Kit of personal care appliance and power plug

Abstract

A kit comprises a personal care appliance (11, 12) and a power supply device (40). The personal care appliance (11, 12) and the power supply device (40) may have mating connectors.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a kit of personal care appliances, power plugs for personal care appliances, and in particular to male and female connectors for use in personal care appliances and power plugs. Background Art

[0002] Personal care appliances are widely used. Examples of such appliances include hair removal, cutting or trimming devices (such as razors, body grooming devices, epilator devices, etc.) or oral care devices (such as toothbrushes, tongue cleaning devices or dental irrigators).

[0003] Various personal care appliances are designed to be used in wet conditions, such as in the shower or in the bathtub. Such personal care appliances may be designed to be used in wet conditions. The ability of a personal care appliance to resist water ingress may be classified by an ingress protection (IP) rating.

[0004] While personal care appliances are designed to resist water ingress, there may still be challenges associated with the electrical connectors of such personal care appliances and the associated power supplies. To illustrate, residual moisture may cause electrolysis of the electrical contacts, thereby reducing appliance life. To further illustrate, it may be particularly relevant to ensure that the connected power supply is Summary of the invention

[0005] A kit includes a first personal care appliance, wherein the first personal care appliance is one of an electric toothbrush, a razor, a charging device, a cleaning station or an epilator, the first personal care appliance including a first housing having a first socket, optionally having exactly two connector sleeves; wherein the first socket has a first socket geometry selected from a set of two or more different socket geometries, each of which is assigned a different IP rating among several ingress protection IP ratings, the first socket geometry being assigned a first IP rating. The kit includes a power supply device, the power supply device including a power plug, optionally having exactly two connector pins, wherein the power plug has a plug geometry selected from a set of two or more different plug geometries, each of which is assigned a different IP rating among two or more IP ratings. The first socket is shaped to allow insertion of the power plug when the plug geometry is assigned an IP rating equal to the first IP rating, to allow insertion of the power plug when the plug geometry is assigned an IP rating higher than the first IP rating, and to prevent insertion of the power plug when the plug geometry is assigned an IP rating lower than the first IP rating.

[0006] A kit includes a power supply device, the power supply device including a power plug, the power plug having a first plug geometry selected from a group of two or more different plug geometries, each of which is assigned a different IP rating in two or more IP ratings. The kit includes a personal care appliance, the personal care appliance including a socket, the socket having a socket geometry selected from a group of two or more different plug geometries, each of which is assigned a different IP category in the two or more IP categories. The power plug is shaped to allow insertion into the socket when the first IP rating is equal to the IP rating assigned to the socket geometry and when the first IP rating is greater than the IP rating assigned to the socket geometry. The power plug is shaped to prevent insertion into the socket when the first IP rating is less than the IP rating assigned to the socket geometry.

[0007] Advantageously, the kit comprises: a first personal care appliance, the first personal care appliance comprising a first housing, the first housing having a first socket, the first socket having a first socket geometry; a second personal care appliance, the second personal care appliance comprising a second housing, the second housing having a second socket, the second socket having a second socket geometry, the second housing being configured to be more watertight than the first housing; a first power supply device, the first power supply device comprising a first power supply housing and a first power supply plug, the first power supply plug having a first plug geometry; a second power supply device, the second power supply device comprising a second power supply housing and a second power supply plug, the second power supply plug having a second plug geometry, the second power supply housing being configured to be more watertight than the first power supply housing, wherein the first plug geometry is configured to fit in the first socket but not in the second socket, and wherein the second plug geometry is configured to fit in both the first socket and the second socket. This ensures that the user can electrically connect only those personal care appliances that are configured with the same degree of watertightness or a higher standard of watertightness through the plug of the power supply device.

[0008] Furthermore, the first plug geometry has a first connection surface provided for connection with the first socket, which is larger than a second connection surface of the second plug geometry provided for connection with the second socket. When a corresponding adapter plug is inserted into the socket, those connection surfaces are covered by the socket.

[0009] In addition, the first plug geometry is provided with a first lateral recess, and wherein the second plug geometry is provided with a second lateral recess, and wherein the second lateral recess is deeper than the first lateral recess. Therefore, the external geometry of different plug types differs in the depth of the lateral recess. Deeper recesses also increase the connection surface of the plug. Further advantageously, the group includes at least a third appliance and a power supply device. The kit includes: a third personal care appliance, the third personal care appliance including a third housing, the third housing having a third socket, the third socket having a third socket geometry, the second housing and the first housing being arranged to be more watertight than the third housing; a third power supply device, the third power supply device including a third power supply housing and a third power plug, the third power plug having a third plug geometry, the second power supply housing and the first power supply housing being arranged to be more watertight than the first power supply housing, wherein the first plug geometry and the second plug geometry are arranged to fit in the third socket, and wherein the third plug geometry is arranged to fit neither in the first socket nor in the second socket.

[0010] The first power supply device and the second power supply device are switch mode power supply types that convert the mains voltage to a lower appliance voltage, and / or the first personal care appliance and the second personal care appliance are one of an electric toothbrush, a razor, a charging device, a cleaning station or an epilator.

[0011] According to the above, different plug and socket geometries are used to ensure appropriate adaptation structures with respect to the IP rating or water tightness of the device to be electrically connected. Alternatively, the different plug and socket geometries and adaptation structures described above and below can be used to ensure different compatibility purposes, such as appropriate electrical parameters (voltage, current) for the power supply of an appliance or other. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] The embodiments will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein like or corresponding reference numerals designate like or corresponding elements throughout the drawings.

[0013] Figure 1 A system including a personal care appliance and a power supply is shown.

[0014] Figure 2 is a partial view of a personal care appliance.

[0015] Figure 3 is a partial view of a power supply device.

[0016] Figure 4 It is a plan view of a socket for a personal care appliance.

[0017] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 Cross-sectional view of the socket.

[0018] Figure 6 is a plan view of a plug of a power supply device.

[0019] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 Cross-sectional view of the plug.

[0020] Figure 8 yes Figure 6 A perspective view of a plug connector.

[0021] Fig. 9 yes Figure 6 A plan view of the plug.

[0022] Fig.10 yes Figure 6 Exploded view of the plug.

[0023] Fig.11 yes Figure 6 Cross-sectional view of the plug.

[0024] Fig.12 yes Figure 6 Another floor plan of the plug.

[0025] Fig.13 yes Figure 4 The socket is in Figure 6 Cross-sectional view of the plug when engaged.

[0026] Fig.14 is an exploded view showing the connector pins of the receptacle and the connector sleeve of the plug.

[0027] Fig.15 is a plan view of an end portion of a personal care appliance.

[0028] Fig.16 is a plan view of a socket of a personal care appliance having a second protrusion geometry.

[0029] Fig.17 is a plan view of a plug of a power supply device having a second connector recess geometry.

[0030] Fig.18 yes Fig.17 A perspective view of a plug connector.

[0031] Fig.19 is a plan view of a socket of a personal care appliance having a third protrusion geometry.

[0032] Fig. 20 is a plan view of a plug of a power supply device having a second connector recess geometry.

[0033] Fig.21 yes Fig. 20 A perspective view of a plug connector.

[0034] Fig. 22 is a table showing various receptacle geometries and various plug geometries that can be combined in a kit.

[0035] Fig.23 A power supply according to one embodiment is shown.

[0036] Fig.24 is a block diagram of a personal care appliance according to one embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0037] The embodiments will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The features of the embodiments may be combined with each other unless explicitly stated otherwise.

[0038] Although embodiments will be described in association with power supplies for hair removal or cutting appliances or oral care appliances, and in association with systems, kits, and methods that may relate to such personal care appliances, the technology is not limited thereto. For illustration, the socket and plug geometries disclosed herein may be used in association with power supplies to other appliances, particularly other household appliances. Male and female connectors may be used to supply power to household appliances, which may be, but need not be, personal care appliances. Kitchen appliances or smart mobile devices are examples for such appliances.

[0039] Although an embodiment in which a female connector is disposed on an appliance and a male connector is disposed on a power supply will be described, the invention is not limited thereto. In other embodiments, a male connector may be disposed on an appliance and a female connector may be disposed on a power supply.

[0040] Embodiments of the present invention are directed to features for supplying power to an appliance that are suitable for alleviating problems associated with residual moisture.

[0041] Techniques are provided to mitigate the adverse effects of electrical creep currents and / or allow unintentional use of an appliance including a power supply that does not have a required ingress protection (IP) rating.

[0042] As used herein, the phrase "power supply" or "supplying power" includes providing electrical energy to an appliance for on-site use of the appliance (e.g., for driving an electromechanical actuator using the supplied power) as well as providing electrical energy to the appliance for charging a battery that may optionally be present.

[0043] An apparatus comprises a housing having a socket for inserting a plug, a first connector pin and a second connector pin. At least a portion of the first connector pin and at least a portion of the second connector pin extend in the socket. The first connector pin has a first central axis. The second connector pin has a second central axis. The first central axis and the second central axis are spaced apart by a pin distance. The first central axis and the second central axis define a first plane. The second plane is perpendicular to the first plane and extends parallel to the first central axis and the second central axis and is equidistantly spaced apart from the first central axis and the second central axis. The socket is provided with a socket circumferential wall and a socket bottom wall. The socket circumferential wall comprises a first circumferential wall segment, a second circumferential wall segment, a third circumferential wall segment and a fourth circumferential wall segment, the third circumferential wall segment being curved, the third circumferential wall segment intersecting the first plane and interconnecting the first wall segment and the second wall segment, the fourth circumferential wall segment being curved, the fourth circumferential wall segment intersecting the first plane and interconnecting the first wall segment and the second wall segment. The first circumferential wall segment and the second circumferential wall segment are arranged on opposite sides of the first plane. The third circumferential wall segment and the fourth circumferential wall segment are arranged on opposite sides of the second plane. The second circumferential wall segment includes a protrusion segment forming a protrusion. The socket bottom wall includes: a first bottom wall segment, the first bottom wall segment extends transversely to the first plane and the second plane, wherein the first connector pin protrudes from the first bottom wall segment; a second bottom wall segment, the second bottom wall segment extends transversely to the first plane and the second plane, wherein the second connector pin protrudes from the second bottom wall segment. The third plane is perpendicular to the first plane and the second plane. The first bottom wall segment and the second bottom wall segment may extend in the third plane. The third circumferential wall segment may have a radius of curvature. More specifically, the intersection of the third circumferential wall segment and the third plane has a curvature line, and the curvature line has a radius of curvature. The ratio of the radius of curvature to the pin distance is at most 0.35. The radius of curvature of the third circumferential wall segment may be a radius of curvature measured on a portion of the third circumferential wall segment closest to the third plane (eg, located within the third plane).

[0044] In the device, the radius of curvature of the third circumferential wall segment (which may be the same as the radius of curvature of the fourth circumferential wall segment) is a quantitative indicator of the height of the socket measured perpendicular to the first plane. By maintaining the ratio of the radius of curvature to the pin distance to at most 0.35, the risk of electrical creep can be reduced. The electrical creep resistance is increased by spacing the connector pins apart by a pin distance that is sufficiently large compared to the radius of curvature, so that the ratio of the radius of curvature to the pin distance is at most 0.35. This relatively large pin distance for reducing the risk of electrical creep, combined with the relatively small radius of curvature of the fourth (and preferably also the third) circumferential wall, allows a plug and socket design that is still very compact despite the pin distance. Therefore, the plug and socket are made relatively wide in the direction of the pin distance, but also narrow in the direction orthogonal to the direction of the pin distance.

[0045] The appliance may be a personal care appliance or other household appliance. Providing enhanced resistance to the adverse effects of residual moisture is particularly relevant for such devices.

[0046] The appliance may be a personal care appliance which is a hair removal, cutting or trimming device such as a razor, body grooming device, epilation device etc. Providing enhanced resistance to the adverse effects of residual moisture is particularly relevant for such devices.

[0047] The appliance may be a personal care appliance that is an oral care device such as a toothbrush, a tongue cleaning device or a dental irrigating device. Providing enhanced resistance to the adverse effects of residual moisture is particularly relevant for such devices.

[0048] The third circumferential wall segment may comprise a first arc extending around the first central axis over a first angle of at least 170°.Alternatively or additionally, the fourth circumferential wall segment may comprise a second arc extending around the second central axis over a second angle of at least 170°.

[0049] The third circumferential wall segment may be shaped as a frustoconical arc or a cylindrical segment extending over an angle of at least 170° around the first centre axis (as respectively seen from the inside).

[0050] The fourth circumferential wall segment may be shaped as a frustoconical arc or a cylindrical segment extending over an angle of at least 170° around the second centre axis (as respectively seen from the inside).

[0051] The socket may have a socket width measured along the first plane (e.g., as the distance between points located on the third circumferential wall segment and the fourth circumferential wall segment and on the first plane). The ratio of the pin distance to the socket width may be at least 0.60, at least 0.61, or at least 0.62. In a socket having such a configuration, the pins are spaced farther apart than in conventional connector configurations, which further reduces the risk of creep currents.

[0052] The first plane and the third plane may intersect the socket circumferential wall at a first intersection. The first plane and the third plane may also intersect the socket circumferential wall at a second intersection. The socket width may be the distance between the first intersection and the second intersection, and the ratio of the pin distance to the socket width may be at least 0.60, at least 0.61, or at least 0.62. In a socket having such a configuration, the pins are spaced farther apart than in a conventional connector configuration, which further reduces the risk of creep currents.

[0053] The socket may have a socket height measured along a plane parallel to the second plane and passing through the first central axis (e.g., as the distance between points located on the first circumferential wall segment and the second circumferential wall segment and on a plane parallel to the second plane and passing through the first central axis). The ratio of the socket height to the socket width may be at most 0.60, at most 0.55, at most 0.50, at most 0.45, or at most 0.40. Alternatively or additionally, the ratio of the socket height to the pin distance may be at most 0.80, at most 0.75, at most 0.70, at most 0.65, at most 0.60, at most 0.55, at most 0.50, at most 0.45, or at most 0.40. When the socket has such a configuration, the socket height is relatively small compared to a conventional female connector. This further reduces the risk of creep currents and allows the screw head or bolt head to be positioned separate from the socket and adjacent to the socket.

[0054] Each of the third circumferential wall segment and the fourth circumferential wall segment may have a radius of curvature. More specifically, the intersection of the third circumferential wall segment and the fourth circumferential wall segment with the third plane has a line of curvature having a radius of curvature. One or more of the following may be applied: the ratio of the radius of curvature to the width of the socket may be at most 0.20; the ratio of the radius of curvature to the pin distance may be at most 0.35 or at most 0.33. When the socket has such a configuration, the socket height (which is approximately twice the radius of curvature of the third circumferential wall segment and the fourth circumferential wall segment) is relatively small compared to a conventional female connector. This further reduces the risk of creep currents and allows the screw head or bolt head to be positioned separate from and adjacent to the socket.

[0055] The socket bottom wall may include a rib extending between the first bottom wall section and the second bottom wall section and protruding relative to the first bottom wall section and the second bottom wall section to separate the first bottom wall section and the second bottom wall section.

[0056] In the appliance, the ribbed portion of the bottom wall reduces electrical creep current through moisture that may be left in the socket. The creep distance is increased, resulting in increased resistance and reduced current. The protrusion serves to prevent reverse polarity insertion of the plug of the power supply. The protrusion also mitigates the risk of using the appliance in association with a power supply having an ingress protection rating that is inconsistent with the ingress protection (IP) rating (IPC) of the appliance and / or with a power supply that was not originally intended for use on or with the appliance.

[0057] The rib-shaped portion can extend continuously from the first circumferential wall segment to the second circumferential wall segment, thereby further reducing electrical creep.

[0058] The rib may have an apex line lying in the second plane.Electrical creep is further reduced by the rib having an apex (ie, the location at which the peak of the rib protrudes a maximum distance from the first and second bottom segments) lying intermediate the first and second legs.

[0059] The first circumferential wall section can have a shape that is different from the shape of the second circumferential wall section. This achieves protection against insertion of a plug with reverse polarity.

[0060] The first circumferential wall section can be planar. This makes it easier to manufacture and easier to insert the plug.

[0061] The second circumferential wall section may be provided with a protrusion.

[0062] The protrusion may have a protrusion width measured along the width direction of the socket (e.g., in the third plane). The ratio of the protrusion width to the socket width may be at least 0.60 or at least 0.61. When the socket has such a configuration, the protrusion width is relatively large compared to a conventional female connector. This further reduces the risk of electrical creep currents by increasing the distance that the creep current must pass through the constriction, and allows the screw head or bolt head to be positioned separate from and adjacent to the socket.

[0063] The second center axis may be offset from the first center axis along the width direction of the socket. The protrusion segment may have a protrusion width measured along the width direction. The protrusion width may be determined as the distance between the first protrusion segment end and the second protrusion segment end along the width direction, where the second circumferential wall segment begins to bend inward relative to the plane interconnecting the end of the third circumferential wall segment and the end of the fourth circumferential wall segment. In the case of a variable protrusion width, the term protrusion width should refer to the widest width that can be measured. (For illustration, the protrusion width can be obtained by: determining the intersection curve of the second circumferential wall segment and the third plane; determining the end of the protrusion segment as the outermost point of the segment on the intersection curve, at which the distance between the intersection curve and the first plane is less than the maximum distance determined by the end of the third circumferential wall segment and the end of the fourth circumferential wall segment; and determining the protrusion width as the distance between these outermost points that define the protrusion width). The ratio of the protrusion width to the socket width may be at least 0.60 or at least 0.61. When the socket has such a configuration, the protrusion width is relatively large compared to a conventional female connector. This further reduces the risk of electrical creep currents by increasing the distance the creep current must pass through the constriction and allows the screw head or bolt head to be positioned separate from and adjacent to the socket.

[0064] The personal care appliance may further comprise a screw head or a bolt head which may be exposed on a surface of the housing. The housing may comprise a recess in which the screw head or the bolt head may be arranged.

[0065] The recess may be separate from the socket. The configuration of the socket allows the recess for the screw head or bolt head to be positioned outside the socket. This further reduces electrical creep currents, since there may be no creep current between the first connector pin and the second connector pin via the screw head or bolt head due to the presence of a dividing wall between the screw and the socket.

[0066] The housing may comprise a partition wall arranged between the socket and a recess in which the screw head or bolt head is arranged.

[0067] The dividing wall may have an outer end defining a peripheral edge of the socket.

[0068] The interconnection plane may interconnect the end of the third circumferential wall segment connected to the second circumferential wall segment and the end of the fourth circumferential wall segment. The interconnection plane may intersect the recess. This configuration allows the recess in which the screw head or bolt head is arranged to protrude into the area in which the protrusion protrudes toward the first circumferential wall segment of the socket. This configuration allows the screw head or bolt head to be placed outside the socket by providing sufficient available area for the screw or bolt adjacent to the socket, which also reduces electrical creep currents because there may be no creep current between the first connector pin and the second connector pin via the screw head or bolt head.

[0069] The radius of curvature of the fourth circumferential wall segment may be equal to the radius of curvature of the third circumferential wall segment.

[0070] The ratio of the radius of curvature to the pin distance may be at most 0.35 or at most 0.33.

[0071] The appliance may further include an electrical power component connected to the first connector pin and the second connector pin.

[0072] The electrical power component may be designed to operate when the power supply voltage between the first connector pin and the second connector pin is in the range of 2 V to 18 V or 4 V to 12 V, or at a low voltage of 5 V. This facilitates the compatibility of the appliance with voltages provided by, for example, USB type charging devices, thereby providing a platform of appliance connectors suitable for integration with charging devices operating at low voltage levels, such as 2 V to 18 V, 4 V to 12 V, or 5 V.

[0073] The electrical power components may include batteries.

[0074] The electrical power components may include electromechanical actuators.

[0075] The protrusion of the appliance may have a protrusion geometry selected from a set of protrusion geometries, each of the set of protrusion geometries being associated with a different IP rating.

[0076] The protrusion geometry of the socket may allow a plug having a plug recess geometry to be inserted into the socket, as long as the plug recess geometry is assigned an IP rating equal to the IP rating of the appliance. The protrusion geometry of the socket may additionally allow a plug having a plug recess geometry to be inserted into the socket, as long as the plug recess geometry is assigned an IP rating greater than the IP rating of the appliance.

[0077] The first connector pin may have a diameter measured perpendicular to the first central axis that varies along the first central axis to enable the first connector pin to snap into the connector sleeve of the male connector.

[0078] According to another embodiment of the apparatus comprises a housing having a socket for inserting a plug, a first connector pin and a second connector pin. At least a portion of the first connector pin and at least a portion of the second connector pin extend in the socket. The first connector pin has a first central axis. The second connector pin has a second central axis. The first central axis and the second central axis are spaced apart by a pin distance. The first central axis and the second central axis define a first plane. The second plane is perpendicular to the first plane and extends parallel to the first central axis and the second central axis and is equidistantly spaced apart from the first central axis and the second central axis. The socket is provided with a socket circumferential wall and a socket bottom wall. The socket circumferential wall comprises a first circumferential wall segment, a second circumferential wall segment, a third circumferential wall segment and a fourth circumferential wall segment, the third circumferential wall segment being curved, the third circumferential wall segment intersecting the first plane and interconnecting the first wall segment and the second wall segment, the fourth circumferential wall segment being curved, the fourth circumferential wall segment intersecting the first plane and interconnecting the first wall segment and the second wall segment. The first circumferential wall segment and the second circumferential wall segment are arranged on opposite sides of the first plane. The third circumferential wall segment and the fourth circumferential wall segment are arranged on opposite sides of the second plane. The second circumferential wall segment includes a protruding section forming a protrusion.

[0079] The socket may have a socket width measured along the first plane (e.g., as the distance between points located on the third circumferential wall segment and the fourth circumferential wall segment and on the first plane). The ratio of the pin distance to the socket width may be at least 0.60, at least 0.61, or at least 0.62. The spacing of the pins reduces the risk of creep currents.

[0080] The third plane may be perpendicular to the first plane and the second plane.The third plane may include at least a portion of the bottom wall therein, or may be parallel to the bottom wall.

[0081] The first plane and the third plane may intersect the socket circumferential wall at a first intersection. The first plane and the third plane may also intersect the socket circumferential wall at a second intersection. The socket width may be the distance between the first intersection and the second intersection, and wherein the ratio of the pin distance to the socket width may be at least 0.60, at least 0.61, or at least 0.62. The spacing of the pins reduces the risk of creep currents.

[0082] The appliance and in particular its female connector may have any of the additional features described above.

[0083] The appliance may be a personal care appliance or other household appliance.

[0084] A power plug for an appliance includes a first connector sleeve and a second connector sleeve. The first connector sleeve has a first sleeve center axis. The second connector sleeve has a second sleeve center axis. The first sleeve center axis and the second sleeve center axis are spaced apart by a sleeve distance. The first sleeve center axis and the second sleeve center axis define a first plane. The second plane is perpendicular to the first plane and extends parallel to the first sleeve center axis and the second sleeve center axis and is equidistantly spaced apart from the first sleeve center axis and the second sleeve center axis. The power plug also includes an end surface in which a first pin insertion opening and a second pin insertion opening are arranged and a circumferential connector wall extending from the circumference of the end surface. The circumferential connector wall comprises a first circumferential connector wall segment, a second circumferential connector wall segment, a third circumferential connector wall segment and a fourth circumferential connector wall segment, the third circumferential connector wall segment being curved, the third circumferential connector wall segment intersecting the first plane and interconnecting the first circumferential connector wall segment and the second circumferential connector wall segment, and the fourth circumferential connector wall segment being curved, the fourth circumferential connector wall segment intersecting the first plane and interconnecting the first circumferential connector wall segment and the second circumferential connector wall segment. The first circumferential connector wall segment and the second circumferential connector wall segment are arranged on opposite sides of the first plane. The third circumferential connector wall segment and the fourth circumferential connector wall segment are arranged on opposite sides of the second plane. The second circumferential connector wall segment comprises a connector recess segment forming a connector recess. The end surface comprises a first end surface segment extending transversely to the first plane and the second plane. The first connector sleeve protrudes from the first end surface portion. The end surface comprises a second end surface segment extending transversely to the first plane and the second plane. The third plane is perpendicular to the first plane and the second plane. The first end surface segment and the second end surface segment may extend in the third plane. The third circumferential connector wall segment may have a radius of curvature. The ratio of the radius of curvature to the sleeve distance may be at most 0.35. The radius of curvature of the third circumferential connector wall segment may be a radius of curvature measured on a portion of the third circumferential connector wall segment closest to the third plane (e.g., located in the third plane).

[0085] A power plug having such a configuration provides a larger sleeve distance compared to the connector height (measured transversely to the first plane). A larger sleeve distance compared to the connector height reduces the risk of electrical creep currents. A smaller connector height compared to the sleeve distance reduces the amount of liquid that can be introduced into the female connector during use, which in turn also mitigates the risk of electrical creep.

[0086] The notch serves to prevent reverse polarity insertion into the socket of the appliance. The notch also mitigates the risk of using the power plug in association with an appliance having an ingress protection rating that is inconsistent with the ingress protection (IP) rating (IPC) of the power supply including the power plug and / or with an appliance that was not originally intended to be used on or with the power supply including the power plug.

[0087] The end surface may include a groove arranged between the first end surface segment and the second end surface segment.

[0088] The gutters are operable to provide drainage.

[0089] In the power plug, grooves can further assist in removing residual moisture.

[0090] The end surface may extend transversely to the first plane.

[0091] The first end surface section may comprise a first annular region transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the first plane.

[0092] The second end surface segment may comprise a second annular region transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the first plane.

[0093] The groove may be recessed compared to a plane in which the first annular region and the second annular region extend.

[0094] The groove may include a first inclined portion extending from the first annular region and a second inclined portion extending from the second annular region, wherein the first inclined portion and the second inclined portion are more strongly recessed from planes extending from the first annular region and the second annular region, respectively, as the distance from the first annular region and the second annular region increases.

[0095] The groove may be formed by a V-shaped or U-shaped depression in the end surface.

[0096] This type of structure facilitates the drainage of residual liquid.

[0097] The intersection of the end surface and the first plane may define a concave shape, wherein a portion of the end surface near the second plane is lower than a portion farther from the second plane (ie, farther from a plane defined by the first and second pin insertion openings).

[0098] The intersection of the end surface and the second plane may define a convex shape, wherein a portion of the end surface near the first plane is lower than a portion farther from the first plane (ie, farther from a plane defined by the first and second pin insertion openings).

[0099] This type of structure facilitates the drainage of residual liquid.

[0100] The power plug is operable to engage with a personal care appliance or other household appliance.Providing enhanced resistance to the adverse effects of residual moisture is particularly relevant for such devices.

[0101] The power plug is operable to engage with a personal care appliance, which is a hair removal, cutting or trimming device such as a razor, body grooming device, epilation device, etc. Providing enhanced resistance to the adverse effects of residual moisture is particularly relevant for such devices.

[0102] The power plug is operable to engage with a personal care appliance, which is an oral care device such as a toothbrush, tongue cleaning device or dental irrigation device. Providing enhanced resistance to the adverse effects of residual moisture is particularly relevant for such devices.

[0103] The third circumferential connector wall segment may include a first arc extending over a first angle of at least 170° about the first center axis.

[0104] The fourth circumferential connector wall segment may include a second arc extending over a second angle of at least 170° about the second center axis.

[0105] The third circumferential connector wall segment may be shaped as a frustoconical arc or a cylindrical segment extending over an angle of at least 170° around the first centre axis.

[0106] The fourth circumferential connector wall segment may be shaped as a frustoconical arc or a cylindrical segment extending over an angle of at least 170° around the second centre axis.

[0107] The power plug may have a plug connector width measured along the first plane (e.g., as the distance between points located on the third circumferential connector wall segment and the fourth circumferential connector wall segment and on the first plane). The ratio of the sleeve distance to the plug connector width may be at least 0.59, at least 0.60, at least 0.61, or at least 0.62. In a power plug having such a configuration, the sleeves are spaced farther apart than in conventional connector configurations, which reduces the risk of creep currents during use of the power plug.

[0108] The first plane and the third plane may intersect the circumferential connector wall at a first intersection point, and the first plane and the third plane may intersect the circumferential connector wall at a second intersection point. The plug connector width may be the distance between the first intersection point and the second intersection point. The ratio of the sleeve distance to the plug connector width may be at least 0.50, at least 0.55, at least 0.60, or at least 0.62. In a power plug having such a configuration, the sleeves are spaced farther apart than in conventional connector configurations, which reduces the risk of creep currents during use of the power plug.

[0109] The groove may extend continuously between the first circumferential connector wall segment and the second circumferential connector wall segment.

[0110] The groove may extend continuously from the first circumferential connector wall segment to the second circumferential connector wall segment.

[0111] The power plug may have a plug connector height measured along a plane parallel to the second plane and passing through the first central axis (e.g., as the distance between points located on the first circumferential connector wall segment and the second circumferential connector wall segment and on a plane parallel to the second plane and passing through the first central axis). The ratio of the plug connector height to the plug connector width may be at most 0.60, at most 0.55, at most 0.50, at most 0.45, or at most 0.40. Alternatively or additionally, the ratio of the plug connector height to the sleeve distance may be at most 0.60, at most 0.55, at most 0.50, at most 0.45, or at most 0.40. When the power plug has such a configuration, the plug connector height is relatively small compared to a conventional male connector. This further reduces the risk that residual liquid may be introduced into the socket of the appliance during use.

[0112] The intersection of the third circumferential connector wall segment and the fourth circumferential connector wall segment with the third plane may have a radius of curvature. More specifically, the intersection of the third circumferential wall segment and the fourth circumferential wall segment with the third plane has a line of curvature having a radius of curvature. The ratio of the radius of curvature to the width of the plug connector may be at most 0.20. When the plug has such a configuration, the plug height (which is approximately twice the radius of curvature of the third circumferential connector wall segment and the fourth circumferential connector wall segment) is relatively small compared to a conventional male connector. This further reduces the risk that residual liquid may be introduced into the socket of the appliance during use.

[0113] The first circumferential connector wall segment can have a shape that is different from the shape of the second circumferential connector wall segment. This achieves protection against insertion of a plug with reverse polarity.

[0114] The first circumferential connector wall section may be planar. This allows for ease of manufacture and ease of insertion of the plug.

[0115] The notch may have a notch width measured along the width direction of the plug connector (e.g., in the third plane). One or more of the following may apply: the ratio of the notch width to the plug connector width may be at least 0.60 or at least 0.61; the ratio of the notch width to the sleeve distance may be at least 0.50, at least 0.55, at least 0.60, at least 0.65, at least 0.70, at least 0.75, at least 0.80, at least 0.85, at least 0.90, or at least 0.95. When the connector has such a configuration, the notch width is relatively large compared to a conventional male connector. This further assists in reducing the risk of residual moisture being introduced into the appliance socket.

[0116] The second center axis may be offset from the first center axis along the width direction of the power plug connector. The notch segment may have a notch width measured along the width direction. The notch width may be determined as the distance along the width direction between the first notch segment end and the second notch segment end, where the second circumferential connector wall segment begins to bend inward relative to the plane interconnecting the end of the third circumferential connector wall segment and the end of the fourth circumferential connector wall segment. (For illustration, the notch width may be obtained by: determining an intersection curve of the second circumferential connector wall segment and the third plane; determining the end of the notch segment as the outermost point of the segment on the intersection curve, at which the intersection curve is spaced apart from the first plane by a distance less than the maximum distance as determined by the end of the third circumferential connector wall segment and the end of the fourth circumferential connector wall segment; the notch width has been determined as the distance between these outermost points defining the notch width). One or more of the following may apply: the ratio of the notch width to the plug connector width may be at least 0.60 or at least 0.61; the ratio of the notch width to the sleeve distance may be at least 0.50, at least 0.55, at least 0.60, at least 0.65, at least 0.70, at least 0.75, at least 0.80, at least 0.85, at least 0.90 or at least 0.95. When the socket has such a configuration, the notch width is relatively large compared to a conventional male connector. This further reduces the risk of electrical creep currents by increasing the distance between the pins that can engage with the connector sleeve.

[0117] The notch height can be measured by: determining the intersection line of the notch segment with the third plane; determining the maximum and minimum distances of the intersection line from the intersection line where the third plane intersects the first circumferential connector wall segment; and determining the notch height as the difference between the maximum distance and the minimum distance.

[0118] The power plug is operable to supply power having a low voltage in the range of 2 V to 18 V or 4 V to 12 V or 5 V. Compatibility of the power plug with voltages provided by, for example, USB type charging devices is thereby facilitated, thereby providing a platform of appliance connectors suitable for integration with charging devices operating at such voltage levels.

[0119] The radius of curvature of the fourth circumferential connector wall segment may be equal to the radius of curvature of the third circumferential connector wall segment.

[0120] The ratio of the radius of curvature to the sleeve distance may be at most 0.35 or at most 0.33.

[0121] The notch of the power plug may have a notch geometry selected from a set of notch geometries, each of the set of notch geometries being associated with a different IP rating.

[0122] The notch geometry of the plug may allow the plug to be inserted into an appliance having a socket protrusion geometry, as long as the socket protrusion geometry is assigned an IP rating equal to the IP rating of the power plug. The notch geometry of the plug may allow the plug to be inserted into an appliance having a socket protrusion geometry, as long as the socket protrusion geometry is assigned an IP rating less than the IP rating of the power plug.

[0123] The power plug may include a first plastic component including a circumferential connector wall and an end surface. The power plug may also include a second plastic component connected to an end of the first plastic component that may be opposite the end surface, the second plastic component being formed of a second plastic material, the first plastic material having a first hardness and the second plastic material having a second hardness different from the first hardness. This allows components required to mitigate the risk of reverse polarity insertion of the power plug to be formed of a harder material, while allowing components that may need to bend and deflect during use to be formed of a softer material.

[0124] A power plug according to another embodiment includes a first connector sleeve and a second connector sleeve. The first connector sleeve has a first sleeve center axis. The second connector sleeve has a second sleeve center axis. The first sleeve center axis and the second sleeve center axis are spaced apart by a sleeve distance. The first sleeve center axis and the second sleeve center axis define a first plane. The second plane is perpendicular to the first plane and extends parallel to the first sleeve center axis and the second sleeve center axis and is equidistantly spaced apart from the first sleeve center axis and the second sleeve center axis. The power plug also includes an end surface in which the first pin insertion opening and the second pin insertion opening are arranged and a circumferential connector wall extending from the circumference of the end surface. The circumferential connector wall comprises a first circumferential connector wall segment, a second circumferential connector wall segment, a third circumferential connector wall segment and a fourth circumferential connector wall segment, the third circumferential connector wall segment being curved, the third circumferential connector wall segment intersecting the first plane and interconnecting the first circumferential connector wall segment and the second circumferential connector wall segment, and the fourth circumferential connector wall segment being curved, the fourth circumferential connector wall segment intersecting the first plane and interconnecting the first circumferential connector wall segment and the second circumferential connector wall segment. The first circumferential connector wall segment and the second circumferential connector wall segment are arranged on opposite sides of the first plane. The third circumferential connector wall segment and the fourth circumferential connector wall segment are arranged on opposite sides of the second plane. The second circumferential connector wall segment comprises a connector recess segment forming a connector recess. The end surface comprises a first end surface segment extending transversely to the first plane and the second plane. The first connector sleeve protrudes from the first end surface portion. The end surface comprises a second end surface segment extending transversely to the first plane and the second plane.

[0125] The power plug may have a plug connector width measured along the first plane (e.g., as the distance between points located on the third circumferential connector wall segment and the fourth circumferential connector wall segment and on the first plane). The ratio of the sleeve distance to the plug connector width may be at least 0.59, at least 0.60, at least 0.61, or at least 0.62. The spacing of the sleeves reduces the risk of creep currents during use of the power plug.

[0126] The first plane and the third plane may intersect the circumferential connector wall at a first intersection point, and the first plane and the third plane may intersect the circumferential connector wall at a second intersection point. The plug connector width may be the distance between the first intersection point and the second intersection point. The ratio of the sleeve distance to the plug connector width may be at least 0.59, at least 0.60, at least 0.61, or at least 0.62. The spacing of the sleeve reduces the risk of creep currents during use of the power plug.

[0127] The power plug and in particular its plug connector may have any of the additional features mentioned above.

[0128] The power plug may be a power plug for a personal care appliance or other household appliance.

[0129] The first connector sleeve may be a first slotted sleeve operative to snap onto a first connector pin of the male connector.

[0130] The second connector sleeve may be a second slotted sleeve operative to snap onto the second connector pin of the male connector.

[0131] A power supply according to an embodiment comprises a power plug according to an embodiment. The power supply operates to reduce the risk of reverse polarity engagement of the power plug and the appliance. The power supply operates to mitigate the risk of electrical creep currents.

[0132] The power supply may comprise a converter. The power supply may be operable to perform voltage down conversion. This allows the personal care appliance to be supplied with power using a power supply which may be engaged with a mains socket.

[0133] The power supply device may be configured as a power supply line.

[0134] The power supply may include a stand operative to support an appliance (such as a personal care appliance) received thereon.

[0135] A kit according to an embodiment comprises a personal-care appliance according to an embodiment and a power supply comprising a power plug according to an embodiment, the power supply being operative to provide power to the personal-care appliance.

[0136] The socket and power plug may be configured such that when the power plug is operatively engaged with the socket, the socket circumferential wall is spaced apart from the circumferential connector wall by a gap. This further reduces the risk of adverse effects that may be caused by electrical creep currents.

[0137] The third circumferential wall segment may include or may be in the shape of a frustoconical or cylindrical segment extending over the first arc angle.

[0138] The third circumferential connector wall segment may include or may be another frustoconical or cylindrical segment shape extending over the second arc angle.

[0139] The second arc angle may be different from the first arc angle.

[0140] According to one embodiment, a kit includes: a first personal care appliance, which includes a first shell, the first shell having a first socket, the first socket having a first socket geometry structure selected from a group of two or more different socket geometries, each of which is assigned a different IP level among several ingress protection IP levels, and the first socket geometry structure is assigned a first IP level; and a power supply device, the power supply device includes a power plug, the power plug having a plug geometry structure selected from a group of two or more different plug geometries, each of which is assigned a different IP level among two or more IP levels.

[0141] The kit is operable to encode the IP rating in its socket geometry, thereby preventing the insertion of a plug that is incompatible with the IP rating of the appliance.

[0142] The first socket may be configured to allow insertion of a power plug when the plug geometry is assigned an IP rating equal to the first IP rating, to allow insertion of the power plug when the plug geometry is assigned an IP rating higher than the first IP rating, and to prevent insertion of the power plug when the plug geometry is assigned an IP rating lower than the first IP rating.

[0143] Thus, the first socket is operable to encode the IP rating in its first socket geometry, thereby preventing insertion of a plug that is incompatible with the IP rating of the appliance.

[0144] The power supply may be a first power supply and the power plug may be a first power plug having a first plug geometry assigned a first IP rating.

[0145] The kit may also include a second power supply including a second power plug having a second plug geometry selected from a set of two or more different plug geometries, the second plug geometry being assigned a second IP rating that is higher than the first IP rating.

[0146] The first socket may be shaped to allow insertion of a first power plug and to allow insertion of a second power plug.

[0147] Thus, the first socket geometry may ensure that the appliance can be used in association with a power supply designed to have at least the same IP rating as the appliance.

[0148] The kit may also include a second personal care appliance including a second housing having a second receptacle having a second receptacle geometry selected from a set of two or more different receptacle geometries, the second receptacle geometry being assigned a second IP rating.

[0149] The second socket may be shaped to prevent insertion of the first power plug and to allow insertion of the second power plug.

[0150] Thus, the second socket geometry may ensure that the appliance cannot be used in association with a power supply designed to have a lower IP rating than the appliance.

[0151] The first personal care appliance may be a first personal care appliance according to an embodiment and / or the mains plug may be a mains plug according to an embodiment.

[0152] The method according to one embodiment is performed using a first personal care appliance, the first personal care appliance comprising a first housing having a first socket having a first socket geometry selected from a group of two or more different socket geometries, each of which is assigned a different IP rating in a plurality of IP ratings of protection. The method comprises using a protrusion of the first socket geometry to selectively allow insertion of a power plug and selectively prevent insertion of other power plugs according to the IP rating of the power plug.

[0153] The first socket geometry may be assigned a first IP rating.

[0154] The method may also use a power supply device including a power plug having a plug geometry selected from a set of two or more different plug geometries, each of which is assigned a different IP rating of two or more IP ratings. The method may include allowing the power plug to be inserted into the socket by the protrusion if the power plug is assigned an IP rating compatible with the IP rating of the appliance. The method may include preventing the power plug from being inserted into the socket by the protrusion if the power plug is assigned an IP rating compatible with the IP rating of the appliance.

[0155] The method may include encoding the IP rating in its socket geometry, thereby preventing insertion of a plug that is incompatible with the IP rating of the appliance.

[0156] The first socket may be configured to allow insertion of a power plug when the plug geometry is assigned an IP rating equal to the first IP rating, to allow insertion of the power plug when the plug geometry is assigned an IP rating higher than the first IP rating, and to prevent insertion of the power plug when the plug geometry is assigned an IP rating lower than the first IP rating.

[0157] The socket is thus operable to encode the IP rating in its first socket geometry, thereby preventing insertion of a plug that is incompatible with the IP rating of the appliance.

[0158] The power supply may be a first power supply and the power plug may be a first power plug having a first plug geometry assigned a first IP rating.

[0159] The method may further include using a second power supply including a second power plug having a second plug geometry selected from a set of two or more different plug geometries, the second plug geometry being assigned a second IP rating that is higher than the first IP rating.

[0160] The method may include allowing insertion of a first power plug and insertion of a second power plug through a first receptacle.

[0161] The socket geometry may therefore ensure that the appliance can be used in association with a power supply designed to have at least the same IP rating as the appliance.

[0162] The method may include using a second personal care appliance comprising a second housing having a second receptacle having a second receptacle geometry selected from a set of two or more different receptacle geometries, the second receptacle geometry being assigned a second IP rating.

[0163] The second socket may be shaped to prevent insertion of the first power plug and to allow insertion of the second power plug.

[0164] The socket geometry may therefore ensure that the appliance cannot be used in association with a power supply designed to have a lower IP rating than the appliance.

[0165] The first personal care appliance may be a first personal care appliance according to an embodiment and / or the mains plug may be a mains plug according to an embodiment.

[0166] The method may be one that uses protrusion and / or recess geometry to enforce consistency of IP ratings of power supplies and appliances.

[0167] Figure 1 A kit 10 is shown. The kit 10 comprises one or several personal care appliances and one or several power supply devices. Figure 1 , a kit 10 including a razor 11, a toothbrush 12, and first, second and third power supply devices 40 is shown. The first appliance 11, 12 and the first power supply device 40 and their corresponding housings can support a specific first IP watertightness standard and are correspondingly waterproof and sealed. The second appliance 11, 12 and the second power supply device 40 and their corresponding housings can support a specific second IP watertightness standard and are correspondingly waterproof and sealed. The third appliance 11, 12 and the third power supply device 40 and their corresponding housings can support a specific third IP watertightness standard and are correspondingly waterproof and sealed. The IP standard of the third kit so formed can be the lowest. The IP standard of the second kit so formed can be the highest. The second kit has an IP standard between the first and second.

[0168] The appliances 11, 12 may be personal care appliances. The appliances 11, 12 may be selected from a group including devices for hair removal, cutting or trimming (such as razors, body beautifiers, etc.) and oral care devices (such as toothbrushes, oral irrigators, tongue cleaners, etc.). Each personal care appliance 11, 12 may include a housing 20, 30, respectively. The housing 20, 30 may include a connector, respectively. The connector may be configured as a female connector. The connector may include a socket 21, 31 and at least two electrical contacts (such as pins), which may extend at least partially into the socket.

[0169] The power supply device 40 may include a power plug 43, which is operative to engage with a connector of at least one of the appliances 11, 12. The power plug 43 may be a male connector. The power plug 43 may include a connector operative to be inserted into the sockets 21, 31. The power plug may include at least two electrical contacts (such as sleeves) that are operative to be in conductive abutment with electrical contacts extending in the sockets 21, 31 as long as the sockets 21, 31 provide for the insertion of the corresponding plug 43.

[0170] The power supply 40 may be a power cord having a connector 41 for engaging with a mains socket at one end and engaging with a power plug 43 at the other end. A cable 42 having two or more conductors may extend to the power plug 43. The power supply 40 may include at least one converter that operates to perform voltage down conversion. The converter may be operable to convert a gate voltage of, for example, 110V or 230V to a lower power supply voltage, for example a low voltage, such as a voltage in a range between 2V and 18V; a voltage in a range between 4V and 12V, or a voltage of 5V or 12V.

[0171] Alternatively or additionally, the power supply device 40 may include a bracket on which the appliances 11, 12 may be received. A power plug 43 may be arranged on the bracket or integrated with the bracket, so that the power plug 43 can provide power to the appliance positioned on the bracket.

[0172] The following will refer to Figures 2 to 24 The geometrical features of the connector of the appliance and / or of the power plug which can be inserted into the appliance are described in more detail.

[0173] The connectors of the appliance and / or power supply may be designed to provide any one or any combination of a variety of effects.

[0174] The connectors of the appliance and / or power supply device may be designed to mitigate the risk of electrical creep currents. This in turn increases the life of the device. This may be achieved using various techniques that may be used alone or in combination, including providing geometric features that increase the electrical creep distance and / or reduce the risk of water accumulation in the socket of the appliance.

[0175] Alternatively or additionally, the connector of the appliance and / or power supply device can be designed to provide a platform for combining the appliance and the power supply device. The geometric features of the connector of the appliance and / or power supply device can be implemented in a manner that the male connector geometry is operable to engage with several female connector geometries. Different male connector geometries can be associated with certain power supply device characteristics, such as different ingress protection (IP) ratings (IPC). Different female connector geometries can be associated with certain appliance characteristics, such as different ingress protection (IP) ratings (IPC). The geometry can be implemented in such a way that at least one male connector type can be inserted into each of the female connector types; and / or at least one other type of male connector can be inserted into at least one female connector type while being prevented from being inserted into at least another female connector type; and / or at least one other male connector type can be inserted into only one female connector type while being prevented from being inserted into at least another female connector type. The platform provides versatility in the following sense: the power plug of a power supply device with, for example, a high IPC can be used not only for appliances of the same IPC, but also for appliances with lower IPCs.

[0176] Different connector geometries (both male and female connectors) may be achieved by protrusions and / or recesses of various sizes, shapes, and / or locations.

[0177] The protrusions and / or recesses may also prevent undesired reverse polarity mating of the male and female connectors, which may adversely affect the appliance.

[0178] Figure 2 and Figure 3 Detailed drawings of the appliance and the power plug respectively. Figure 2 An end of a housing 20 of an appliance is shown including a socket 21. The socket 21 has a protrusion. Additional features that may be implemented in the socket 21 are described below. Figure 3 A perspective view of a power plug 43 is shown. The power plug 43 includes a connector 44. The connector 44 has a notch. Additional features that may be implemented in the power plug 43 are described below.

[0179] Figure 4 and Figure 5 A female connector 50 of an appliance is shown. The female connector has a first socket geometry. Figure 4 A plan view is shown. Figure 5 A cross-sectional view is shown.

[0180] The female connector 50 comprises a socket 60 formed in or by the housing of the appliance. The socket 60 is defined by a socket bottom wall 70 and a socket circumferential wall 80.

[0181] The socket 60 has a socket cavity 63. The socket cavity 63 operates to receive a plug connector. The socket cavity 63 can be operated to receive a plug connector having one, two, or more than two predefined plug connector geometries. The socket 60 has a socket insertion opening 64 through which the plug connector can be inserted into the socket cavity 63. The socket insertion opening 64 can be surrounded by a circumferential rim 62.

[0182] The socket cavity 63 may be defined by or otherwise provided with a socket bottom wall 70 and a socket circumferential wall 80 .

[0183] The socket bottom wall 70 may include a first bottom wall section 71 and a second bottom wall section 72. The first bottom wall section 71 and the second bottom wall section 72 may be coplanar. The first bottom wall section 71 and the second bottom wall section 72 may extend in a socket bottom plane 103 (also referred to herein as a third plane 103). The socket bottom wall 70 may also include a rib 73, which will be described in more detail below. The rib 73 may extend from the socket bottom plane 103 toward the socket insertion opening 64.

[0184] The socket circumferential wall 80 may include a first circumferential wall segment 81, a second circumferential wall segment 82, a third circumferential wall segment 83, and a fourth circumferential wall segment 84, wherein the third circumferential wall segment is curved, intersects with the first plane 101 and interconnects the first wall segment 81 and the second wall segment 82, and the fourth circumferential wall segment is curved, intersects with the first plane 101 and interconnects the first wall segment 81 and the second wall segment 82. The socket circumferential wall may be composed of the first circumferential wall segment 81 to the fourth circumferential wall segment 84.

[0185] The first circumferential wall segment 81 and the second circumferential wall segment 82 may be arranged to face each other.The first circumferential wall segment 81 and the second circumferential wall segment 82 may be arranged on a relatively longer side of the socket (the longer side is also referred to herein and in the art as a width direction).

[0186] The first circumferential wall segment 81 and the second circumferential wall segment 82 may have different shapes, as will be explained in more detail below. The second circumferential wall segment 82 may include the protrusion 61. The first circumferential wall segment 81 may be free of protrusions. The first circumferential wall segment 81 may be planar.

[0187] The third circumferential wall segment 83 and the fourth circumferential wall segment 84 can be arranged to face each other. The third circumferential wall segment 83 and the fourth circumferential wall segment 84 can be arranged on the relatively short side of the socket (the shorter side is also referred to as the height direction in this article and in the art). The third circumferential wall segment 83 and the fourth circumferential wall segment 84 can be bent from the first circumferential wall segment 81 to the second circumferential wall segment 82. The intersection of the third circumferential wall segment 83 and the fourth circumferential wall segment 84 and the plane (especially any plane) perpendicular to the first center axis 51 and intersecting with the third circumferential wall segment 83 and the fourth circumferential wall segment 84 can be an elliptical arc, such as a semicircle or other elliptical arc. Alternatively or additionally, the intersection of the third circumferential wall segment 83 and the fourth circumferential wall segment 84 and the plane (especially any plane) perpendicular to the socket bottom plane 103 and intersecting with the third circumferential wall segment 83 and the fourth circumferential wall segment 84 can be a straight line. The third circumferential wall segment 83 and the fourth circumferential wall segment 84 may be shaped as cylindrical segments or conical segments, but are not limited thereto.

[0188] The third circumferential wall segment 83 may have a shape corresponding to an angled segment (or arc) of a frustoconical or cylindrical surface (as seen from the inside). The frustoconical or cylindrical arc segment may extend over an angle 129. The angle 129 may be at least 170°.

[0189] The fourth circumferential wall segment 84 may have a shape corresponding to an angled segment (or arc) of a frustoconical surface or a cylindrical surface (as seen from the inside). The frustoconical or cylindrical arc segment may extend over an angle 129. The angle 129 may be at least 170°. The angles 129 over which the third circumferential wall segment 83 and the fourth circumferential wall segment 84 extend may be equal to each other, but are not limited thereto.

[0190] The first to fourth circumferential wall segments 81 to 84 may each extend from a root at the bottom wall portion 70 to a free end. The free end may define a circumferential edge 62 around the socket insertion opening 62.

[0191] The first circumferential wall segment 81 may transition into the third circumferential wall segment 83 along a line that may extend from a root at the bottom wall portion 70 to a free end at the circumferential edge 62. The intersection of the transition line with the third plane 103 is at Figure 4 Shown in the middle is point 91.

[0192] The third circumferential wall segment 83 may transition into the second circumferential wall segment 82 along a line that may extend from a root at the bottom wall portion 70 to a free end at the circumferential edge 62. The intersection of the transition line with the third plane 103 is at Figure 4 It is shown as point 92 in the middle.

[0193] The second circumferential wall segment 82 may transition into the fourth circumferential wall segment 84 along a line that may extend from a root at the bottom wall portion 70 to a free end at the circumferential edge 62. The intersection of the transition line with the third plane 103 is at Figure 4 Shown in the middle is point 93.

[0194] The fourth circumferential wall segment 84 may transition into the first circumferential wall segment 81 along a line that may extend from a root at the bottom wall portion 70 to a free end at the circumferential edge 62. The intersection of the transition line with the third plane 103 is at Figure 4 It is shown as point 94 in the middle.

[0195] The female connector 50 includes a first connector pin 51 and a second connector pin 52. At least a portion of the first connector pin 51 and at least a portion of the second connector pin 52 extend within the cavity 63 of the socket. The first connector pin 51 has a first center axis 53. The second connector pin 52 has a second center axis 54. The first center axis 53 and the second center axis 54 are separated by a pin distance 121.

[0196] The first connector pin 51 and the second connector pin 52 are formed of a conductive material. The first connector pin 51 and the second connector pin 52 may be metal connector pins.

[0197] The first center axis 53 and the second center axis 54 may be parallel to each other. The first center axis 53 and the second center axis 54 may define a first plane 101 in which the first center axis 53 and the second center axis 54 extend.

[0198] The second plane 102 is perpendicular to the first plane 101. The second plane 102 may extend parallel to the first center axis 53 and the second center axis 54. The second plane 102 may be equidistantly spaced from the first center axis 53 and the second center axis 54.

[0199] The first circumferential wall segment 81 and the second circumferential wall segment 82 may be arranged on opposite sides relative to the first plane 101 .

[0200] The third circumferential wall segment 83 and the fourth circumferential wall segment 84 may be arranged on opposite sides relative to the second plane 102 .

[0201] The socket may have a socket width 122. The socket width may correspond to the maximum extension of the socket along the longer of the two axes of the socket, as seen in plan view. The socket width 122 may be determined as the spacing between the first intersection point 95 and the second intersection point 96 where both the first plane 101 and the third plane 103 intersect the third circumferential wall segment 83 and the fourth circumferential wall segment 84.

[0202] The socket may have a socket height 123. The socket height may correspond to the maximum extension of the socket along the shorter of the two axes of the socket, as seen in plan view. The socket height 123 may be determined using any of the following techniques:

[0203] - Determine the intersection line 111 of the first circumferential wall 81 and the third plane 103; determine the points 92, 93 of the intersection of the circumferential wall and the third plane 103 that have the maximum distance from the intersection line 111; determine the distance of the points 92, 93 from the intersection line 111 as the socket height 123.

[0204] - Determine the intersection line 111 of the first circumferential wall 81 and the third plane 103; determine the points 92, 93 at which the third circumferential wall segment 83 and the fourth circumferential wall segment 84 transition to the second circumferential wall segment 82 in the intersection in the third plane 103; determine the maximum distance of the two distances between the points 92, 93 and the intersection line 111 as the socket height 123.

[0205] - determining the points 91 , 92 as the intersection of the first plane 101 , a plane parallel to the second plane 102 and passing through the first center axis 53 , and the circumferential socket wall 70 ; and determining the socket height 123 as the distance between these points 91 , 92 ;

[0206] - determining the points 93, 94 as the intersection of the first plane 101, a plane parallel to the second plane 102 and passing through the second center axis 54, and the circumferential socket wall 70; and determining the socket height 123 as the distance between these points 93, 94;

[0207] The curvature radius 105 of the intersection of the third circumferential wall 83 or the fourth circumferential wall 84 and the third plane is determined; and the insertion opening height is determined to be twice the curvature radius 105 .

[0208] The ratio of the radius of curvature 105 to the pin distance 121 is at most 0.35. By maintaining the ratio of the radius of curvature to the pin distance at most 0.35, the risk of electrical creep can be reduced. The electrical creep resistance is increased by spacing the connector pins apart by a pin distance that is sufficiently large compared to the radius of curvature, so that the ratio of the radius of curvature to the pin distance is at most 0.35.

[0209] As will be described in more detail below, the second circumferential wall segment 82 may have a protruding section 85. The protruding section 85 forms a protrusion 61 in the socket 60. As seen in plan view (see Figure 4), the protrusion 61 provides a reduction in the height of the socket measured along the second plane 102. At the protrusion 61, the second circumferential wall segment 82 protrudes toward the first circumferential wall segment 81. For illustration, in any plane that is coincident with or parallel to the third plane 103 and intersects the circumferential wall segments, the protrusion 61 may protrude toward the first circumferential wall segment 81 compared to the points 92, 93 on the second circumferential wall segment 82 that are spaced apart from the first circumferential wall segment 81 by a maximum distance.

[0210] The protrusion 61 causes the socket 60 to have a reduced socket height 125 at the protrusion 61. The reduced socket height 125 at the protrusion 61 can be determined by: determining an intersection line 111 of the first circumferential wall 81 and the third plane 103; determining another intersection line of the second circumferential wall 82 and the third plane 103; and determining the reduced socket height 125 at the protrusion 61 as the minimum distance from any point on the other intersection line to the intersection line 111 measured perpendicular to the intersection line 111.

[0211] The protrusion 61 has a protrusion height 126. The protrusion height 126 indicates how far the protrusion protrudes toward the first circumferential wall segment 81. The protrusion height 126 can be determined as the socket height 123 minus the reduced socket height 125 at the protrusion 61.

[0212] The protrusion 61 may extend from the socket bottom wall 70 to the circumferential edge 62. The protrusion 61 may extend from the socket bottom wall 70 to the circumferential edge 62 continuously.

[0213] The first connector pin 51 protrudes from the first bottom wall section 71. The second connector pin 52 protrudes from the second bottom wall section 72. The rib 73 may be disposed between the first bottom wall section 71 and the second bottom wall section 72. The rib 73 may protrude from at least one (preferably both) of the first bottom wall section 71 and the second bottom wall section 72. The rib 73 may protrude from the socket bottom plane 103 toward the socket insertion opening 64.

[0214] The rib 73 may extend from the first circumferential wall segment 81 to the second circumferential wall segment 82. The rib 73 may extend continuously from the first circumferential wall segment 81 to the second circumferential wall segment 82. The rib 73 may have a substantially constant cross-section as it extends from the first circumferential wall segment 81 to the second circumferential wall segment 82 along the second plane 102. Alternatively, the cross-section of the rib 73 may vary and / or the rib 73 need not extend all the way between the first circumferential wall segment 81 and the second circumferential wall segment 82.

[0215] The effect of the ribs 73 is that they increase the electrical creep distance through any fluid that may be left in the socket 60. The electrical resistance is thereby increased, and electrical creep is reduced. Additionally adverse effects caused by electrical creep currents, such as the risk of electrolysis, are mitigated.

[0216] The protrusion 61 can also be operated to provide various effects. The protrusion 61 reduces the height of the socket in the central area between the first connector pin 51 and the second connector pin 52, which can also help to increase electrical creep resistance and / or reduce electrical creep. The protrusion 61 can provide protection against reverse polarity insertion of the power plug. The protrusion 61 can be operated to limit which power plug can be inserted into the socket 60 by means of its geometric structure (such as size and position). Therefore, the protrusion 61 can be operated to allow a power plug with characteristics consistent with the characteristics of the appliance (such as IP characteristics) to be inserted into the socket, and / or prevent a power plug with characteristics inconsistent with the characteristics of the appliance (such as IP characteristics) from being inserted into the socket.

[0217] The socket 60 may have geometric features that facilitate enhanced performance by mitigating the risk of electrical creep and / or mitigating the risk of inserting an inappropriate power plug.

[0218] The ratio of the pin distance 121 to the socket width 122 may be at least 0.60, at least 0.61, or at least 0.62. In a socket having such a configuration, the connector pins 51, 52 are relatively far apart, which further reduces the risk of creep currents compared to conventional connector configurations.

[0219] The ratio of the socket height 123 to the socket width 122 may be at most 0.60, at most 0.55, at most 0.50, at most 0.45, or at most 0.40. The ratio of the socket height 123 to the pin distance 121 may be at most 0.76, at most 0.70, at most 0.65, at most 0.60, at most 0.55, at most 0.50, at most 0.45, or at most 0.40. When the socket 60 has such a configuration, the risk of creep current is further reduced. It is convenient to place the screw head or bolt head adjacent to the socket 60 and outside the socket, as will be described later, which further reduces the risk of creep current.

[0220] The ratio of the radius of curvature 105 of the third circumferential wall segment 83 and / or the fourth circumferential wall segment 84 to the socket width 122 may be at most 0.20. Alternatively or additionally, the ratio of the radius of curvature 105 to the pin distance 121 may be at most 0.35 or at most 0.33. Such a configuration further reduces the risk of creep currents and allows the screw head or bolt head to be positioned apart from and adjacent to the socket, as will be described later, which further reduces the risk of creep currents.

[0221] The distance 127 between the first connector pin 51 or the second connector pin 52 and the third circumferential wall segment 83 or the fourth circumferential wall segment 84 extending around the first center axis 53 and the second center axis 54, respectively, may be less than 2.0 mm, less than 1.9 mm, less than 1.8 mm, less than 1.7 mm, less than 1.6 mm, less than 1.5 mm, less than 1.4 mm, less than 1.3 mm, less than 1.2 mm, or less than 1.1 mm. Alternatively or additionally, the ratio of the pin distance 121 to the distance 127 between the connector pin and the third / fourth circumferential wall segment may be at least 4, at least 5, at least 6, or at least 7. The small spacing between the connector pins 51, 52 and the third circumferential wall segment 83 / fourth circumferential wall segment 84 allows the pins to be spaced far apart, thereby reducing the risk of electrical creep currents.

[0222] The protrusion 61 may have a protrusion width 124 measured along the width direction of the socket 60 (e.g., in the third plane 103). The protrusion width 124 may be determined as the distance along the width direction between the first protrusion segment end 92 and the second protrusion segment end 93 where the second circumferential wall segment 82 begins to bend inward relative to the plane 112 interconnecting the ends of the third circumferential wall segment 83 and the fourth circumferential wall segment 84. For illustration, the protrusion width 124 can be obtained by: determining the intersection curve of the second circumferential wall segment 82 and the third plane 103; determining the ends 92, 93 of the protrusion segment 85 as the outermost points of the segment on the intersection curve, at which the distance between the intersection curve and the first plane is less than the maximum distance 123 as determined by the ends of the third circumferential wall segment 83 and the ends of the fourth circumferential wall segment 84; and determining the protrusion width 124 as the distance between these outermost points 93, 94 that define the protrusion width. The ratio of the protrusion width 124 to the socket width 122 can be at least 0.60 or at least 0.61. When the socket has such a configuration, the protrusion width 124 is relatively large. The constriction formed in the bottom wall by such a wide protrusion can further reduce the risk of electrolysis by reducing the risk of electrical creep.

[0223] The ratio of the protrusion height 126 to the radius of curvature 105 of the third circumferential wall segment 83 and the fourth circumferential wall segment 84 may be at least 0.50, at least 0.55, at least 0.60, at least 0.65, at least 0.70, at least 0.75, at least 0.80, at least 0.85, at least 0.90 or at least 0.95. Alternatively or additionally, the ratio of the protrusion height 126 to the socket height 123 may be at least 0.15, at least 0.20 or at least 0.25. When the socket has such a configuration, the protrusion height 126 is relatively large compared to conventional female connectors. A large protrusion height 126 facilitates a configuration in which a screw head or bolt head can be positioned to be separated from and adjacent to the socket, which further reduces the risk of electrical creep and electrolysis.

[0224] Figures 6 to 12 A power plug 150 is shown. The power plug 150 is operable to be plugged into the socket 50. Figure 6 A plan view of a power plug is shown. Figure 7 A cross-sectional view is shown. Figure 8 A partial perspective view is shown. Fig. 9 A partial plan side view is shown. Fig.10 An exploded view is shown. Fig.11 A cross-sectional view is shown. Fig.12 A plan side view is shown.

[0225] The power plug 150 includes a male connector 160. The male connector 160 is operable to be inserted into a mating socket (such as the socket 50) of an appliance.

[0226] The power plug 150 and more specifically the male connector 160 may include a first connector sleeve 151 and a second connector sleeve 152. The first connector sleeve 151 and the second connector sleeve 152 are operable to receive the connector pins 52, 51 therein. The first connector sleeve 151 and the second connector sleeve 152 are formed of a conductive material. The first connector sleeve 151 and the second connector sleeve 152 may be metal sleeves.

[0227] The first connector sleeve 151 has a first sleeve center axis 153. The second connector sleeve 152 has a second sleeve center axis 154. The first sleeve center axis 153 and the second sleeve center axis 154 can be parallel to each other. The first sleeve center axis 153 and the second sleeve center axis 154 can be separated by a sleeve distance 221. The first sleeve center axis 153 and the second sleeve center axis 154 can define a first plane 201. When the male connector 160 is inserted into the socket, the first plane 201 of the power plug can coincide with the first plane 101 of the appliance socket.

[0228] The second plane 202 may be perpendicular to the first plane 201. The second plane 202 may extend parallel to the first sleeve center axis 153 and the second sleeve center axis 154. The second plane 202 may be equidistantly spaced from the first sleeve center axis 153 and the second sleeve center axis 154. When the male connector 160 is inserted into the socket, the second plane 202 of the power plug may coincide with the second plane 102 of the appliance socket.

[0229] The end surface 170 may include a first end surface segment 171 extending transversely (eg, perpendicularly) to the first plane 201 and the second plane 202. The first end surface segment 171 may include a first connector pin insertion opening 174.

[0230] The end surface 170 may include a second end surface section 172 extending transversely to the first plane 201 and the second plane 202. The second end surface section may include a second connector pin insertion opening 175.

[0231] The first end surface section 171 and the second end surface section 172 may be planar. The first end surface section 171 and the second end surface section 172 may have an annular shape extending around the first pin insertion opening 174 and the second pin insertion opening 175, respectively.

[0232] The end surface 170 may include a groove segment extending from the first end surface segment 171 to the second end surface segment 172 and defining a groove 173. The groove 173 is arranged on the end surface 170 and between the first end surface segment 171 and the second end surface segment 172.

[0233] The power plug 150 may also include a circumferential connector wall 180 that may extend from the circumference of the end surface 170 .

[0234] The circumferential connector wall 180 may include a first circumferential connector wall segment 181, a second circumferential connector wall segment 182, a third circumferential connector wall segment 183 and a fourth circumferential connector wall segment 184, wherein the third circumferential connector wall segment is curved, intersects with the first plane 201 and interconnects the first circumferential connector wall segment 181 and the second circumferential connector wall segment 182, and the fourth circumferential connector wall segment is curved, intersects with the first plane 201 and interconnects the first circumferential connector wall segment 181 and the second circumferential connector wall segment 182.

[0235] The first circumferential connector wall segment 181 and the second circumferential connector wall segment 182 may be arranged to face each other. The first circumferential connector wall segment 181 and the second circumferential connector wall segment 182 may be arranged on relatively longer sides of the socket (the longer sides are also referred to herein and in the art as width directions).

[0236] The first circumferential connector wall segment 181 and the second circumferential connector wall segment 182 may have different shapes, as will be explained in more detail below. The second circumferential wall segment 182 may include the notch 161. The first circumferential wall segment 181 may be free of a notch. The first circumferential wall segment 181 may be planar.

[0237] The third circumferential connector wall segment 183 and the fourth circumferential connector wall segment 184 may be arranged to face each other. The third circumferential connector wall segment 183 and the fourth circumferential connector wall segment 184 may be arranged on a relatively shorter side of the socket (the shorter side is also referred to as the height direction in this article and in the art). The third circumferential connector wall segment 183 and the fourth circumferential connector wall segment 184 may each bend from the first circumferential connector wall segment 181 to the second circumferential connector wall segment 182. The intersection of the third circumferential connector wall segment 183 and the fourth circumferential connector wall segment 184 with a plane (in particular with any plane) that is perpendicular to the first plane 201 and the second plane 202 and intersects the third circumferential connector wall segment 183 and the fourth circumferential connector wall segment 184 may be an arc of an ellipse, such as a semicircle or other elliptical arc. Alternatively or additionally, the intersection of the third circumferential connector wall segment 183 and the fourth circumferential connector wall segment 184 with a plane (in particular, any plane) parallel to the first plane 201 and the second plane 202 and intersecting the third circumferential connector wall segment 183 and the fourth circumferential connector wall segment 184 may be a straight line. The third circumferential connector wall segment 183 and the fourth circumferential connector wall segment 184 may be shaped as a cylindrical segment or a conical segment, but are not limited thereto. The third plane 203 may be a plane in which the first end surface segment 171 and the second end surface segment 172 are arranged. The portion of the third circumferential connector wall segment 183 and the fourth circumferential connector wall segment 184 closest to the third plane 203 (e.g., located in the third plane) may include an arc having a radius of curvature, as explained in more detail below.

[0238] The third circumferential connector wall segment 183 may have a shape corresponding to an angled segment (or arc) of a frustoconical or cylindrical surface. The frustoconical or cylindrical arc segment may extend over an angle 229. The angle 229 may be at least 170°.

[0239] The fourth circumferential wall segment 184 may have a shape corresponding to an angled segment (or arc) of a frustoconical surface or a cylindrical surface. The frustoconical or cylindrical arc segment may extend over an angle 229. The angle 229 may be at least 170°. The angles 229 over which the third circumferential connector wall segment 183 and the fourth circumferential connector wall segment 184 extend may be equal to each other, but are not limited thereto.

[0240] The angle 229 at which the third and fourth circumferential connector wall segments 183, 184 form a circular or elliptical arc may be different from the angle 129 at which the third and fourth circumferential wall segments 83, 84 of the mating female connector form a circular or elliptical arc.

[0241] The first to fourth circumferential connector wall segments 181 to 184 may each extend from a root at the circumferential edge 162 to a free end. The free end may be arranged at the end surface 170.

[0242] The first circumferential connector wall segment 181 may transition into the third circumferential connector wall segment 183 along a line that may extend from a root at the circumferential edge 162 to a free end at the end surface 170. The intersection of this transition line with the third plane 203 (which will be described in more detail below) is at Figure 6 Shown in the middle is point 191.

[0243] The third circumferential connector wall segment 183 may transition into the second circumferential connector wall segment 182 along a line that may extend from a root at the circumferential edge 162 to a free end at the end surface 170. The intersection of the transition line with the third plane 203 is at Figure 6 Shown in the middle is point 192.

[0244] The second circumferential connector wall segment 182 may transition into the fourth circumferential connector wall segment 184 along a line that may extend from a root at the circumferential edge 162 to a free end at the end surface 170. The intersection of the transition line with the third plane 203 is at Figure 6 Shown in the middle is point 193.

[0245] The fourth circumferential connector wall segment 184 may transition into the first circumferential connector wall segment 181 along a line that may extend from a root at the circumferential edge 162 to a free end at the end surface 170. The intersection of the transition line with the third plane 203 is at Figure 6 Shown in the middle is point 194.

[0246] The groove 173 in the end surface may extend along the second plane 202. The groove 173 may extend from the first circumferential connector wall 181 to the second circumferential connector wall 182. The groove section forming the groove 173 may be recessed compared to the plane in which the first and second end surface sections 171, 172 extend.

[0247] The intersection of the end surface 170 and the first plane 201 (eg Figure 7 162) may have a concave shape at the groove 173. In a cross section in the first plane 201, the point of the groove 173 closest to the plane in which the circumferential edge 162 extends may be located at or near the intersection of the second plane 202 and the end surface.

[0248] The intersection of the end surface 170 and the second plane 202 may have a planar or convex shape to facilitate liquid drainage.

[0249] The groove 173 may include a first inclined portion 176 extending from the first end surface segment 171 and a second inclined portion 177 extending from the second end surface segment 172. The first inclined portion 176 and the second inclined portion 177 may be more strongly recessed from a plane in which the first end surface segment 171 and the second end surface segment 172 are disposed as the distance from the first end surface segment 171 and the second end surface segment 172, respectively, increases.

[0250] The groove 173 may be formed by a V-shaped or U-shaped depression in the end surface 170 .

[0251] The grooves 173 are operable to provide drainage. The grooves 173 can assist in removing residual moisture.

[0252] The notch 161 is formed by the notch wall segment 185 of the second circumferential wall segment. The notch 161 operates to prevent reverse polarity insertion into the socket of the appliance. The notch 161 also mitigates the risk of using the power plug 150 in association with an appliance having an ingress protection rating that is inconsistent with the ingress protection (IP) rating (IPC) of the power supply device including the power plug 150 and / or with an appliance that was not originally intended to be used on or with the power supply device including the power plug 150.

[0253] The third plane 203 may extend perpendicularly to the first plane 201 and the second plane 202. The third plane 203 may be positioned such that the first end surface segment 171 and the second end surface segment 172 are arranged therein.

[0254] The power plug can have a plug connector width 222 measured along the first plane 201 (e.g., as the distance between points 195, 196 located on the third circumferential connector wall segment 183 and the fourth circumferential connector wall segment 184 and on the first plane 201). The ratio of the sleeve distance 221 to the plug connector width 222 can be at least 0.50, at least 0.55, at least 0.60, or at least 0.62. The sleeve spacing reduces the risk of creep currents during use of the power plug 150.

[0255] The first plane 201 and the third plane 203 may intersect the circumferential connector wall 180 at a first intersection point 195, and the first plane and the third plane may intersect the circumferential connector wall 180 at a second intersection point 196. The plug connector width 222 may be the distance between the first intersection point 195 and the second intersection point 196. The ratio of the sleeve distance 221 to the plug connector width 222 may be at least 0.50, at least 0.55, at least 0.60, or at least 0.62. The sleeve spacing reduces the risk of creep currents during use of the power plug 150.

[0256] If the third circumferential connector wall segment 183 and the fourth circumferential connector wall segment 184 are rounded toward the end surface 170 (eg Figure 7 310, 312 in the illustrations), the plug connector width 222 can be determined by

[0257] - determining the first intersection point 195 as the intersection point of the first tangent line 311 and the third plane 203, wherein the first tangent line 311 is tangential to the third circumferential connector wall 183 and lies in the first plane 201;

[0258] - determining the second intersection point 196 as the intersection point of the second tangent line 313 and the third plane 203, wherein the second tangent line 313 is tangential to the fourth circumferential connector wall 184 and lies in the first plane 201; and

[0259] The plug connector width 222 is determined as the distance between the first intersection point 195 and the second intersection point 196 .

[0260] The power plug 150 may have a plug connector height 223. The plug connector height 223 may correspond to the maximum extension of the plug connector along the shorter of the two axes of the plug connector, as seen in plan view. The plug connector height 223 may be determined using any of the following techniques:

[0261] - Determine the intersection line 211 of the first circumferential connector wall 180 and the third plane 203; determine the points 192, 193 of the intersection of the circumferential connector wall 180 and the third plane 203 having the maximum distance from the intersection line 211; determine the distance of the points 192, 193 from the intersection line 211 as the plug connector height 223.

[0262] - Determine the intersection line 211 of the first circumferential connector wall 181 and the third plane 203; determine the points 192, 193 at which the third circumferential wall segment 183 and the fourth circumferential wall segment 184 transition to the second circumferential wall segment 182 in the intersection in the third plane 203; determine the maximum distance of the two distances between the points 192, 193 and the intersection line 211 as the plug connector height 223.

[0263] - determining the points 191, 192 as the intersection of the first plane 201, a plane parallel to the second plane 202 and passing through the first center axis 153, and the circumferential connector wall 70; and determining the plug connector height 223 as the distance between these points 191, 192;

[0264] - determining the points 193, 194 as the intersection of the first plane 201, a plane parallel to the second plane 202 and passing through the second center axis 154, and the circumferential connector wall 70; and determining the plug connector height 223 as the distance between these points 193, 194;

[0265] determining a radius of curvature 205 of an intersection of the third circumferential connector wall 183 or the fourth circumferential connector wall 184 with the third plane 203 ; and determining the plug connector height 223 to be twice the radius of curvature 205 .

[0266] The ratio of the radius of curvature 205 to the sleeve distance 221 may be at most 0.35. A larger sleeve distance 221 than the radius of curvature 205 (which indicates the connector height) reduces the risk of electrical creep currents. A smaller radius of curvature 205 than the sleeve distance 221 (which indicates the connector height) reduces the amount of liquid that can be introduced into the female connector during use, which in turn also mitigates the risk of electrical creep.

[0267] As mentioned above, the second circumferential connector wall section 182 may have a notch section 185. The notch section 185 forms a notch 161 on the outer surface of the power plug 150. As seen in plan view (see Figure 6 ), the notch 161 provides a reduction in the height of the socket measured along the second plane 202. At the notch 161, the second circumferential connector wall segment 182 protrudes toward the first circumferential connector wall segment 181. For illustration, in any plane that is coincident with or parallel to the third plane 203 and intersects the circumferential connector wall segments, the notch 161 may protrude toward the first circumferential connector wall segment 181 compared to the points 192, 193 on the second circumferential connector wall segment 182 that are spaced apart from the first circumferential connector wall segment 181 by a maximum distance.

[0268] The recess 161 causes the plug connector 160 to have a reduced plug connector height 225 at the recess 161. The reduced plug connector height 225 at the recess 161 can be determined by: determining an intersection line 221 of the first circumferential connector wall 181 and the third plane 203; determining another intersection line 221 of the second circumferential connector wall 182 and the third plane 203; and determining the reduced plug height 225 at the recess 161 as the minimum distance from any point on the other intersection line to the intersection line 221 measured perpendicular to the intersection line 221.

[0269] The notch 161 has a notch height 226. The notch height 226 indicates how far the notch protrudes toward the first circumferential connector wall segment 181. The notch height 226 may be determined as the socket height 223 minus the reduced socket height 225 at the notch 161.

[0270] The notch 161 has a notch width 224. The notch width 224 can be measured along the width direction of the plug connector (e.g., in the third plane 203). The notch width 224 can be determined as the distance along the width direction between the first end and the second end of the notch segment 185, where the second circumferential connector wall segment 182 begins to bend inward relative to the plane 212 interconnecting the ends of the third circumferential connector wall segment 183 and the fourth circumferential connector wall segment 184. Alternatively, the notch width 224 can be obtained by: determining the intersection curve of the second circumferential connector wall segment 182 and the third plane 203; determining the end of the notch segment 185 as the outermost point of the segment on the intersection curve, at which outermost point the intersection curve is spaced apart from the first plane 201 by a distance less than a maximum distance as determined by the end of the third circumferential connector wall segment 183 and the end of the fourth circumferential connector wall segment 184; and determining the notch width 224 as the distance between these outermost points 192, 193 of the notch segments.

[0271] The notch 161 may extend from the circumferential edge 162 to the end surface 170. The notch 161 may extend continuously from the circumferential edge 162 to the end surface 170.

[0272] The first connector sleeve 151 may be recessed from the end surface 170. The second connector sleeve 152 may be recessed from the end surface 170.

[0273] The notch 161 can also operate to provide various effects. The notch 161 can provide protection against the reverse polarity insertion of the power plug 150 into the socket. The notch 161 can operate to limit the sockets into which the power plug 150 can be inserted by means of its geometric structure (such as size and position). Therefore, the notch 161 can operate to allow the power plug to be inserted into the socket of an appliance having characteristics (such as IP characteristics) consistent with the characteristics of the power supply device including the power plug, and / or prevent the power plug from being inserted into the socket of an appliance having characteristics (such as IP characteristics) inconsistent with the characteristics of the power supply device including the power plug.

[0274] The power plug 150 and in particular the connector 160 thereof may have geometric features that facilitate enhanced performance by mitigating the risk of electrical creep and / or mitigating the risk of insertion into an inappropriate receptacle.

[0275] The ratio of the plug connector height 123 to the plug connector width 122 may be at most 0.60, at most 0.55, at most 0.50, at most 0.45, or at most 0.40. Alternatively or additionally, the ratio of the plug connector height 123 to the sleeve distance 121 may be at most 0.60, at most 0.55, at most 0.50, at most 0.45, or at most 0.40. Such a power plug configuration further reduces the risk of undesired electrolysis during use.

[0276] The ratio of the radius of curvature 205 to the plug connector width 222 may be at most 0.20; the ratio of the radius of curvature to the pin distance may be at most 0.35 or at most 0.33. Such a power plug configuration further reduces the risk of undesired electrolysis during use.

[0277] The ratio of the notch width 224 to the sleeve distance 221 may be at least 0.50, at least 0.55, at least 0.60, at least 0.65, at least 0.70, at least 0.75, at least 0.80, at least 0.85, at least 0.90, or at least 0.95. Such a power plug configuration further reduces the risk of undesired electrolysis during use.

[0278] The ratio of the notch height 226 to the radius of curvature 205 may be at least 0.50, at least 0.55, at least 0.60, at least 0.65, at least 0.70, at least 0.75, at least 0.80, or at least 0.85. Alternatively or additionally, the ratio of the notch height 226 to the plug connector height 223 may be at least 0.15, at least 0.20, or at least 0.25. Such a power plug configuration further reduces the risk of undesired electrolysis during use.

[0279] like Fig.10 and Fig.11 As shown, the power plug 150 may include a first component 164 and a second component 165. The first component 164 may be a first plastic component. The second plastic component 165 may be a second plastic component. The first component 164 may provide a male connector 160, including an end surface 170 and a circumferential connector wall 180.

[0280] The second component 165 may form a bending protection.

[0281] The second component 165 may provide a connection to the power cable 167. The second component 165 may include a bend protection portion 166. In the bend protection portion 166, the second component 165 may extend around the jacket of the power cable 167 received therein. The bend protection portion 166 may be provided to be concave to increase flexibility (compared to a portion of the second component 165 where no concave portion is provided).

[0282] The first component 164 may be made of a more rigid material than the second component 165. The first component 164 may be made of a material having a first hardness (eg, determined as Shore A hardness), and the second component 165 may be made of a material having a second hardness (eg, determined as Shore A hardness).

[0283] The higher hardness of the first component 164 makes the second circumferential wall segment 182 defining the recess 161 less likely to deflect when inserted into a socket having a socket geometry type (particularly a protrusion geometry type) different from that of the power plug connector.

[0284] The base end of the first component 164 opposite the end surface 170 can have a reduced wall thickness portion 167. The reduced wall thickness portion 167 can be formed by a step feature in the first component 164. The reduced wall thickness portion 167 can extend circumferentially around the first component 164.

[0285] The second portion 165 may be overmolded over the reduced wall thickness portion 167 .

[0286] Fig.13 1 is a cross-sectional partial view showing the female connector 50 engaged with the male connector 150. The first connector pin 51 is received in the second connector sleeve 152. The second connector pin 52 is received in the first connector sleeve 151.

[0287] The plug connector of the power plug 150 and the socket of the appliance are sized and shaped so that in the engaged state, the (outer) circumferential connector wall 180 of the power plug 150 is spaced from the (inner) circumferential wall 80 of the socket by a gap 230. The gap 230 may be a circumferential gap extending completely along the (outer) circumferential connector wall 180 of the power plug 150, spaced from the (inner) circumferential wall 80 of the socket.

[0288] Alternatively or additionally, the socket bottom wall 70 may remain spaced apart from the end surface 170 in the engaged state. This facilitates the removal of residual liquid, reducing the risk of electrolysis.

[0289] Fig.14 1 is a partial exploded view showing the connector pins 51 , 52 and the connector sleeves 151 , 152 .

[0290] The connector pins 51 , 52 may each include an enlarged diameter portion (such as a thickened end portion) 241 and a reduced diameter portion 242 .

[0291] The connector sleeves 151, 152 may be formed as slotted metal sleeves including slots 243 extending along the entire length of the connector sleeves 151, 152 to allow widening during connection. The connector sleeves 151, 152 may each include a recessed portion 244 arranged to press against the reduced diameter portion 242 of the connector pins 51, 52 to hold the connector pins 51, 52 in a fixed state in the mating connector sleeves 152, 151.

[0292] As reference Fig.15 Explained in more detail, the protrusion of the female connector on the appliance facilitates placement of the screw head or bolt head adjacent to and outside the socket.

[0293] Fig.15 The end face of the housing of the appliance 20 is shown. The end face has an insertion opening for the socket of the female connector 50. The socket has a circumferential wall defining a protrusion, as explained in detail above. A recess 261 is provided adjacent to the socket 60. The head 262 of a screw or bolt is received in the recess 261.

[0294] The recess 261 may be located adjacent to the socket 60 but separated therefrom by a wall 265. Positioning the recess 261 for the head 262 outside the socket 60 allows the socket 60 to remain free of screw or bolt heads. This further reduces the risk of electrical creep currents.

[0295] The recess 261 can be positioned so that it overlaps the line 262 interconnecting the end of the third circumferential wall segment 183 and the end of the fourth circumferential wall segment 184. In this way, the area that is kept out of contact with the socket 60 by means of the protrusion is at least partially used to allow the recess 261 to overlap it.

[0296] Other protrusion (female connector) and recess (male connector) geometries may be used. Examples of protrusion and recess geometries are shown in Figures 16 to 18 A further projection or recess geometry is shown in and explained with reference to these figures and in Figures 19 to 21 A still further projection or recess geometry is shown in and explained with reference to these figures. Fig.16 and Fig.19 The female connector is shown in plan view. Fig.17 and Fig. 20 The corresponding male connector is shown in plan view. Fig.18 and Fig.21 is a partial perspective view of a corresponding male connector. The various protrusions and recesses are distinguished from each other in particular in terms of their protrusion / recess height and protrusion / recess width. These parameters can be as referenced Figures 1 to 15 To be determined by the explanation.

[0297] Figures 16 to 18 Shows where the protrusion (female connector) or recess (male connector) is larger than Figures 4 to 12 The more obvious connector among the connectors.

[0298] Fig.16 2 is a plan view of an additional female connector 270 that can be provided on the appliance. The additional female connector 270 has a Figure 4 and Figure 5 The second circumferential wall segment 272 is different from the second circumferential wall segment 182. The second circumferential wall segment 272 includes a protruding segment 273, which forms a protruding portion 271, which has a larger Figure 4 and Figure 5 The female connector 50 has a greater protrusion height 275. Therefore, the reduced socket height 274 at the protrusion 271 is less than Figure 4 and Figure 5 The height of the female connector 50. The width of the protrusion 124 and Figure 4 and Figure 5 The female connector 50 may remain the same, or may be smaller than Figure 4 and Figure 5 The width of the female connector is 50.

[0299] The ratio of the protrusion width 124 to the socket width 122 may be at least 0.60 or at least 0.61. When the socket has such a configuration, the protrusion width 124 is relatively large. The constriction formed in the bottom wall by such a wide protrusion can further reduce the risk of electrolysis by reducing the risk of electrical creep.

[0300] The ratio of the protrusion height 275 to the radius of curvature 105 of the third circumferential wall segment 83 and the fourth circumferential wall segment 84 can be at least 0.50, at least 0.55, at least 0.60, at least 0.65, at least 0.70, at least 0.75, at least 0.80, at least 0.85, at least 0.90, at least 0.95, at least 1.00, at least 1.05, or at least 1.10. Alternatively or additionally, the ratio of the protrusion height 275 to the socket height 123 can be at least 0.15, at least 0.20, at least 0.25, at least 0.30, at least 0.35, at least 0.4, at least 0.45, at least 0.50, or at least 0.55. This large protrusion height 275 facilitates a configuration in which a screw head or bolt head can be positioned separate from and adjacent to the socket, which further reduces the risk of electrical creep and electrolysis.

[0301] Fig.17 and Fig.18 A further male connector 280 of the power plug is shown, which further male connector is operative to be plugged into, in particular (but not necessarily limited to), the further female connector 270 .

[0302] The other male connector 280 has Figures 6 to 12 The second circumferential connector wall segment 282 is different from the second circumferential connector wall segment 182. The second circumferential connector wall segment 282 includes a notch segment 283, which forms a second circumferential connector wall segment 282 having a smaller diameter than the second circumferential connector wall segment 182. Figures 6 to 12 The male connector 150 has a greater plug connector recess height 285 than the plug connector recess 281. Therefore, the reduced plug connector height 284 at the plug connector recess 281 is less than Figures 6 to 12 The height of the male connector 150. The notch width 224 and Figures 6 to 12 The male connector 150 may remain the same, or may be smaller than Figures 6 to 12 The width of the male connector is 150.

[0303] The ratio of the plug connector recess width 224 to the plug connector width 222 can be at least 0.60 or at least 0.61. Alternatively or additionally, the ratio of the recess width 224 to the sleeve distance 221 can be at least 0.50, at least 0.55, at least 0.60, at least 0.65, at least 0.70, at least 0.75, at least 0.80, at least 0.85, at least 0.90, or at least 0.95.

[0304] The ratio of the notch height 285 to the radius of curvature 205 of the third circumferential connector wall segment 183 and the fourth circumferential connector wall segment 184 can be at least 0.50, at least 0.55, at least 0.60, at least 0.65, at least 0.70, at least 0.75, at least 0.80, at least 0.85, at least 0.90, at least 0.95, at least 1.00, at least 1.05, or at least 1.10. Alternatively or additionally, the ratio of the notch height 285 to the plug height 223 can be at least 0.15, at least 0.20, at least 0.25, at least 0.30, at least 0.35, at least 0.4, at least 0.45, at least 0.50, or at least 0.55. This large notch height 285 facilitates a configuration in which a screw head or bolt head can be positioned separate from and adjacent to the socket, which further reduces the risk of electrical creep and electrolysis.

[0305] Figures 19 to 21 shows where the protrusion (male connector) or notch (female connector) is not as good as Figures 4 to 12 The connectors in the obvious connectors.

[0306] Fig.19 2 is a plan view of an additional female connector 290 that may be provided on the appliance. The additional female connector 290 has a Figure 4 and Figure 5 The second circumferential wall segment 292 is different from the second circumferential wall segment 182. The second circumferential wall segment 292 includes a protruding segment 293, which forms a protruding portion 291, which has a larger Figure 4and Figure 5 The female connector 50 has a smaller protrusion height 295. Therefore, the reduced socket height 294 at the protrusion 291 is greater than Figure 4 and Figure 5 The height of the female connector 50. The protrusion width 297 may be less than Figure 4 and Figure 5 The width of the female connector 50 may be Figure 4 and Figure 5 The width of the female connector 50 remains the same. The protrusion width 297 is determined as the distance between the ends 296, 93 of the curved protrusion section (eg, in the third plane 103).

[0307] The ratio of the protrusion width 297 to the socket width 122 may be at least 0.30, at least 0.35, or at least 0.40.

[0308] The ratio of the protrusion height 295 to the radius of curvature 105 of the third circumferential wall segment 83 and the fourth circumferential wall segment 84 can be at least 0.30, at least 0.35, or at least 0.40. Alternatively or additionally, the ratio of the protrusion height 295 to the socket height 123 can be at least 0.15, at least 0.20, at least 0.25, or at least 0.30.

[0309] Fig. 20 and Fig.21 A further male connector 300 of the power plug is shown, which further male connector is operative to be plugged into, in particular (but not necessarily limited to), the further female connector 290 .

[0310] The other male connector 300 has Figures 6 to 12 The second circumferential connector wall segment 302 is different from the second circumferential connector wall segment 182. The second circumferential connector wall segment 302 includes a notch segment 303, which forms a second circumferential connector wall segment 302 having a smaller diameter than the second circumferential connector wall segment 182. Figures 6 to 12 The male connector 150 has a smaller plug connector recess height 305 of the plug connector recess 301. Therefore, the reduced plug connector height 304 at the plug connector recess 301 is greater than Figures 6 to 12 The height of the male connector 150. The plug connector recess width 307 may be less than Figures 6 to 12 The width of the male connector is 150, or with Figures 6 to 12 The male connector 150 may remain the same as compared to the male connector 150. The plug connector recess width 307 is determined as the distance between the ends 306, 193 of the curved recess segment (eg, in the third plane 203).

[0311] The ratio of the plug connector notch width 307 to the plug connector width 222 can be at least 0.30, at least 0.35, or at least 0.40. Alternatively or additionally, the ratio of the notch width 307 to the sleeve distance 221 can be at least 0.15, at least 0.20, at least 0.25, or at least 0.30.

[0312] The ratio of the notch height 305 to the radius of curvature 205 of the third circumferential connector wall segment 183 and the fourth circumferential connector wall segment 184 can be at least 0.30, at least 0.35, or at least 0.40. Alternatively or additionally, the ratio of the notch height 305 to the plug height 223 can be at least 0.15, at least 0.20, at least 0.25, or at least 0.30.

[0313] As explained above, different types of socket geometries and different types of plug connector geometries can be implemented. The various types of geometries can be distinguished from each other by the size and / or position of the protrusions (female connector) and / or the recesses (male connector). For illustration, as explained above, the various types of geometries can be distinguished from each other by their protrusion / recess widths and / or protrusion / recess heights. The recess width and recess height of the power plug and the protrusion width and protrusion height of the socket can be determined using any of the above-mentioned techniques, respectively.

[0314] Different notch geometries (e.g., different notch widths and / or notch heights) can be assigned different characteristics, such as different IPCs. Different protrusion geometries (e.g., different protrusion widths and / or protrusion heights) can be assigned different characteristics, such as different IPCs. For illustration, a kit may include an apparatus in which

[0315] - the socket has a socket geometry selected from the group having a socket protrusion geometry selected from the group consisting of a first socket protrusion geometry and a second socket protrusion geometry (and may consist of the first socket protrusion geometry and the second socket protrusion geometry, an optional third socket protrusion geometry, and optional additional socket protrusion geometries); and

[0316] -The power supply device includes a power plug having a plug connector recess geometry selected from the group including a first plug connector recess geometry and a second plug connector recess geometry (and may consist of the first plug connector recess geometry and the second plug connector recess geometry, an optional third plug connector recess geometry and an optional additional plug connector recess geometry).

[0317] Different recess geometries may be distinguished from each other in at least one of recess width and recess height. Different protrusion geometries may be distinguished from each other in at least one of protrusion width and protrusion height. Different recess geometries and protrusion geometries may allow at least one of the socket protrusion geometries to allow insertion of a plug connector having at least two types of different plug connector recess geometries. Different recess geometries and protrusion geometries may allow at least one of the plug connector recess geometries to allow the plug connector to be inserted into a socket having at least two types of different socket protrusion geometries. Different recess geometries and protrusion geometries may allow the protrusion geometry to selectively prevent insertion of a power plug according to characteristics associated with the power plug connector recess geometry (e.g., if the power plug connector recess geometry is assigned an IPC that is incompatible with the IPC of the appliance (determined according to, for example, IEC 60529, ISO 20653 or DIN40050-9) (e.g., because the power supply device has an IPC that is lower than the IPC of the appliance)).

[0318] The recess geometry and / or the protrusion geometry can be realized in such a way that

[0319] - Fig.17 and Fig.18 The male connector can be inserted into Figure 4 and Figure 5 Appliance sockets, Fig.16 Appliance sockets and Fig.19 the appliance socket;

[0320] - Figures 6 to 12 The male connector can be inserted into Figure 4 and Figure 5 The appliance socket can also be plugged into Fig.16 The appliance inlet is blocked from being inserted into Fig.19 the appliance socket;

[0321] - Fig. 20 and Fig.21 The male connector can be inserted into Fig.19 The appliance inlet is blocked from being inserted into Figure 4 and Figure 5 The appliance inlet is blocked from being inserted into Fig.16 appliance socket.

[0322] The recess geometry and / or the protrusion geometry can be realized in such a way that

[0323] - Fig.19 The female connector can accept Figures 6 to 12 Power plug connector, Fig.17 and Fig.18The power plug connector and Fig. 20 and Fig.21 Power plug connector;

[0324] - Figure 4 and Figure 5 The female connector can accept Figures 6 to 12 The power plug connector and Fig.17 and Fig.18 power plug connector, but prevents Fig. 20 and Fig.21 Insertion of the power plug connector;

[0325] - Fig.16 The female connector can accept Fig.17 and Fig.18 power plug connector, but prevents Figures 6 to 12 The power plug connector and Fig. 20 and Fig.21 Insert the power plug connector.

[0326] Various connector geometries may be assigned different IPCs and / or different other characteristics, ensuring that power supplies compatible with more challenging characteristics (e.g., higher IPCs) may also be used on appliances designed to meet only less challenging requirements (e.g., lower IPCs).

[0327] For purposes of illustration and not limitation, Figures 19 to 21 The connector geometry explained can be used for IPX0 plugs and appliances. Figures 4 to 12 The connector geometry explained can be used for IPX4 plugs and appliances. Figures 16 to 18 The connector geometries explained can be used for IPX7 plugs and appliances.

[0328] Fig. 22 is a table illustrating the use of a set of receptacle geometries and a set of corresponding plug connector geometries that are implemented in such a manner

[0329] - Plugs designed to meet more challenging requirements (e.g., higher IPC) can be used not only for appliances meeting these challenging requirements (such as the same high IPC as the plug), but also for appliances meeting less challenging requirements (such as lower IPC than the plug);

[0330] - The plug is prevented from being inserted into a socket of an appliance that is designed to meet more challenging requirements (e.g., higher IPC) than the plug (e.g., when the plug is designed for a lower IPC than the appliance).

[0331] The power supply device according to the embodiment may include a power plug according to one embodiment. The power supply device may be implemented as a power cord, such as Figure 1 shown. Fig.23 Another power supply 190 is shown. The power supply comprises a plug 193 for engaging with a mains socket, a support 191 and a bracket 192 for receiving an appliance thereon. The bracket 192 may comprise or may be a power plug as discussed herein. When the appliance is received on the bracket 192, the support 191 may support the bracket in a generally upright position.

[0332] The power supply device is operable to provide a supply voltage, for example, a voltage in a range between 2 V and 18 V; a voltage in a range between 4 V and 12 V, or a voltage of 5 V or 12 V. The power supply device may include a converter for performing a voltage down-conversion from a mains voltage, for example 230 V or 110 V, to a supply voltage of, for example, a voltage in a range between 2 V and 18 V; a voltage in a range between 4 V and 12 V, or a voltage of 5 V or 12 V.

[0333] Fig.24 1 is a schematic block diagram of an appliance 11, 12. The appliance comprises a female connector 21, which may have any of the configurations disclosed herein. The female connector may be used to receive a supply voltage, for example, a voltage in the range between 2V and 18V; a voltage in the range between 4V and 12V, or a voltage of 5V or 12V.

[0334] The appliance 11 , 12 may also include a battery 22 operative to be charged in response to the supply voltage.

[0335] The appliances 11 , 12 may also include an electromechanical actuator, such as a motor 23 , having an output operative to move in response to a supply voltage.

[0336] The housing 20 of the appliances 11 , 12 may provide a desired IP, which may be reflected by the socket geometry (eg, protrusion geometry) of the female connector 21 .

[0337] In various embodiments disclosed herein, the dimensions of the various quantities discussed herein may be as follows. It should be understood that not all dimensions specified below need to be present in combination.

[0338] Female connector

[0339] The pin distance 121 may be 5 mm or more, 6 mm or more, 7 mm or more, or 8 mm or more. The pin distance 121 may be 12 mm or less, 11 mm or less, 10 mm or less, or 9 mm or less. The pin distance 121 may be selected from one of the following ranges: 5 mm to 12 mm, 6 mm to 11 mm, 7 mm to 10 mm, or 8 mm to 9 mm.

[0340] The socket width 122 may be 10 mm or more, 11 mm or more, or 12 mm or more. The socket width 122 may be 15 mm or less, 14 mm or less, or 13.5 mm or less. The socket width 122 may be selected from one of the following ranges: 10 mm to 15 mm, 11 mm to 14 mm, or 12 mm to 13.5 mm.

[0341] The socket height 123 may be 4.0 mm or more, 4.3 mm or more, or 4.5 mm or more. The socket height 123 may be 5.5 mm or less, 5.2 mm or less, or 5.0 mm or less. The socket height 123 may be selected from one of the following ranges: 4.0 mm to 5.5 mm, 4.3 mm to 5.2 mm, or 4.5 mm to 5.0 mm.

[0342] The radius of curvature 105 may be 1.8 mm or more, 2.0 mm or more, or 2.2 mm or more. The radius of curvature 105 may be 2.8 mm or less, 2.6 mm or less, or 2.4 mm or less. The radius of curvature 105 may be selected from one of the following ranges: 1.8 mm to 2.8 mm, or 2.0 mm to 2.6 mm, or 2.2 mm to 2.4 mm.

[0343] The protrusion width 124 and the protrusion height 126 may depend on the IP rating of the appliance, as explained above.

[0344] Male connector

[0345] The sleeve distance 221 may be 5 mm or more, 6 mm or more, 7 mm or more, or 8 mm or more. The pin distance 221 may be 12 mm or less, 11 mm or less, 10 mm or less, or 9 mm or less. The sleeve distance 221 may be selected from one of the following ranges: 5 mm to 12 mm, 6 mm to 11 mm, 7 mm to 10 mm, or 8 mm to 9 mm.

[0346] The plug connector width 222 may be 10 mm or more, 11 mm or more, or 12 mm or more. The plug connector width 222 may be 15 mm or less, 14 mm or less, or 13.5 mm or less. The plug connector width 222 may be selected from one of the following ranges: 10 mm to 15 mm, 11 mm to 14 mm, or 12 mm to 13.5 mm.

[0347] The plug connector height 223 may be 4.0 mm or more, 4.3 mm or more, or 4.5 mm or more. The plug connector height 223 may be 5.5 mm or less, 5.2 mm or less, or 5.0 mm or less. The plug connector height 223 may be selected from one of the following ranges: 4.0 mm to 5.5 mm, 4.3 mm to 5.2 mm, or 4.5 mm to 5.0 mm.

[0348] The radius of curvature 205 may be 1.8 mm or more, 2.0 mm or more, or 2.2 mm or more. The radius of curvature 205 may be 2.8 mm or less, 2.6 mm or less, or 2.4 mm or less. The radius of curvature 205 may be selected from one of the following ranges: 1.8 mm to 2.8 mm, or 2.0 mm to 2.6 mm, or 2.2 mm to 2.4 mm.

[0349] The outer diameter 228 of the first connector sleeve 151 and the second connector sleeve 152 may be 2.0 mm or more, 2.2 mm or more, or 2.4 mm or more. The outer diameter 128 of the first connector sleeve 151 and the second connector sleeve 152 may be 3.2 mm or less, 3.0 mm or less, or 2.8 mm or less. The outer diameter 228 of the first connector sleeve 151 and the second connector sleeve 152 may be selected from one of the following ranges: 2.0 mm to 3.2 mm, 2.2 mm to 3.0 mm, or 2.4 mm to 2.8 mm.

[0350] The notch width 224 and notch height 226 may depend on the IP rating of the power supply device and / or the appliance for which the male connector is designed, as explained above.

[0351] Various effects are achieved by the devices, systems, kits, and methods disclosed herein. Improved protection against electrolysis can be achieved, facilitating use under conditions where residual fluids may tend to adhere to connectors. A platform for combining male and female connectors in a universal manner can be achieved while providing protection against undesired reverse polarity engagement of male and female connectors.

[0352] The dimensions and values ​​disclosed herein should not be understood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical values ​​cited. Instead, unless otherwise indicated, each such dimension is intended to represent the stated value and a functionally equivalent range around that value. For example, a dimension disclosed as "40 mm" is intended to mean "about 40 mm".

Claims

1. A kit (10), comprising: a first personal care appliance (11, 12), wherein the first personal care appliance is one of an electric toothbrush, a razor, a charging device, a cleaning station or an epilator, The first personal care appliance comprises a first housing (20, 30), the first housing having a first socket (21; 50), optionally having exactly two connector sleeves (151, 152); wherein the first socket (21; 50) has a first socket geometry selected from a group of two or more different socket geometries, the group of two or more different socket geometries are each assigned a different IP rating from a number of ingress protection IP ratings, the first socket geometry being assigned a first IP rating; and A power supply device (40; 190), comprising a power plug (43; 150; 280; 300), optionally having exactly two connector pins (51, 52), wherein the power plug (43; 150; 280; 300) has a plug geometry selected from a set of two or more different plug geometries, the set of two or more different plug geometries being each assigned a different IP class of the two or more IP classes, Wherein the first socket (50) is shaped as: allowing insertion of the power plug (150) when the plug geometry is assigned an IP rating equal to the first IP rating, allowing insertion of the power plug (280) when the plug geometry is assigned an IP rating higher than the first IP rating, and Insertion of the power plug (300) is prevented when the plug geometry is assigned an IP rating lower than the first IP rating.

2. The kit according to claim 1, wherein: The power supply device is a first power supply device, and the power plug is a first power plug (150) having a first plug geometry assigned the first IP rating; The kit further comprises a second power supply comprising a second power plug (280), the second power plug (280) having a second plug geometry selected from the set of two or more different plug geometries, the second plug geometry being assigned a second IP rating higher than the first IP rating; and The first socket (50) is shaped to allow insertion of the first power plug (150) and to allow insertion of the second power plug (280).

3. The kit according to claim 2, wherein: The kit also includes a second personal care appliance (11, 12), the second personal care appliance including a second housing (20, 30), the second housing having a second socket (270), the second socket (270) having a second socket geometry selected from the set of two or more different socket geometries, the second socket geometry being assigned the second IP rating; and The second socket (270) is shaped to prevent insertion of the first power plug (150) and to allow insertion of the second power plug (280).

4. The kit according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first personal care appliance comprises: A housing having a first socket (21; 50) for inserting the power plug (43; 150; 280); a first connector pin (51) and a second connector pin (52), wherein at least a portion of the first connector pin (51) and at least a portion of the second connector pin (52) extend within the first socket (21; 50), wherein: The first connector pin (51) has a first central axis (53), The second connector pin (52) has a second central axis (54), The first central axis (53) and the second central axis (54) are spaced apart by a pin distance (121), The first central axis (53) and the second central axis (54) define a first plane (101), and A second plane (102) is perpendicular to the first plane (101) and extends parallel to the first central axis (53) and the second central axis (54) and is equidistantly spaced from the first central axis (53) and the second central axis (54); The first socket (21; 50) is provided with a first socket circumferential wall (80) and a first socket bottom wall (70), in: The first socket circumferential wall (80) comprises a first circumferential wall segment (81); a second circumferential wall segment (82; 272; 292); a third circumferential wall segment (83), the third circumferential wall segment being curved, the third circumferential wall segment intersecting the first plane (101) and interconnecting the first circumferential wall segment (81) and the second circumferential wall segment (82; 272; 292); a fourth circumferential wall segment (84), the fourth circumferential wall segment being curved, the fourth circumferential wall segment intersecting the first plane (101) and interconnecting the first circumferential wall segment (81) and the second circumferential wall segment (82; 272; 292); wherein the first circumferential wall segment and the second circumferential wall segment (82; 272; 292) are arranged on opposite sides of the first plane (101), and the third circumferential wall segment (83) and the fourth circumferential wall segment (84) are arranged on opposite sides of the second plane (102); and wherein the second circumferential wall segment (82; 272; 292) includes a protruding segment (85; 273; 293) forming a protrusion (61; 271; 291); and The first socket bottom wall (70) comprises a first bottom wall section (71), the first bottom wall section extending transversely to the first plane (101) and the second plane (102), wherein the first connector pin (51) protrudes from the first bottom wall section (71); a second bottom wall section (72), the second bottom wall section extending transversely to the first plane (101) and the second plane (102), wherein the second connector pin (52) protrudes from the second bottom wall section (72); wherein the third plane (103) is perpendicular to the first plane (101) and the second plane (102), and wherein the first bottom wall section (71) and the second bottom wall section (72) extend in the third plane (103), and The third circumferential wall segment (83) has a radius of curvature (105).

5. The kit of claim 4, wherein the ratio of the radius of curvature (105) to the pin distance (121) is at most 0.

35.

6. A kit according to claim 4, wherein the intersection of the third circumferential wall segment (83) and the third plane (103) includes a first arc extending around the first center axis (53) at a first angle (129) of at least 170°, and wherein the intersection of the fourth circumferential wall segment (84) and the third plane (103) includes a second arc extending around the second center axis (54) at a second angle (129) of at least 170°.

7. The kit according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the first socket bottom wall (70) further comprises a rib (73), the rib extending between the first bottom wall section (71) and the second bottom wall section (72) and protruding relative to the first bottom wall section (71) and the second bottom wall section (72) to separate the first bottom wall section (71) and the second bottom wall section (72), Optionally, the rib (73) extends continuously from the first circumferential wall segment (81) to the second circumferential wall segment (82; 272; 292), and further optionally, the rib (73) has a vertex line located in the second plane (102).

8. The kit according to any one of claims 4 to 7, wherein the first circumferential wall segment (81) has a shape that is different from the shape of the second circumferential wall segment (82; 272; 292).

9. A kit according to any one of claims 4 to 8, wherein the personal care appliance (11, 12) further comprises a screw head (262) or a bolt head (262) exposed on the surface of the housing (20, 30), the housing (20, 30) comprises a recess (261), the screw head or the bolt head (262) is arranged in the recess, and the recess (261) is separated from the first socket (21; 50).

10. A kit according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the power plug (43; 150; 280; 300) comprises: A first connector sleeve (151); A second connector sleeve (152); in: The first connector sleeve (151) has a first sleeve central axis (153), The second connector sleeve (152) has a second sleeve central axis (154), The first sleeve center axis (153) and the second sleeve center axis (154) are spaced apart by a sleeve distance (221), The first sleeve center axis (153) and the second sleeve center axis (154) define a first connector plane (201), The second connector plane (202) is perpendicular to the first connector plane (201) and extends parallel to the first sleeve center axis (153) and the second sleeve center axis (154) and is equidistantly spaced from the first sleeve center axis (153) and the second sleeve center axis (154), and The power plug (43; 150; 280; 300) further comprises: an end surface (170) in which a first pin insertion opening (174) and a second pin insertion opening (175) are arranged; a circumferential connector wall (180) extending from the circumference of the end surface (170); The circumferential connector wall (180) comprises a first circumferential connector wall segment (181); a second circumferential connector wall segment (182; 282; 302); a third circumferential connector wall segment (183), the third circumferential connector wall segment being curved, the third circumferential connector wall segment intersecting the first connector plane (201) and interconnecting the first circumferential connector wall segment (181) and the second circumferential connector wall segment (182; 282; 302); a fourth circumferential connector wall segment (184), the fourth circumferential connector wall segment being curved, the fourth circumferential connector wall segment intersecting the first connector plane (201) and interconnecting the first circumferential connector wall segment (181) and the second circumferential connector wall segment (182; 282; 302); wherein the first circumferential connector wall segment (181) and the second circumferential connector wall segment (182) are arranged on opposite sides of the first connector plane (201), and the third circumferential connector wall segment (183) and the fourth circumferential connector wall segment (184) are arranged on opposite sides of the second connector plane (202); and wherein said second circumferential connector wall segment (182; 282; 302) comprises a connector recess segment (185; 283; 303) forming a connector recess (161; 281; 301); and The end surface (170) comprises: a first end surface segment (171), the first end surface segment extending transversely to the first connector plane (201) and the second connector plane (202), wherein the first end surface segment (171) includes the first connector pin insertion opening (174); and a second end surface segment (172), the second end surface segment extending transversely to the first connector plane (201) and the second connector plane (202), wherein the second end surface segment (172) comprises the second connector pin insertion opening (175); in A third connector plane (203) is perpendicular to the first connector plane (201) and the second connector plane (202), and wherein the first end surface segment (171) and the second end surface segment (172) extend in the third connector plane (203); and The third circumferential connector wall segment (183) has a radius of curvature (205).

11. The kit of claim 10, wherein the ratio of the radius of curvature (205) to the sleeve distance (221) is at most 0.

35.

12. A kit according to claim 10, wherein the third circumferential connector wall segment (183) includes a first arc extending around the first center axis (153) at a first angle (229) of at least 170°, and wherein the fourth circumferential connector wall segment (184) includes a second arc extending around the second center axis (154) at a second angle (229) of at least 170°.

13. A kit according to any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein the end surface (170) comprises a groove (173) arranged between the first end surface segment (171) and the second end surface segment (172), Optionally wherein the groove (173) extends continuously between the first circumferential connector wall segment (181) and the second circumferential connector wall segment (182; 282; 302).

14. A kit according to any one of claims 10 to 13, wherein the first plastic component (164) comprising the circumferential connector wall (180) and the end surface (170) is formed of a first plastic material, and wherein the power plug (43; 150; 280; 300) further comprises a second plastic component (165) connected to an end of the first plastic component (164) opposite the end surface (170), the second plastic component (165) being formed of a second plastic material, the first plastic material having a first hardness and the second plastic material having a second hardness different from the first hardness, optionally wherein the second plastic material forms a bend protection portion.

15. A kit according to any one of claims 10 to 14, wherein the first connector sleeve (151) is a first slotted sleeve operative to snap onto a second connector pin (52) of a male connector, and / or wherein the second connector sleeve (152) is a second slotted sleeve operative to snap onto a first connector pin (51) of the male connector.

16. A kit (10), comprising: A first personal care appliance (11, 12), wherein the first personal care appliance is one of an electric toothbrush, a razor, a charging device, a cleaning station or an epilator, the first personal care appliance comprising a first housing (20, 30), the first housing having a first socket (21; 50), the first socket (21; 50) having a first socket geometry, A second personal care appliance (11, 12), the second personal care appliance comprising a second housing (20, 30), the second housing having a second socket (21; 50), the second socket (21; 50) having a second socket geometry, The second housing (20, 30) is configured to be more watertight than the first housing (20, 30), A first power supply device (40; 190), the first power supply device comprising a first power housing and a first power plug (43; 150; 280; 300), the first power plug (43; 150; 280; 300) having a first plug geometry, A second power supply device (40; 190), the second power supply device comprising a second power housing and a second power plug (43; 150; 280; 300), the second power plug (43; 150; 280; 300) having a second plug geometry, The second power supply housing is configured to be more watertight than the first power supply housing, Wherein the first plug geometry is configured to fit within the first receptacle but not within the second receptacle, and wherein the second plug geometry is configured to fit within both the first receptacle and the second receptacle.

17. The kit (10) of claim 16, wherein a first connection surface of the first plug geometry configured for connection with the first socket is larger than a second connection surface of the second plug geometry configured for connection with the second socket.

18. The kit (10) according to claim 16 or 17, wherein the first plug geometry is provided with a first lateral recess (161), and wherein the second plug geometry is provided with a second lateral recess (281), and wherein the second lateral recess (281) is deeper than the first lateral recess (261).

19. The kit (10) according to claim 16, 17 or 18, comprising: A third personal care appliance (11, 12), the third personal care appliance comprising a third housing (20, 30), the third housing having a third socket (21; 50), the third socket (21; 50) having a third socket geometry, The second shell (20, 30) and the first shell are configured to be more watertight than the third shell (20, 30), A third power supply device (40; 190), the third power supply device comprising a third power housing and a third power plug (43; 150; 280; 300), the third power plug (43; 150; 280; 300) having a third plug geometry, The second power supply housing and the first power supply housing are configured to be more watertight than the first power supply housing, Wherein the first plug geometry and the second plug geometry are configured to fit within the third receptacle, and wherein the third plug geometry is configured to fit neither within the first receptacle nor within the second receptacle.

20. The kit (10) of claim 16, 17, 18 or 19, wherein the first power supply and the second power supply are of a switch mode power supply type that converts a mains voltage to a lower appliance voltage.

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