

[0087] Fig. 9 It is further disclosed that the electrical connector assembly 106 may include one or more secondary circuit boards 902 or other power connection devices configured to establish electrical communication between the circuit board 312 and the second electrical connector 414 and / or the third electrical connector 416. In certain embodiments, the power connector is capable of directly connecting and providing power to one or more independent electrical connectors.

[0088] Figure 10 to Figure 11 Additional views of an exemplary embodiment of the electrical connector assembly 106 are presented, wherein like parts are numbered similarly to those in the front view.

[0089] See also Fig.10 The first housing 302 may also be equipped with one or more connecting pieces 1002, which connect the first housing 302 to the second housing 304. Specifically, the connecting piece 1002 of the first housing 302 may be used in conjunction with the connecting piece 702 of the second housing 304 to ensure accurate alignment and secure fit between the first housing 302 and the second housing 304.

[0090] See also Fig.11 , the power input connector 318 can be constructed as a socket or interface, which is configured to receive a corresponding plug or male connector from a power line. The socket / interface of the power input connector 318 can be connected to the circuit board 312 in the above manner. This configuration can provide a safer and more reliable connection between the power input connector 318 and the power supply 110, and reduce the risk of damaging or disconnecting the power line passing through the second housing 304.

[0091] The electrical connector assembly of the present disclosure is suitable for all kinds of furniture, is easy to install, helps to maintain the aesthetic and neat appearance of the furniture surface and gives it visual appeal. It can be fixed by screws or installed by snap fit, and a smooth sleeve can be added according to actual needs to cover the position of the screws. In addition, the electrical connector assembly of the present disclosure helps to solve the problem of line confusion, thereby improving the safety and aesthetics of the space.

[0092] The electrical connector assembly and furniture pieces provided in the embodiments of the present application are introduced in detail above. Specific examples are used herein to illustrate the principles and implementation methods of the present application. The description of the above embodiments is only used to help understand the method of the present application and its core idea. At the same time, for those skilled in the art, according to the idea of ​​the present application, there will be changes in the specific implementation methods and application scope. In summary, the content of this specification should not be understood as a limitation on the present application.

Claims

1. An electrical connector assembly, comprising: A first shell, wherein the first shell is provided with a groove; a power cord having a first end, the power cord being switchable between a retracted state and an extended state; wherein the first end of the power line is connected to a first electrical connector; In the retracted state, at least a portion of the first electrical connector is located in the recess; and In the extended state, at least a portion of the first end of the power line is exposed outside the groove.

2. The electrical connector assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that The first housing comprises: An outer surface, wherein an inner edge is disposed on the outer surface and the inner edge surrounds an opening forming the groove; a groove surface, wherein the groove surface is offset from the outer surface along a preset first direction; and a groove wall, wherein the groove wall extends between the inner edge and the groove surface; The groove is defined by the groove surface and the groove wall.

3. The electrical connector assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that The first housing further comprises a second electrical connector, and a user directly connects the second electrical connector through the outer surface.

4. The electrical connector assembly according to claim 3, characterized in that The first housing further comprises a third electrical connector, and a user directly connects the third electrical connector through the outer surface.

5. The electrical connector assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that The outer surface includes an outer surface first end and an outer surface second end; The inner edge includes an inner edge first end and an inner edge second end opposite thereto; The second electrical connector is located in the space between the first end of the inner edge and the first end of the outer surface, or the second electrical connector is located at the bottom or side of the groove; The third electrical connector is located in a region between the second end of the inner edge and the second end of the outer surface, or the third connector is located at a bottom or a side of the groove.

6. The electrical connector assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that It also comprises a power cord opening, which is arranged on the surface of the groove; the power cord passes through the power cord opening.

7. The electrical connector assembly according to claim 6, characterized in that It also comprises a second shell matched with the first shell, wherein the second shell has a closed internal space; the internal space at least accommodates a part of the power line.

8. The electrical connector assembly according to claim 7, characterized in that The second housing includes a furniture coupler for connecting to a piece of furniture.

9. The electrical connector assembly according to claim 7, characterized in that: It also includes a cord reel built into the second shell, and the cord reel is used to store the power cord into the closed space.

10. The electrical connector assembly according to claim 2, wherein: It also includes a positioning device, which is located in the groove and is used to place the first electrical connector in the groove in a preset direction.

11. The electrical connector assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The first end of the power line is magnetically connected to the first shell.

12. The electrical connector assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The first housing is provided with a light source, and the light source is set to light up when the extension and retraction state of the power cord changes.

13. The electrical connector assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The first housing is also provided with a light source, and the light source emits light when the device establishes an electrical connection with the first electrical connector.

14. The electrical connector assembly according to claim 1, wherein: It also comprises a cover plate, which is used for connecting with the first shell and shielding the outer surface.

15. The electrical connector assembly according to claim 1, wherein: Also included is a power connector, which is used to electrically connect to a power source and provide power.

16. The electrical connector assembly according to claim 15, characterized in that A circuit board is also included, which receives power from the power connector and transmits the power to the first electrical connector.

17. A piece of furniture comprising: power supply; Surfaces of furniture pieces; as well as An electrical connector assembly embedded in the surface of a furniture piece, the assembly comprising: A first shell, wherein the first shell is provided with a groove; A power cord having a first end, the power cord being switchable between a retracted state and an extended state; wherein the first end of the power cord is connected to a first electrical connector; In the retracted state, at least a portion of the first electrical connector is located in the recess; and In the extended state, the first end of the power cord may be exposed outside the groove.

18. The piece of furniture according to claim 17, characterized in that The first housing comprises: An outer surface, wherein an inner edge is disposed on the outer surface and the inner edge surrounds an opening forming the groove; a groove surface, wherein the groove surface is offset from the outer surface along a preset first direction; and a groove wall, wherein the groove wall extends between the inner edge and the groove surface; The groove is defined by the groove surface and the groove wall.

19. The piece of furniture according to claim 18, characterized in that It also comprises a cover plate, which is used for connecting with the first shell and shielding the outer surface.

20. The piece of furniture according to claim 17, characterized in that The following components are also included: It also includes a second shell that matches the first shell, the second shell has an internal space; the internal space at least accommodates a portion of the power cord; and A cord reel is disposed in the second housing, and the cord reel is used to store the power cord into the internal space.

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