Sockets and Socket Control Methods

Abstract

This application relates to a socket and a socket control method, belonging to the field of electrical equipment technology. The socket includes a housing assembly, a drive assembly, and at least one power-receiving module. The housing assembly includes a panel with at least one opening. The power-receiving module is installed within the housing assembly, with at least a portion of the module protruding from a corresponding opening. The power-receiving module includes a mating surface with a pin hole. The drive assembly is connected to the corresponding power-receiving module and is used to drive the corresponding power-receiving module to rotate relative to the panel to adjust the orientation of the mating surface. Using the technical solution of this application can improve the safety of using the socket.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of electrical equipment technology, specifically to a socket and a socket control method. Background Technology

[0002] Outdoor sockets are devices used to provide power to electrical equipment in outdoor environments and are widely used in camping, charging, construction, medical rescue and other scenarios.

[0003] In related technologies, the socket side of outdoor sockets is always exposed to the air. However, outdoor sockets exposed to the elements are not only easily damaged, but also susceptible to internal damage from rain or splashes, which can lead to safety hazards or malfunction. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In view of this, embodiments of this application provide a socket that can improve the safety of using the socket.

[0005] On one hand, embodiments of this application provide a socket, the socket including a housing assembly, a drive assembly, and at least one power supply module;

[0006] The housing assembly includes a panel having at least one opening;

[0007] The power-gathering module is installed within the housing assembly, and at least a portion of the power-gathering module protrudes from the opening corresponding to the power-gathering module. The power-gathering module includes a mating surface with a pin hole.

[0008] The driving component is connected to the corresponding power-gathering module, and the driving component is used to drive the corresponding power-gathering module to rotate relative to the panel to adjust the orientation of the plug surface.

[0009] Optionally, the power-gathering module further includes a first stop, and the housing assembly further includes a second stop, wherein when the power-gathering module is rotated to the point where the first stop and the second stop abut against each other, the insertion surface is exposed from the opening.

[0010] Optionally, the power-taking module further includes a third stop, and the housing assembly further includes a fourth stop, wherein the third stop and the second stop are offset from each other in the axial direction of the rotation of the power-taking module, and the fourth stop and the first stop are offset from each other in the axial direction of the rotation of the power-taking module. When the power-taking module rotates to the point where the third stop and the fourth stop abut against each other, the insertion surface is away from the opening.

[0011] Optionally, the power supply module further includes a first sidewall and a first rotating member, the first rotating member extending from the first sidewall and rotatably connected to the drive assembly.

[0012] Optionally, the first rotating member is provided with a toothed ring, and the driving assembly includes a gear component, the toothed ring meshing with the gear component.

[0013] Optionally, the drive component includes a motor;

[0014] The socket also includes a circuit board and a controller. The controller and the motor are mounted on the circuit board and electrically connected to each other. The controller is used to control the operating state of the motor.

[0015] Optionally, the power supply module further includes a second sidewall, a second rotating member, and a power cord;

[0016] The second sidewall is opposite to the first sidewall, and the second rotating member extends from the second sidewall and is coaxially arranged with the first rotating member;

[0017] The second rotating component has an axially extending wire channel through which the power line passes and connects to the circuit board.

[0018] Optionally, the socket further includes a relay mounted on the circuit board. The relay is electrically connected to the power line and the controller, respectively, and the controller is used to control the on / off state of the relay.

[0019] Optionally, the housing assembly has a first receiving cavity and at least one second receiving cavity separated from the first receiving cavity, the second receiving cavity communicating with the opening corresponding to the second receiving cavity;

[0020] The circuit board is located within the first receiving cavity;

[0021] The power-taking module is located in the second receiving cavity corresponding to the power-taking module. The second receiving cavity has a first mounting hole, and the first rotating member passes through the first mounting hole into the first receiving cavity.

[0022] Optionally, the power extraction module is fitted with the edge of the opening with a clearance.

[0023] The wall of the second receiving cavity has a drain hole that leads to the outside of the socket.

[0024] Optionally, the housing assembly further includes a back plate connected to a first support member extending toward the panel;

[0025] The panel is circumferentially connected to a second support member, which extends toward the back panel.

[0026] The end face of the first support member abuts against the end face of the second support member to form the second receiving cavity.

[0027] Optionally, the first support member has a first notch, the second support member has a second notch, the first notch and the second notch are opposite each other, and the first notch and the second notch together form the first mounting hole.

[0028] On the other hand, embodiments of this application also provide a socket control method, which is used to control a socket as described in any of the above claims, the socket control method comprising:

[0029] Receive the first rotation command;

[0030] Based on the first rotation command, the drive component is controlled to drive the power-gathering module to rotate, so that the connector surface of the power-gathering module is exposed in the corresponding opening.

[0031] Optionally, controlling the drive component to drive the power-taking module to rotate includes:

[0032] Select at least one target power supply module from the power supply modules that are in a non-powered state;

[0033] The drive component corresponding to the target power supply module is controlled to drive the target power supply module to rotate.

[0034] Optionally, the socket control method further includes:

[0035] When the connector of the power-taking module is exposed in the opening, and a preset condition is detected, the drive assembly is controlled to drive the power-taking module to rotate so that the connector is not exposed in the opening.

[0036] Optionally, the preset conditions include any one of the following:

[0037] The second rotation command is received and the pin hole of the power supply module is not inserted;

[0038] The power supply module's pin hole was not inserted within a preset time; and,

[0039] Water intrusion was detected and the pin hole of the power supply module was not inserted.

[0040] The socket provided in this application embodiment includes a housing assembly, a drive assembly, and at least one power-receiving module. The power-receiving module is installed inside the housing assembly. Since the drive assembly can drive the corresponding power-receiving module to rotate relative to the panel of the housing assembly, and at least a portion of the power-receiving module is exposed from an opening corresponding to the power-receiving module, when the electrical device needs power, the drive assembly can be used to drive the corresponding power-receiving module to rotate, so that the plug surface of the power-receiving module with the pin hole is exposed from the corresponding opening, thereby facilitating the insertion of the electrical device's plug into the pin hole to obtain power. When the electrical device has finished using power, the drive assembly can be used to drive the corresponding power-receiving module to rotate, so that the pin hole of the power-receiving module is not exposed from the opening, thereby preventing the pin hole from being exposed to the outside and damaged or rained on, thus protecting the power-receiving module. As can be seen from the above, the socket in this embodiment can flexibly adjust the orientation of the plug surface of the power supply module by using the driving component. When the power supply module is not in use, the plug hole can be adjusted to a position where it is not exposed from the opening, thereby preventing water or sand and other impurities from entering the plug hole from the outside of the socket, thus preventing damage to the power supply module and improving the safety of using the socket. Attached Figure Description

[0041] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0042] Figure 1 This application provides a schematic diagram of the structure of a socket and an exploded view of the socket according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0043] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view and a partial structural diagram of a socket provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0044] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a socket provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0045] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a socket provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0046] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a socket provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0047] Figure 6 This is a flowchart of a socket control method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0048] Figure 7 This is a flowchart of another socket control method provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0049] Figure label:

[0050] 100. Housing assembly; 110. Panel; 120. Second stop; 130. Fourth stop; 140. First receiving cavity; 150. Second receiving cavity; 160. Back plate; 170. Cover; 111. Opening; 112. Second support; 113. Second notch; 151. First mounting hole; 152. Drain hole; 153. Bottom wall; 161. First support; 162. First notch; 163. Third notch; 171. First baffle; 172. Second baffle; 173. Third baffle;

[0051] 200. Drive assembly; 210. Gear components; 220. Motor;

[0052] 300 Power supply module; 310 Connecting surface; 320 First stop; 330 Third stop; 340 First sidewall; 350 First rotating component; 360 Second sidewall; 370 Second rotating component; 380 Power cord; 371 Wire channel; 311 Pin hole; 351 Gear ring;

[0053] 400. Circuit board;

[0054] 500, Controller;

[0055] 600. Relay.

[0056] The accompanying drawings have illustrated specific embodiments of this application, which will be described in more detail below. These drawings and descriptions are not intended to limit the scope of the concept in any way, but rather to illustrate the concept of this application to those skilled in the art through reference to specific embodiments. Detailed Implementation

[0057] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this disclosure clearer, the embodiments of this disclosure will be described in further detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0058] The terminology used in the embodiments of this disclosure is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit the disclosure. Unless otherwise defined, the technical or scientific terms used herein should be understood in their ordinary sense by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. The terms “first,” “second,” “third,” and similar terms used in this disclosure and the claims do not indicate any order, quantity, or importance, but are merely used to distinguish different components. Similarly, the terms “a” or “one,” and similar terms do not indicate a quantity limitation, but rather indicate the presence of at least one. The terms “comprising,” “including,” and similar terms mean that the elements or objects preceding “comprising,” encompass the elements or objects listed following “comprising,” and their equivalents, but do not exclude other elements or objects. The terms “connected,” “linked,” and similar terms are not limited to physical or mechanical connections, but can include electrical connections, whether direct or indirect. The terms “upper,” “lower,” “left,” and “right,” etc., are used only to indicate relative positional relationships, and these relative positional relationships may change accordingly when the absolute position of the described object changes.

[0059] like Figure 1 As shown, this application embodiment provides a socket, which can be an outdoor socket or an indoor socket. The socket includes a housing assembly 100, a drive assembly 200, and at least one power-receiving module 300. The housing assembly 100 includes a panel 110 having at least one opening 111. The power-receiving module 300 is mounted within the housing assembly 100, and at least a portion of the power-receiving module 300 protrudes from the opening 111 corresponding to the power-receiving module 300. It should be noted that at least a portion of the power-receiving module 300 protruding from the opening 111 corresponding to the power-receiving module 300 means that the surface of the power-receiving module 300 facing the opening 111 can be flush with, protrude from, or be located inside the opening 111. In some embodiments, the orthographic projection of the power-receiving module 300 on the panel 110 at least partially coincides with the corresponding opening 111. The power-receiving module 300 includes a mating surface 310 having a pin hole 311. The drive assembly 200 is connected to the corresponding power-gathering module 300. The drive assembly 200 is used to drive the corresponding power-gathering module 300 to rotate relative to the panel 110, so as to adjust the orientation of the plug surface 310. It can be understood that the plug of the electrical device can be inserted into the power-gathering module 300 through the pin hole 311 and connected to the socket inside the power-gathering module 300 to obtain power.

[0060] Using the socket provided in this application embodiment, when an electrical device needs power, the driving component 200 can drive the corresponding power-collecting module 300 to rotate, so that the plug surface 310 with the pin hole 311 of the power-collecting module 300 is exposed from the corresponding opening 111, thereby facilitating the insertion of the electrical device's plug into the pin hole 311 to collect power. When the electrical device has finished using power, the driving component 200 can drive the corresponding power-collecting module 300 to rotate, so that the pin hole 311 of the power-collecting module 300 is not exposed from the opening 111, thereby preventing the pin hole 311 from being exposed to the outside and damaged or rained on, thus protecting the power-collecting module 300. As can be seen from the above, the socket in this embodiment can flexibly adjust the orientation of the plug surface 310 of the power supply module 300 by using the drive component 200. When the power supply module 300 is not in use, the pin hole 311 can be adjusted to a position where it is not exposed in the opening 111, thereby preventing water or sand and other impurities from entering the pin hole 311 of the plug surface 310, thus preventing damage to the power supply module 300 and improving the safety of using the socket.

[0061] The following is in conjunction with the appendix Figures 1 to 5 The details and functions of the sockets provided in the embodiments of this application will be described in more specific and detailed manner.

[0062] like Figure 2 As shown, in some embodiments, the power-taking module 300 further includes a first stop 320, and the housing assembly 100 further includes a second stop 120. When the power-taking module 300 rotates until the first stop 320 and the second stop 120 abut against each other, the connector surface 310 is exposed from the opening 111. It can be understood that when the electrical device needs power, the cooperation of the first stop 320 and the second stop 120 can limit the rotational stroke of the power-taking module 300, preventing excessive rotation and ensuring that the connector surface 310 is exposed from the opening 111.

[0063] like Figure 2 As shown, in some embodiments, when the plug surface 310 protrudes from the opening 111, the plug surface 310 is flush with the panel 110. This allows the plug of the electrical device to be inserted in a direction perpendicular to the plug surface 310, facilitating plug-in and plug-out operations for the user. Simultaneously, the flush alignment of the plug surface 310 with the panel 110 also improves the aesthetics of the socket.

[0064] like Figure 2As shown, in some embodiments, the power-taking module 300 further includes a third stop 330, and the housing assembly 100 further includes a fourth stop 130. The third stop 330 and the second stop 120 are offset from each other along the axial direction of rotation of the power-taking module 300. That is, the orthographic projections of the third stop 330 and the second stop 120 on a plane parallel to the axial direction of rotation of the power-taking module 300 and perpendicular to the surface of the panel 110 with the opening 111 do not coincide. Similarly, the fourth stop 130 and the first stop 320 are offset from each other along the axial direction of rotation of the power-taking module 300. When the power-taking module 300 rotates to the point where the third stop 330 and the fourth stop 130 abut against each other, the insertion surface 310 moves away from the opening 111. It is understandable that after the power-consuming equipment has finished drawing power, the rotation stroke of the power-drawing module 300 can be limited by the cooperation of the third stop 330 and the fourth stop 130, so as to prevent the power-drawing module 300 from rotating excessively, that is, to ensure that the plug-in surface 310 can move away from the outlet 111.

[0065] like Figure 2 As shown, in some embodiments, when the plug surface 310 faces away from the opening 111, the plug surface 310 is parallel to the panel 110. This arrangement ensures that when the power module 300 does not require external power supply, the plug surface 310 can be better concealed within the housing assembly 100. This provides better protection for the pin hole 311 of the plug surface 310, preventing the pin hole 311 from being exposed to the outside and damaged or rained on, thus improving the safety of using the socket.

[0066] Combination Figure 1 and Figure 3 As shown, in some embodiments, the power-harvesting module 300 further includes a first sidewall 340 and a first rotating member 350. The first rotating member 350 extends from the first sidewall 340 and is rotatably connected to the drive assembly 200. Thus, when the drive assembly 200 rotates, it can drive the first rotating member 350 to rotate, and the first rotating member 350 can drive the power-harvesting module 300 to rotate synchronously via the first sidewall 340. It should be noted that one end of the first rotating member 350 is fixedly connected to the first sidewall 340, and the other end extends away from the first sidewall 340.

[0067] like Figure 3As shown, in some embodiments, the first rotating member 350 is provided with a gear ring 351, and the driving assembly 200 includes a gear member 210, with the gear ring 351 meshing with the gear member 210. Thus, when the gear member 210 of the driving assembly 200 rotates, it can drive the first rotating member 350 to rotate. In some embodiments, the gear ring 351 is arranged circumferentially along the first rotating assembly, the axial direction of the gear ring 351 is parallel to the panel 110, and the axial direction of the gear member 210 is perpendicular to the panel 110.

[0068] like Figure 3 As shown, in some embodiments, the gear ring 351 is disposed at the end of the first rotating member 350 away from the first sidewall 340. This arrangement ensures that the gear member 210 meshing with the gear ring 351 is far from the first sidewall 340, thereby avoiding interference between the gear member 210 and the first sidewall 340 when rotating, and ensuring that the gear member 210 can rotate normally and flexibly.

[0069] like Figure 3 As shown, in some embodiments, the drive assembly 200 includes a motor 220. The socket also includes a circuit board 400 and a controller 500, with the controller 500 and motor 220 mounted on the circuit board 400 and electrically connected to each other. The controller 500 controls the operating state of the motor 220, for example, driving the motor 220 to rotate or stopping the motor 220. It should be noted that the controller 500 has a wireless communication module (not shown) and / or a wired communication module (not shown). It should also be noted that the output of the motor 220 can be connected to the gear 210, thereby driving the gear 210 to rotate through the rotation of the motor 220. The controller 500 can interact with a terminal that has a target application installed to implement the power-drawing function via the wireless communication module and / or the wired communication module. For example, when a user needs to use power, a rotation command is generated by performing a power-drawing or power-consuming operation on the target application. The controller 500 can control the drive assembly 200 to drive the power-taking module 300 to rotate based on rotation commands, so that the connector surface 310 is exposed from the opening 111 or the connector surface 310 is moved away from the opening 111. In this way, the positional relationship between the connector surface 310 and the opening 111 can be flexibly adjusted according to user needs, and the connector surface 310 can be better protected when the user does not need to use the power-taking module 300 to draw power.

[0070] Combination Figure 3 and Figure 4As shown, in some embodiments, the power-harvesting module 300 further includes a second sidewall 360, a second rotating member 370, and a power cord 380. The second sidewall 360 is opposite to the first sidewall 340, and the second rotating member 370 extends from the second sidewall 360 and is coaxially arranged with the first rotating member 350. Since the first rotating member 350 and the second rotating member 370 are coaxially arranged, when the power-harvesting module 300 rotates, it can ensure that the forces on both sides of the power-harvesting module 300 are balanced, so as to achieve smooth rotation and prevent phenomena such as offset or torsion.

[0071] The second rotating member 370 has an axially extending wire channel 371 through which a power cord 380 passes and connects to the circuit board 400. This configuration ensures that the power cord 380 remains electrically connected to the circuit board 400 regardless of the angle to which the power module 300 rotates. It is understood that the power cord 380 includes a ground wire, a live wire, and a neutral wire. In some embodiments, the socket further includes terminals (not shown) mounted on the circuit board 400, which are connected to the corresponding power cord 380 and the corresponding power supply wire. This allows current from the power supply to be directed to the power module 300, enabling the power module 300 to supply power to the device when it is plugged in.

[0072] like Figure 3 As shown, in some embodiments, the socket also includes a relay 600, which is mounted on the circuit board 400. The relay 600 is electrically connected to the power line 380 and the controller 500, respectively. The controller 500 is used to control the on / off state of the relay 600. For example, the controller 500 can control the relay 600 to close, so that the power line 380 is energized, and the power module 300 is in an energized state and can supply power to the electrical device; or the controller 500 can control the relay 600 to open, so that the power line 380 is de-energized, and the power module 300 is in a de-energized state and cannot supply power to the electrical device. It should be noted that when the user's electrical device needs power, the controller 500 first drives the motor 220 to rotate so that the plug surface 310 is exposed in the corresponding opening 111 of the power module 300, and then controls the relay 600 to close, so that the power module 300 is energized. When the user's electrical equipment no longer needs power or has finished using power, the controller 500 first controls the relay 600 to disconnect, thereby de-energizing the power supply module 300. Then, it drives the motor 220 to rotate so that the connector surface 310 is not exposed above the corresponding opening 111 of the power supply module 300. This allows the controller 500 to more flexibly control the on / off state of the relay 600 according to the user's power needs. This not only ensures that the power supply module 300 can supply power promptly but also ensures the safety of the user when unplugging the electrical equipment from the plug hole 311, and also contributes to energy conservation.

[0073] Combination Figure 2 and Figure 5 As shown, in some embodiments, the housing assembly 100 has a first receiving cavity 140 and at least one second receiving cavity 150 separated from the first receiving cavity 140, and the second receiving cavity 150 communicates with a corresponding opening 111. A circuit board 400 is located within the first receiving cavity 140. A power-taking module 300 is located within the second receiving cavity 150 corresponding to the power-taking module 300. The second receiving cavity 150 has a first mounting hole 151, through which a first rotating member 350 passes into the first receiving cavity 140. This arrangement allows liquids such as water from outside the socket to flow along the outer wall of the power-taking module 300 into the second receiving cavity 150 without flowing into the first receiving cavity 140, thereby preventing water and other impurities from damaging the circuit board 400 within the first receiving cavity 140 and extending the socket's service life.

[0074] like Figure 5 As shown, in some embodiments, the power-taking module 300 is clearance-fitted with the edge of the opening 111. The cavity wall of the second receiving cavity 150 has a drain hole 152, which leads to the outside of the socket. It is understood that the gap formed between the power-taking module 300 and the edge of the opening 111 not only facilitates the free rotation of the power-taking module 300 within the second receiving cavity 150 but also provides a flow channel for water. Water can flow into the second receiving cavity 150 through the gap between the power-taking module 300 and the edge of the opening 111, and then drain out of the socket through the drain hole 152. With this configuration, when the socket is exposed to rain, liquid can be drained promptly through the drain hole 152, preventing water accumulation from affecting the normal operation of the internal components of the socket, thereby extending the service life of the socket.

[0075] like Figure 5 As shown, in some embodiments, one side wall of the second receiving cavity 150 has a plurality of drainage holes 152, one of which is located at the center of the cavity wall of the second receiving cavity 150. This ensures that water can be discharged from the second receiving cavity 150 in a timely manner.

[0076] like Figure 5 As shown, in some embodiments, the second receiving cavity 150 includes a bottom wall 153, which is disposed opposite to the opening 111 of the panel 110. The bottom wall 153 is arc-shaped, with the concave surface of the arc facing the opening 111. When water flows into the second receiving cavity 150, the arc-shaped bottom wall facilitates water drainage.

[0077] Combination Figure 2 and Figure 5As shown, in some embodiments, the housing assembly 100 further includes a back plate 160, to which a first support member 161 is connected, extending toward the panel 110. A second support member 112 is connected to the panel 110 along the circumference of the opening 111, extending toward the back plate 160. The end face of the first support member 161 abuts against the end face of the second support member 112, forming a second receiving cavity 150. It should be noted that the first support member 161 and the second support member 112 can provide support for the power extraction module 300. The connection of the second support member 112 along the circumference of the opening 111 of the panel 110 ensures that external water flow can flow along the edge of the opening 111 into the second receiving cavity 150, without flowing into the first receiving cavity 140.

[0078] like Figure 2 As shown, in some embodiments, the first rotating member 350 is provided with a first stop member 320, and a second stop member 120 is connected to the surface of the panel 110 facing the back plate 160, extending towards the back plate 160. The first rotating member 350 is provided with a third stop member 330, and the outer wall of the second receiving cavity 150 is provided with a fourth stop member 130. The first stop member 320 and the third stop member 330 are arranged opposite each other radially to the first rotating member 350. With this arrangement, the power-taking module 300 can reciprocate 180 degrees within the second receiving cavity 150, ensuring that when the power-taking module 300 is not in use, the connector surface 310 can be completely hidden within the second receiving cavity 150, thereby providing better protection for the power-taking module 300.

[0079] like Figure 2 As shown, in some embodiments, the first support member 161 has a first notch 162, and the second support member 112 has a second notch 113. The first notch 162 and the second notch 113 are opposite to each other, and the first notch 162 and the second notch 113 together form a first mounting hole 151. It should be noted that when assembling the power-collecting module 300, the first rotating member 350 can be first snapped into the first notch 162, and then the second support member 112 can be aligned with the first support member 161 so that the first notch 162 and the second notch 113 are opposite to each other. Thus, the first rotating member 350 can be confined within the first mounting hole 151 formed by the first notch 162 and the second notch 113.

[0080] Combination Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, in some embodiments, the first support member 161 further has a third notch 163, and the second support member 112 further has a fourth notch. The third notch 163 and the fourth notch are opposite to each other, and the third notch 163 and the fourth notch together form a second mounting hole (not shown in the figure). The second mounting hole and the first mounting hole 151 are coaxially arranged. The second rotating member 370 extends from the second mounting hole into the second receiving cavity 150. It can be understood that the second mounting hole plays a positioning role for the second rotating member 370. It should be noted that when assembling the power-taking module 300, the second rotating member 370 is first snapped into the third notch 163, and then the second support member 112 is aligned with the first support member 161 so that the third notch 163 and the fourth notch are opposite to each other, so that the second rotating member 370 can be limited within the second mounting hole formed by the third notch 163 and the fourth notch.

[0081] like Figure 6 As shown, on the other hand, this application embodiment also provides a socket control method, which is applied to a socket as described in any of the above embodiments of this application, and can be executed by a controller 500 within the socket. The socket control method includes the following steps 101 to 102.

[0082] In step 101, the controller 500 receives the first rotation command.

[0083] The user's terminal can install a target application for implementing the power-drawing function. This target application can interact with the wireless communication module and / or wired communication module in the controller 500. In some embodiments, the target application generates a first rotation command in response to the power-drawing operation and sends the first rotation command to the controller 500. The controller 500 receives the first rotation command. It should be noted that there are many types of power-drawing operations. Generally, a QR code for implementing the power-drawing function can be provided on the socket. For example, the power-drawing operation can be a user scanning the QR code on the socket using the target application's scanning control.

[0084] In step 102, the controller 500 controls the drive assembly 200 to drive the power-taking module 300 to rotate based on the first rotation command, so that the plug-in surface 310 of the power-taking module 300 is exposed in the corresponding opening 111.

[0085] In some embodiments, the controller 500 controls the drive assembly 200 to drive the power-harvesting module 300 to rotate along a first direction based on a first rotation command, so that the contact surface of the power-harvesting module 300 is exposed in the corresponding opening 111. The first direction is either clockwise or counterclockwise.

[0086] The socket control method provided in this application embodiment can link the rotation process of the power-gathering module 300 with the user's power-gathering operation. The controller 500 can automatically rotate the power-gathering module 300 to a position where the contact surface is exposed in the corresponding opening 111, based on the user's scanning operation performed on the target application on the terminal, only when the user needs power. This allows the position of the plug surface 310 to be adjusted according to user needs, so that the plug of the electrical device can be inserted into the pin hole 311 of the plug surface 310 to realize the power-gathering process of the electrical device. In other words, the socket control method provided in this application embodiment can automatically and flexibly control the orientation of the power-gathering module 300 without manual operation by the user, thus simplifying the user's operation steps.

[0087] In some embodiments, the housing assembly 100 further includes a shield 170, one end of which is connected to at least a portion of the circumferential direction of the panel 110, and the other end extends away from the panel 110. It should be noted that when rainwater or other liquids fall onto the socket, they can impact the outer wall of the shield 170 to prevent them from falling into the area where the power supply module 300 is located, thereby further improving the socket's waterproof performance.

[0088] In some embodiments, the shield 170 includes a first baffle, a second baffle, and a third baffle connected to each other. The first baffle and the third baffle are disposed opposite to each other and are respectively connected to different sides of the panel 110. This arrangement forms a generally U-shaped baffle, which more effectively prevents rainwater from directly falling onto the power supply module 300, thus improving the waterproof performance of the socket.

[0089] like Figure 7 As shown, this application embodiment also provides a socket control method, which is applied to a socket as described in any of the above embodiments of this application, and can be executed by a controller 500 within the socket. The socket control method includes the following steps 201 to 204.

[0090] In step 201, the controller 500 receives the first rotation command.

[0091] It should be noted that step 201 is the same as step 101, so it will not be repeated here.

[0092] In step 202, the controller 500 selects at least one target power supply module from the power supply modules 300 that are in a non-powered state.

[0093] It should be noted that a socket typically includes one, two, or more power modules 300. Each power module 300 is not in the same state; for example, some power modules 300 are in a powered-on state, while others are in a non-powered-on state. A powered-on state refers to the state where the connector 310 of the power module 300 is exposed through the corresponding opening 111. In this state, the power module 300 can be plugged into the electrical device, and the device can draw power from it. A non-powered state refers to the state where the connector 310 of the power module 300 is not exposed through the corresponding opening 111. In this state, the power module 300 is not connected to the electrical device, meaning the device is not drawing power from it. For example... Figure 2 As shown, the socket includes two power supply modules 300. One is located on the plug surface 310 and protrudes from the opening 111. When the electrical device is inserted into the plug hole 311 and connected to the socket, the power supply module 300 is in a power supply state. The other is located on the plug surface 310 and does not protrude from the opening 111, that is, it is in a non-power supply state.

[0094] In step 203, the controller 500 controls the drive component 200 corresponding to the target power supply module to drive the target power supply module to rotate.

[0095] The socket control method provided in this application selects a power-gathering module 300 that is not in a power-supply state from among multiple power-gathering modules 300 before rotating it, thus avoiding rotating power-gathering modules 300 that are already in a power-supply state. This not only ensures the validity of rotating the power-gathering module 300 but also prevents rotating power-gathering modules 300 that are already in a power-supply state from preventing them from continuing to supply power.

[0096] It should be noted that steps 202 and 203 are one way to control the drive component 200 to drive the power supply module 300 to rotate.

[0097] In some embodiments, the controller 500, in response to the insertion surface 310 of the target power supply module being exposed in the corresponding opening 111 of the target power supply module, controls the relay 600 to close. This energizes the power-gathering module 300, enabling the target power supply module to be in a powered state and able to supply power to the electrical equipment. Therefore, the controller 500 can more flexibly control the on / off state of the relay 600 according to the user's power demand, allowing the power-gathering module 300 to supply power to the external system in a timely manner, while also achieving energy savings.

[0098] In step 204, when the plug surface 310 of the power-taking module 300 is exposed in the opening 111, when a preset condition is detected, the drive assembly 200 is controlled to drive the power-taking module 300 to rotate so that the plug surface 310 is not exposed in the opening 111.

[0099] In some embodiments, the preset conditions include any one of the following:

[0100] First, the second rotation command is received and the pin hole 311 of the power-taking module 300 is not inserted. In some embodiments, the target application generates a second rotation command in response to the power consumption completion operation and sends the second rotation command to the controller 500. The controller 500 receives the second rotation command. It should be noted that there are many types of power consumption completion operations. For example, the user can trigger the power consumption completion control by clicking, double-clicking, or long-pressing. This method ensures that when the device does not require power and the user unplugs the device, the plug surface 310 of the power-taking module 300 is rotated to a position that is not exposed in the opening 111. This ensures that the plug surface 310 is hidden and protected when the user does not need power, preventing the plug surface 310 from being exposed for a long time and thus improving the safety of the socket.

[0101] Secondly, the pin hole 311 of the power supply module 300 is not inserted within a preset time. This allows the socket surface 310 to be hidden and protected in time when the user accidentally touches the power supply operation or unplugs the electrical equipment but forgets to complete the power supply operation, avoiding damage to the socket surface 310 due to long-term exposure, and improving the safety of the socket.

[0102] Third, water intrusion is detected and the pin hole 311 of the power-gathering module 300 is not inserted. In some embodiments, the socket is also provided with a humidity detector electrically connected to the controller 500, which is used to detect the humidity value inside the power-gathering module 300. When the current humidity value detected by the humidity detector is greater than a preset humidity value, the controller 500 determines that the power-gathering module 300 is in a water-intrusion state. By hiding the plug surface 310 when the pin hole 311 is not inserted and water intrusion is detected, the power-gathering module 300 can be protected in time to reduce the damage to the power-gathering module 300 or the socket, and the power-gathering module 300 can be prevented from being rotated when the pin hole 311 is inserted, ensuring that the plug or cable of the electrical device will not be damaged during the rotation of the power-gathering module 300.

[0103] In some embodiments, step 204 further includes: the controller 500 generating a disconnect command in response to detecting that any preset condition is met, wherein the disconnect command is used to control the relay 600 to disconnect. In response to the relay 600 being disconnected, the control drive assembly 200 drives the power-gathering module 300 to rotate, so that the connector surface 310 of the power-gathering module 300 is not exposed above the corresponding opening 111 of the power-gathering module 300. This allows for timely power disconnection of the power-gathering module 300, ensuring electrical safety and also contributing to energy conservation.

[0104] In summary, the socket control method provided in this application can automatically rotate the power-taking module 300 to expose the socket surface 310 when the user needs electricity, making it convenient for the user to use. It can also automatically rotate the power-taking module 300 to hide the socket surface 310 when the user has finished using electricity or when there is a safety hazard in the power-taking module 300, preventing external water or other impurities from entering the power-taking module 300. In other words, it can better protect the socket surface 310, improve the safety of using the socket, and extend the service life of the socket.

[0105] Other embodiments of this application will readily occur to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the specification and practice of the application disclosed herein. This application is intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of this application that follow the general principles of this application and include common knowledge or customary techniques in the art not disclosed herein. The specification and examples are to be considered exemplary only.

[0106] It should be understood that this application is not limited to the precise structure described above and shown in the accompanying drawings, and various modifications and changes can be made without departing from its scope. The scope of this application is limited only by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A socket, characterized in that, The socket includes a housing assembly (100), a drive assembly (200), and at least one power supply module (300). The housing assembly (100) includes a panel (110) having at least one opening (111). The power-gathering module (300) is installed within the housing assembly (100), at least a portion of the power-gathering module (300) is exposed from the opening (111) corresponding to the power-gathering module (300), the power-gathering module (300) includes a mating surface (310) having a pin hole (311), and the power-gathering module (300) also includes a first stop (320). The drive assembly (200) is connected to the corresponding power-gathering module (300). The drive assembly (200) is used to drive the corresponding power-gathering module (300) to rotate relative to the panel (110) to adjust the orientation of the plug-in surface (310). The housing assembly (100) also includes a second stop (120). The second stop (120) and the first stop (320) cooperate to limit the rotation of the power-gathering module (300). When the power-gathering module (300) rotates to the point where the first stop (320) abuts against the second stop (120), the plug-in surface (310) is exposed from the opening (111). When the plug-in surface (310) is exposed from the opening (111), the plug-in surface (310) is flush with the panel (110).

2. The socket according to claim 1, characterized in that, The power-gathering module (300) further includes a third stop (330), and the housing assembly (100) further includes a fourth stop (130). The third stop (330) and the second stop (120) are offset from each other in the axial direction of the rotation of the power-gathering module (300), and the fourth stop (130) and the first stop (320) are offset from each other in the axial direction of the rotation of the power-gathering module (300). When the power-gathering module (300) rotates to the point where the third stop (330) and the fourth stop (130) abut against each other, the insertion surface (310) is away from the opening (111).

3. The socket according to claim 1, characterized in that, The power supply module (300) further includes a first sidewall (340) and a first rotating member (350), the first rotating member (350) extending from the first sidewall (340) and rotatably connected to the drive assembly (200).

4. The socket according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first rotating member (350) is provided with a toothed ring (351), and the drive assembly (200) includes a gear (210), the toothed ring (351) meshing with the gear (210).

5. The socket according to claim 3, characterized in that, The drive assembly (200) includes a motor (220); The socket also includes a circuit board (400) and a controller (500), the controller (500) and the motor (220) are mounted on the circuit board (400) and electrically connected to each other, the controller (500) is used to control the working state of the motor (220).

6. The socket according to claim 5, characterized in that, The power supply module (300) also includes a second sidewall (360), a second rotating component (370), and a power cord (380). The second sidewall (360) is opposite to the first sidewall (340), and the second rotating member (370) extends out from the second sidewall (360) and is coaxially arranged with the first rotating member (350); The second rotating member (370) has an axially extending wire channel (371) through which the power line (380) passes and is connected to the circuit board (400).

7. The socket according to claim 6, characterized in that, The socket also includes a relay (600), which is mounted on the circuit board (400). The relay (600) is electrically connected to the power line (380) and the controller (500), respectively. The controller (500) is used to control the on / off state of the relay (600).

8. The socket according to claim 5, characterized in that, The housing assembly (100) has a first receiving cavity (140) and at least one second receiving cavity (150) separated from the first receiving cavity (140), the second receiving cavity (150) communicating with the opening (111) corresponding to the second receiving cavity (150); The circuit board (400) is located within the first receiving cavity (140); The power-taking module (300) is located in the second receiving cavity (150) corresponding to the power-taking module (300). The second receiving cavity (150) has a first mounting hole (151). The first rotating member (350) passes through the first mounting hole (151) into the first receiving cavity (140).

9. The socket according to claim 8, characterized in that, The power extraction module (300) is fitted with the edge of the opening (111) with a clearance. The second receiving cavity (150) has a drain hole (152) in its cavity wall, which leads to the outside of the socket.

10. The socket according to claim 8, characterized in that, The housing assembly (100) also includes a back plate (160) to which a first support member (161) is connected, the first support member (161) extending toward the panel (110); The panel (110) is circumferentially connected to a second support member (112) along the opening (111), and the second support member (112) extends toward the back panel (160); The end face of the first support member (161) abuts against the end face of the second support member (112) to form the second receiving cavity (150).

11. The socket according to claim 10, characterized in that, The first support member (161) has a first notch (162), and the second support member (112) has a second notch (113). The first notch (162) and the second notch (113) are opposite to each other, and the first notch (162) and the second notch (113) together form the first mounting hole (151).

12. A socket control method, characterized in that, The socket control method is used to control a socket as described in any one of claims 1 to 11, the socket control method comprising: Receive the first rotation command; Based on the first rotation command, the drive assembly (200) is controlled to drive the power-taking module (300) to rotate so that the plug-in surface (310) of the power-taking module (300) is exposed in the corresponding opening (111).

13. The socket control method according to claim 12, characterized in that, Controlling the drive assembly (200) to drive the power extraction module (300) to rotate includes: Select at least one target power supply module from the power supply modules (300) that are in a non-powered state; The drive component (200) corresponding to the target power supply module is controlled to drive the target power supply module to rotate.

14. The socket control method according to claim 12, characterized in that, The socket control method further includes: When the plug surface (310) of the power-taking module (300) is exposed in the opening (111), when a preset condition is detected, the drive assembly (200) is controlled to drive the power-taking module (300) to rotate so that the plug surface (310) is not exposed in the opening (111).

15. The socket control method according to claim 14, characterized in that, The preset conditions include any one of the following: The second rotation command is received and the pin hole (311) of the power supply module (300) is not inserted; The pin hole (311) of the power supply module (300) was not inserted within a preset time; and, Water intrusion was detected and the pin hole (311) of the power supply module (300) was not inserted.

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