Power socket, control method thereof and vehicle

Abstract

The invention provides a power socket, a control method thereof and a vehicle, and relates to the technical field of sockets. A plurality of function modules arranged in the socket main body, wherein any function module comprises an interface module, a relay and a control chip connected with the interface module and the relay; the interface module is used for connecting external equipment; the control chip is used for adjusting the output voltage and frequency of the function module. The relay is used for connecting or disconnecting the interface module. The main controller is connected with each functional module through an I2C bus and is used for controlling the on-off of the relays in each functional module; functional modular design is carried out on the power socket, various possible modules can adopt different standards, so that the power socket can adapt to power plugs with different standards in the world, the use convenience is greatly improved, each functional module is provided with a corresponding safety protection mechanism, equipment damage and fire risk can be prevented, and the modern intelligent life requirement is met. And the use safety is ensured.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of socket technology, specifically to a power socket and its control method, and to a vehicle. Background Technology

[0002] With the acceleration of globalization, people frequently encounter power compatibility issues during international travel and business activities. The power socket standards of different countries and regions vary greatly, making it impossible to use electronic devices directly. The traditional solution is to carry multiple adapters, but this method is neither convenient nor safe, easily causing poor contact or damage to equipment. Furthermore, with the widespread adoption of smart devices, the demand for intelligent power sockets is increasing, including functions such as remote control and power consumption statistics. However, existing smart sockets typically only adapt to the power standards of specific regions, failing to meet the diverse needs of the global market. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In view of this, the embodiments of the present invention aim to provide a power socket and its control method, as well as a vehicle, which effectively solves the problems of incompatibility and low intelligence of power sockets, can adapt to power plugs of different global standards, can prevent equipment damage and fire risks, meet the needs of modern smart life, and ensure safety in use.

[0004] To achieve the above technical objectives, the embodiments of this specification provide the following technical solutions: In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a power socket, the power socket comprising: a socket body; a plurality of functional modules disposed in the socket body, each of the functional modules comprising: an interface module, a relay, and a control chip connected to the interface module and the relay; the interface module being used to connect to an external device; the control chip being used to adjust the output voltage and frequency of the functional module, and the relay being used to connect or disconnect the interface module; and a main controller, connected to each of the functional modules via an I2C bus, being used to control the connection and disconnection of the relays in each of the functional modules.

[0005] In this embodiment, by designing the power socket with functional modularity, each possible module can adopt different standards, enabling the power socket to be compatible with power plugs of different standards around the world, greatly improving the convenience of use. Each functional module is equipped with a corresponding safety protection mechanism to prevent equipment damage and fire risks, meet the needs of modern smart living, and ensure safety of use.

[0006] Optionally, the functional module further includes: a metering chip connected to the main controller for real-time acquisition of electrical performance data of the functional module; the main controller controls the on / off state of each relay connected to each of the interface modules according to the electrical performance data.

[0007] In this embodiment, the electrical performance data of each functional module can be detected by the metering chip, thereby controlling the on / off state of each functional module, ensuring the safety of the equipment and the user, and eliminating the safety hazards of traditional adapter plugs.

[0008] Optionally, the power socket further includes a temperature and humidity sensor connected to the main controller, used to detect the temperature and humidity of the environment where the power socket is located and transmit it to the main controller, and the main controller controls the on / off state of each relay connected to each of the interface modules according to the temperature and humidity.

[0009] In this embodiment, a temperature and humidity sensor is installed to detect the temperature and humidity of the power socket, and the relevant functional modules in the power socket are controlled to prevent equipment damage and fire risk caused by excessive temperature and humidity, thus ensuring the safety of the power socket.

[0010] Optionally, the power socket further includes a Wi-Fi communication module connected to the main controller, through which the main controller establishes a wireless communication connection with a third-party application.

[0011] In this embodiment, a wireless communication connection is established with a third-party application through a Wi-Fi communication module, enabling remote management of various functional modules in the power socket via the third-party application, thereby improving the user experience and meeting the needs of modern smart living.

[0012] Secondly, embodiments of this application also provide a method for controlling a power socket, the method comprising: identifying the interface type of an interface module in any functional module and the power standard of an external device connected thereto, and adjusting the output voltage and frequency of the functional module according to the interface type and the power standard; obtaining the operating state of any functional module, and controlling the on / off state of each relay connected to the any functional module and other associated functional modules according to the operating state.

[0013] In this embodiment, by designing the power socket with functional modularity, each possible module can adopt different standards, enabling the power socket to be compatible with power plugs of different standards around the world, greatly improving the convenience of use. Each functional module is equipped with a corresponding safety protection mechanism to prevent equipment damage and fire risks, meet the needs of modern smart living, and ensure safety of use.

[0014] Optionally, identifying the interface type of the interface module in any functional module and the power standard of the connected external device, and adjusting the output voltage and frequency of the functional module according to the interface type and / or the power standard, includes: identifying the interface type of the interface module in any functional module and the power standard of the external device connected to the interface module, the power standard including the output voltage and frequency required by the external device; determining the voltage standard of the interface module according to the interface type, the voltage standard indicating the voltage adapted to the interface type; and performing voltage conversion and frequency adjustment according to the voltage standard and the power standard to output an output voltage and frequency that meets the voltage standard and the power standard.

[0015] In this embodiment, by automatically adjusting the output parameters, the safe use of the device is ensured, avoiding the hidden dangers of traditional adapter plugs. It can be adapted to power plugs of different standards around the world, greatly improving the convenience of use.

[0016] Optionally, the step of obtaining the working state of any functional module and controlling the on / off state of each relay connected to the any functional module and other associated functional modules according to the working state includes: real-time acquisition of electrical performance data of any functional module, the electrical performance data including voltage, current and power; determining the working state of the any functional module according to the electrical performance data; controlling the on / off state of the relays connected to the any functional module according to the working state, and simultaneously controlling the on / off state of each relay connected to each of the associated functional modules.

[0017] In this embodiment, the operation of any functional module and other functional modules linked with it can be controlled by determining the working state based on the electrical performance data of any functional module. That is, through the independent control of functional modules and the linkage control of related functional modules, the safety of the power socket can be ensured, equipment damage and fire risk can be prevented, and the needs of modern smart life can be met, thus improving the user experience.

[0018] Optionally, the method further includes: detecting the temperature and humidity of the environment in which the power socket is located using a temperature and humidity sensor; and controlling the on / off state of at least one functional module associated with the temperature and humidity.

[0019] In this embodiment, the on / off control of relevant functional modules in the power socket is performed by detecting the temperature and humidity of the power socket, so as to prevent equipment damage and fire risk caused by excessive temperature and humidity, and ensure the safety of the power socket.

[0020] Optionally, the method further includes: if any functional module is detected to be added to the power socket, then searching for the control logic of adding the functional module through a third-party application; if any functional module is detected to be removed from the power socket, then hiding the control logic of the functional module through a third-party application.

[0021] In this implementation, a precise, collaborative, and personalized control experience can be achieved, truly enabling remote control to adapt to the user's flexible combination needs, rather than forcing the user to conform to fixed control logic.

[0022] Thirdly, embodiments of this application also provide a vehicle, the vehicle including the aforementioned power socket.

[0023] As can be seen from the above technical solution, the power socket provided in this embodiment includes: a socket body; multiple functional modules disposed in the socket body, each functional module including: an interface module, a relay, and a control chip connected to the interface module and the relay; the interface module is used to connect external devices; the control chip is used to adjust the output voltage and frequency of the functional module, and the relay is used to connect or disconnect the interface module; a main controller is connected to each functional module via an I2C bus and is used to control the connection and disconnection of the relays in each functional module; the power socket is designed with modular functionality, and each possible module can adopt different standards, so that the power socket can be adapted to power plugs of different standards around the world, greatly improving the convenience of use. Each functional module is equipped with a corresponding safety protection mechanism to prevent equipment damage and fire risk, meet the needs of modern smart life, and ensure safety of use.

[0024] The above description is merely an overview of the technical solution disclosed herein. In order to better understand the technical means of this disclosure and to implement it in accordance with the contents of the specification, and to make the above and other objects, features and advantages of this disclosure more apparent and understandable, specific embodiments of this disclosure are described below. Attached Figure Description

[0025] Various other advantages and benefits will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the following detailed description of preferred embodiments. The accompanying drawings are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, the same reference numerals denote the same parts throughout the drawings.

[0026] Figure 1 The diagram shown is a structural schematic of a power socket provided in one embodiment of this application.

[0027] Figure 2 The diagram shown is an example of a power socket provided in one embodiment of this application.

[0028] Figure 3 The diagram shown is an example of another power socket provided in one embodiment of this application.

[0029] Figure 4 The diagram shown is a flowchart illustrating a power socket control method according to an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0030] Unless otherwise defined, the technical or scientific terms used in the embodiments of this specification shall have the ordinary meaning understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this specification pertains. The terms "first," "second," and similar terms used in the embodiments of this specification do not indicate any order, quantity, or importance, but are merely used to avoid confusion of constituent elements.

[0031] Unless the context otherwise requires, throughout this specification, "a plurality of" means "at least two," and "including" is interpreted as open-ended or encompassing, that is, "including, but not limited to." In the description of this specification, terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "exemplary embodiment," "example," "specific example," or "some examples" are intended to indicate that a particular feature, structure, material, or characteristic associated with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of this specification. The illustrative representations of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example.

[0032] Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. While exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are shown in the drawings, it should be understood that the present disclosure may be implemented in various forms and should not be limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the disclosure to those skilled in the art.

[0033] In related technologies, with the acceleration of globalization, people frequently encounter power compatibility issues during international travel and business activities. The power socket standards of different countries and regions vary greatly, making it impossible to use electronic devices directly. The traditional solution is to carry multiple adapters, but this method is neither convenient nor safe, easily causing poor contact or damage to equipment. Furthermore, with the popularization of smart devices, the demand for intelligent power sockets is increasing, such as remote control and power consumption statistics. However, existing smart sockets are usually only compatible with the power standards of specific regions, and power socket standards in different countries and regions are incompatible. The design standards of power sockets vary greatly from country to country, such as the shape, size, voltage, and frequency of the plugs, making it impossible to use devices directly. Traditional adapters have a single design, cannot adapt to multiple standards, lack intelligent functions, are inconvenient to use, and pose safety hazards. Smart sockets are usually designed for specific regions and cannot meet the diverse needs of the global market.

[0034] Based on this, in order to solve the technical problems of incompatibility and low intelligence of power sockets in related technologies, this application provides a power socket, such as... Figure 1 As shown, Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a power socket provided in an embodiment of this application. The power socket includes: Socket body; Multiple functional modules are disposed in the socket body, each of the functional modules including: an interface module, a relay, and a control chip connected to the interface module and the relay; the interface module is used to connect external devices; the control chip is used to adjust the output voltage and frequency of the functional module, and the relay is used to connect or disconnect the interface module; The main controller is connected to each of the functional modules via an I2C bus and is used to control the on / off state of the relays in each of the functional modules.

[0035] like Figure 1 The socket body contains n functional modules, where n is a positive integer. The specific value of n can be set as needed and is not specifically limited here. The functions of the n functional modules in the socket body can be the same or different. For example, the n functional modules may include a Universal Serial Bus (USB) module, a Type-C module, a mobile phone charging module, a computer module, etc. Correspondingly, the interface modules among the n functional modules can also have the same or different standards. For example, some interface modules among the n functional modules are five-hole modules, some are five-hole interface modules, some are three-hole interface modules, some are USB interface modules, etc. See [examples omitted]. Figure 2 The power socket 10 includes a five-hole module 11, a European standard interface module 13, an industrial equipment interface module 13, a constant current source module 14, and a USB interface module. See also... Figure 3 The power socket 20 only includes a five-hole module 21. The power standards of each interface module can be the same or different. For example, some interface modules can be powered by 220V, while some functional modules can be powered by 380V or 110V.

[0036] The control chip in any functional module is used to identify the interface type of the interface module in that functional module and the power standard of the connected external device, and adjust the output voltage and frequency of the functional module according to the interface type and the power standard. The main controller is used to acquire the operating status of any functional module, and control the on / off state of each relay connected to the corresponding functional module and other associated functional modules according to the operating status.

[0037] In this embodiment, the power socket is designed with functional modularity. Each possible module can adopt different standards, enabling the power socket to be compatible with power plugs of different standards around the world, greatly improving ease of use. Each functional module is equipped with a corresponding safety protection mechanism to prevent equipment damage and fire risks, meet the needs of modern smart living, and ensure safety in use.

[0038] In this embodiment, the control chip in each functional module can automatically identify the power standard of the plugged-in device and adjust the output voltage and frequency to ensure safe use of the device. The control chip can determine the required output voltage and frequency based on the device identification result. For example, some devices may require 110V, while others may require 220V. The intelligent control chip controls the power supply, adjusting the output voltage and frequency to meet the device's requirements. The control chip may involve hardware such as voltage converters and frequency regulators. The control chip ensures stable operation of the device under the adjusted power conditions, preventing damage from voltage fluctuations or frequency instability. This modular design of the power socket allows it to adapt to power plugs of different global standards, greatly improving ease of use; simultaneously, the intelligent identification technology automatically adjusts the output parameters to ensure safe use of connected devices, avoiding the hidden dangers of traditional adapter plugs.

[0039] Considering that the output voltage standards of different functional modules may differ, the devices connected to different functional modules may differ, and the required output voltage and frequency for each setting may also differ, in this embodiment of the application, the functional module further includes: a metering chip, connected to the main controller, used to collect the electrical performance data of the functional module in real time; the main controller controls the on / off switching of each relay connected to each of the interface modules according to the electrical performance data. Specifically, the metering chip can be any existing chip or processor capable of implementing the above functions, and no specific limitations are imposed here. For example, the metering chip can be a power metering chip of model HLW8012.

[0040] Each functional module can be equipped with an independent metering chip. This chip can collect real-time voltage, current, and power data from its respective module, and then statistically analyze the module's cumulative power consumption, voltage / current fluctuations, and other electrical performance data. This data can be transmitted to the main controller via an I2C interface. The main controller can determine the operating status of each functional module based on this data, such as whether there is overcurrent or overvoltage, and then control the switching on / off of each module. Each functional module is also associated with other functional modules. If an abnormal operating status is detected in one of these modules, the relays in that module and all associated modules can be disconnected, severing the connection between each module and the corresponding device, thus providing protection for that module. In this way, by using metering chips to detect the electrical performance data of each functional module and control their switching on / off, the safety of equipment and users can be ensured, eliminating the safety hazards of traditional adapter plugs.

[0041] The metering chip of each functional module can also statistically analyze the power consumption of any functional module within a preset time period based on the electrical performance data of that functional module, and determine the energy consumption of connected external devices based on the power consumption. The metering chip can determine whether the energy consumption of its functional module is normal, specifically by comparing it with a reference energy consumption. If the actual energy consumption is greater than the reference energy consumption, then the energy consumption of that functional module is determined to be abnormal. The metering chip can also determine whether the operation of the functional module is stable based on the electrical performance data. If the electrical performance data of the functional module is unstable, i.e., the voltage or current fluctuation is too large, or the energy consumption is abnormal, the relay in the functional module can be controlled to disconnect, cutting off the connection between the functional module and the external device.

[0042] Considering the different temperatures and humidity levels of the various functional modules within the power socket, their operating states will also differ. Therefore, in this embodiment, optionally, the power socket further includes a temperature and humidity sensor connected to the main controller, used to detect the temperature and humidity of the environment in which the power socket is located and transmit this information to the main controller. The main controller then controls the on / off states of the relays connected to each of the interface modules based on the temperature and humidity readings.

[0043] Since the temperature and humidity are generally consistent throughout a power socket, a temperature and humidity sensor can be used to directly detect the ambient temperature and humidity. Based on the detected temperature and humidity, it can be determined whether there is an abnormality in the power socket's temperature and humidity. Specifically, the detected temperature and humidity can be compared with reference temperature and reference humidity, respectively. If the temperature is higher than the reference temperature, or the humidity is higher than the reference humidity, it is determined that there is an abnormality in the power socket's temperature and humidity, and the on / off state of at least one functional module associated with the temperature and humidity can be controlled. The reference temperature and reference humidity can be set as needed; for example, the reference humidity can be set to 60%. If the temperature and humidity sensor module is linked with an air conditioning module, the air conditioning module can be automatically turned on when the detected humidity is higher than the reference humidity of 60%. It should be noted that the temperature and humidity sensor can be a composite sensor that uses an integrated temperature and humidity probe as the temperature sensing element, and collects signals through a resistive humidity sensing element and a negative temperature coefficient (NTC) temperature sensing element. After processing by filtering, amplification, and nonlinear correction circuits, it outputs a linear electrical signal or a digital signal. For example, the temperature and humidity sensor could be a model SHT30 temperature and humidity detection chip, but other models of temperature and humidity sensors are also possible; no specific restrictions are placed here. The temperature and humidity sensor can also consist of separate temperature and humidity sensors, which detect the temperature and humidity of the power outlet respectively.

[0044] The power socket in this embodiment uses a temperature and humidity sensor to detect the temperature and humidity of the power socket and control the on / off state of relevant functional modules in the power socket. This prevents equipment damage and fire risks caused by excessive temperature and humidity, and ensures the safety of the power socket.

[0045] To facilitate remote control, in this embodiment of the application, the power socket may optionally include a Wi-Fi communication module connected to the main controller, through which the main controller establishes a wireless communication connection with a third-party application.

[0046] The third-party application (APP) can be a computer-based APP or a mobile terminal APP, such as a mobile phone APP. The power socket establishes a wireless communication connection with the third-party application through an integrated Wi-Fi communication module, supporting remote control and power consumption statistics. Users can manage the power socket through the mobile APP, realizing functions such as timed on / off switching and power consumption monitoring. The remote control of existing ordinary smart sockets is mostly based on the basic logic of "single command-execution", only meeting the basic need of "the mobile phone sends a command, and the socket performs an action"; while the modular power socket with integrated Wi-Fi module has "modular adaptation + scenario-based linkage + data-driven closed loop" as its core for remote control. Users can select the Wi-Fi communication module according to their needs, as long as it can enable remote communication. For example, the Wi-Fi communication module can use the ESP32 model, which integrates Bluetooth dual-mode Wi-Fi control chip, as the core of module group data processing and remote communication. It establishes communication with the third-party application through the I2C bus, receives remote commands from the third-party application, and provides feedback on the working status of each functional module. If any functional module has an abnormal working status, the power socket can also send alarm information to the third-party application through the Wi-Fi communication module so that users can take relevant measures in a timely manner.

[0047] This application embodiment establishes a wireless communication connection with a third-party application through a Wi-Fi communication module, enabling remote management of various functional modules in the power socket through the third-party application, thereby improving the user experience and meeting the needs of modern smart living.

[0048] Compared to related technologies where the entire socket is used as the control unit, such as a smart socket with three sockets, remote control can only "all on / all off," and cannot individually manage a single socket. Functional modules (such as USB and Type-C) are often bound to the main power supply and lack independent control. In the power socket of this application embodiment, each functional module, such as the five-hole module, USB module, and 16A high-power module, is an independent control node. Third-party applications can name each functional module, such as "computer module" or "mobile phone charging module," and support "individual switching, individual timing, and individual power consumption statistics." For example, a module group combining "five-hole + dual USB + Type-C" can remotely shut down idle USB modules, leaving only the five-hole module powered, preventing a complete power outage from causing critical equipment shutdown. Each functional module can be configured with an independent relay, which, along with a voltage divider circuit, enables the main control chip to control the on / off state of the functional module. For example, the five-hole / Type-C module uses a 10A relay, and the night light module uses a 5A relay. A voltage divider circuit composed of a resistor and a transistor controls the on / off state of the functional modules. Each functional module adopts a neutral-on-line power supply scheme. The main power supply is via an AC-DC step-down module (outputting 5V / 12V) to power the control chip, relays, and metering chip, ensuring continuous operation of the power socket. The Type-C module additionally integrates a PD3.0 fast charging protocol chip, supporting multiple output levels of 5V / 9V / 12V. Furthermore, the various functional modules within the power socket utilize a relay interlock design to prevent interference between them.

[0049] In this embodiment, the power socket can also achieve linkage between different functional modules. Compared to existing remote control linkage logic, which is simple and mostly "manually triggered by a mobile APP" or "single-condition linkage," lacking cross-device / cross-module collaborative capabilities, and with different sockets operating independently, such as being bound to mobile phone location for "turning off when leaving home / turning on when returning home," the power socket in this embodiment can perform modular socket control, achieving dual linkage "within functional modules and across functional modules" based on the combination of functional modules, making the logic more flexible. For linkage within functional modules, for example, when the Type-C charging module is fully charged, a data trigger occurs, automatically shutting off the power supply to that functional module. Conversely, when the current of the 16A high-power module exceeds the threshold, a safety trigger occurs, simultaneously shutting down other functional modules in the same group. For linkage across modules, for example, if a temperature and humidity sensor module and an air conditioner-specific module are combined, the air conditioner-specific module can be automatically turned on when the humidity is greater than 60%, or the USB charging module on the same track can be turned off when the five-hole module (computer) has no current for 3 consecutive hours. This enables intelligent collaboration between functional modules, rather than isolated control.

[0050] Compared to existing power sockets where power consumption statistics primarily reflect the total power consumption of the entire socket without distinguishing the power usage of individual devices or functional modules, providing only a general energy consumption reference and lacking precise management value, the power socket in this application's embodiment features a built-in independent metering chip for each functional module. This chip allows a third-party application to display the "real-time power, cumulative power consumption, and voltage / current fluctuations of an individual functional module." For example, it can track the monthly power consumption of a "printer module" to determine if there is any standby power wastage. Individual power consumption statistics can be performed for high-power modules (such as those dedicated to water heaters), facilitating the calculation of energy consumption in specific scenarios and enabling precise location of abnormal data. For instance, if a functional module experiences "voltage instability" or "sudden power increase," the third-party application can directly push alarm information to that module, rather than an alarm for the entire power socket, facilitating rapid fault diagnosis. Additionally, a power indicator light can be set in the power socket to show whether the power is on. Figure 2 The power socket 10 also includes a power indicator light 16 to illuminate when the power socket 10 is in normal working condition. Figure 3 The power socket 20 includes a first indicator light 22 and a second indicator light 23. The first indicator light 22 is used to indicate that the power socket 20 is powered on normally, and the second indicator light 23 is used to indicate that there is an abnormality in the five-hole module.

[0051] Compared to existing power sockets with fixed factory functions, such as the number of sockets and the type of functional modules, the remote control logic is also fixed and cannot be adjusted by users according to subsequent needs. For example, after adding a USB module, it is impossible to add a corresponding control entry in a third-party application. However, the power socket in this embodiment can dynamically adapt and combine functional modules. That is, it supports automatic adaptation of third-party applications when the physical combination changes, so that the control logic can be dynamically adjusted according to the combination of functional modules. For example, after adding a "night light module", the third-party application automatically recognizes and adds a control page for the functional module, without the need to manually add the device. After removing any functional module, the third-party application automatically hides the control entry of the functional module to avoid invalid operations. The power socket in this embodiment also supports "module group saving", which can preset different combination scenarios and remotely switch the control status corresponding to the combination form with one click. For example, the office mode is when the five-hole module and the USB module are turned on, and the sleep mode is when only the night light module is turned on.

[0052] In simple terms, existing remote control is "remote operation of a fixed socket," while the remote control of the modular power socket in this application embodiment is "intelligent management of a group of customizable modules." The core difference lies in whether it revolves around the "modular" characteristic to achieve a "precise, collaborative, and personalized" control experience, truly allowing remote control to adapt to the user's flexible combination needs, rather than forcing the user to conform to fixed control logic. The power socket in this application embodiment also adopts safety protection mechanisms including built-in overload protection, short circuit protection, and temperature monitoring functions to ensure safe use and prevent equipment damage and fire risks.

[0053] The following example uses a smart bedroom module's power outlet, which includes a five-hole module, a Type-C fast charging module, a temperature and humidity sensor module, and a night light module. The five-hole module (named "Bedside Charging") has independent on / off control, supporting remote activation to power a Bluetooth speaker, and its shutdown does not affect other modules in the same group. The Type-C module (named "Mobile Fast Charging") has a separately configured fast charging protocol (e.g., 27W SuperCharge), and its charging function can be remotely disabled to prevent devices from remaining in standby mode after fully charged. The night light module (named "Night Light") has independently adjustable brightness levels and supports remote activation of a "always-on" mode, completely decoupled from the power supply status of other modules. The temperature and humidity sensor is used to detect the bedroom's temperature and humidity.

[0054] The Type-C module detects that the phone's charging power is less than or equal to 0.5W (fully charged indicator) and automatically sends a signal to the control chip to turn off its own relay. When the temperature and humidity sensor detects that the bedroom humidity is greater than 65%, it triggers the five-hole module (connected to a small dehumidifier) ​​to automatically turn on. The night light module can be set to turn on after 11 PM and then automatically turn off the five-hole module (if not necessary) to avoid nighttime power consumption.

[0055] For the five-hole module, a third-party application can display real-time power consumption (e.g., 120W when the dehumidifier is working), daily power consumption, and generate a monthly "Dehumidification Energy Consumption Statistics". For the Type-C module, it can record the power consumption of a single charge (e.g., "0.3kWh charged today"), display standby power consumption (e.g., 0.2W), and push a "Recommended to turn off if idle for a long time" reminder. If the current of the five-hole module suddenly increases by more than 10A, the third-party application will directly mark "Bedside charging module overload" and trigger power-off protection to accurately locate the faulty module.

[0056] This power outlet can also dynamically adapt to different combinations. If a new USB-A module is physically embedded, the main controller identifies the address of the new module via the bus, and the third-party application automatically adds a control card, eliminating the need for manual device addition. If a module needs to be removed, such as the temperature and humidity sensor module, the third-party application automatically hides the module's entry point and associated linkage rules, while preserving the normal control logic of other modules. When the power outlet remotely switches to "sleep mode," it automatically controls the Type-C module to turn off, reduces the brightness of the night light module, and simultaneously controls the five-hole module (dehumidifier) ​​to turn off after a 2-hour timer, quickly adjusting the adaptable combination configuration.

[0057] The power socket in this application embodiment achieves global compatibility through modular design and intelligent identification technology, solving the compatibility problem of traditional sockets; it ensures the safety of equipment and users through intelligent identification and safety protection mechanisms, eliminating the safety hazards of traditional adapter plugs; the integrated intelligent functions enhance the user experience and meet the intelligent needs of modern life; and the modular design and intelligent functions eliminate the need for users to carry multiple adapter plugs, greatly improving ease of use.

[0058] In one exemplary embodiment of this specification, a method for controlling a power outlet is also provided. This control method is applied to the aforementioned power outlet. Figure 4 As shown, the control method for this power socket includes: Step S11: Identify the interface type of the interface module in any functional module and the power standard of the connected external device, and adjust the output voltage and frequency of the functional module according to the interface type and the power standard.

[0059] Different functional modules within a power socket may have different power standards. For example, some modules may be 220V, while others may be 380V or 110V. Interface modules may also differ; some may be five-hole, others three-hole, and still others USB. The control chip within any functional module can identify the interface type of its interface module and the power standard of the connected external device. This control chip can incorporate hardware such as voltage converters and frequency regulators to adjust the module's output voltage and frequency according to the interface type and power standard. This ensures stable operation of the device under adjusted power conditions, preventing damage from voltage fluctuations or frequency instability.

[0060] Step S12: Obtain the working status of any functional module, and control the on / off state of each relay connected to the corresponding functional module and other associated functional modules according to the working status.

[0061] This ensures stable operation of the equipment under adjusted power conditions, preventing damage from voltage fluctuations or frequency instability. It also monitors the operating status of any functional module. If any functional module malfunctions, it controls the on / off state of the corresponding relays connected to that module and other associated functional modules. If the module is independent, its relays are disconnected. If the module is linked to other modules, the relays of those linked modules are also disconnected. Furthermore, it can adjust the operating status of other linked functional modules based on the operating status of any given module to ensure safe use of the power socket.

[0062] The power socket control method of this application embodiment identifies the interface type of the interface module in any functional module and the power standard of the connected external device, and adjusts the output voltage and frequency of the functional module according to the interface type and the power standard; obtains the working state of any functional module, and controls the on / off state of each relay connected to the functional module and other associated functional modules according to the working state; the power socket is designed with functional modularity, and each possible module can adopt different standards, so that the power socket can be adapted to power plugs of different standards around the world, which greatly improves the convenience of use. Each functional module is equipped with a corresponding safety protection mechanism to prevent equipment damage and fire risk, meet the needs of modern smart life, and ensure safety of use.

[0063] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions provided in the embodiments of this application, the following provides a further description of an assisted driving method.

[0064] To enable power sockets to be compatible with different power standards and corresponding devices, in this embodiment, optionally, the step of identifying the interface type of an interface module in any functional module and the power standard of the connected external device, and adjusting the output voltage and frequency of the functional module according to the interface type and / or the power standard, includes: identifying the interface type of an interface module in any functional module and the power standard of the external device connected to the interface module, wherein the power standard includes the output voltage and frequency required by the external device; determining the voltage standard of the interface module according to the interface type, wherein the voltage standard is used to indicate the voltage adapted to the interface type; and performing voltage conversion and frequency adjustment according to the voltage standard and the power standard to output an output voltage and frequency that meets the voltage standard and the power standard.

[0065] The power socket features a modular design, where different external devices may be connected to each module, resulting in varying required output voltages and frequencies. The interface types within each module may also differ, leading to different voltage standards. The system identifies the interface type of any given module and the power standard of the external device connected to it, determining the voltage standard of that module based on the interface type. Once the voltage and power standards of each module are obtained, the required output voltage and frequency can be determined. Voltage conversion and frequency adjustment can then be performed on each module to achieve the desired output voltage and frequency. This automatic adjustment of output parameters ensures safe device use, avoids the risks associated with traditional adapter plugs, and is compatible with power plugs of various global standards, significantly improving ease of use.

[0066] Considering that the functional modules in a power socket may be independent of each other or linked with other functional modules, it is necessary to perform corresponding independent or linked control on each functional module. Based on this, in this embodiment, optionally, obtaining the operating state of any functional module and controlling the on / off state of each relay connected to the any functional module and other associated functional modules according to the operating state includes: real-time acquisition of electrical performance data of any functional module, the electrical performance data including voltage, current, and power; determining the operating state of the any functional module based on the electrical performance data; controlling the on / off state of the relays connected to the any functional module according to the operating state, and simultaneously controlling the on / off state of each relay connected to each of the associated functional modules.

[0067] The system collects real-time electrical performance data, including voltage, current, and power, from any functional module to determine its operating status. If the module is relatively independent and not linked to other modules, the corresponding relay is controlled directly based on its operating status. If the module is linked to other modules in the power socket, the system can also control the relays in those linked modules. For example, a data trigger when the Type-C charging module is fully charged automatically shuts off power to the module. Conversely, a safety trigger when the 16A high-power module exceeds its current threshold requires the simultaneous shutdown of other linked modules. If the temperature and humidity sensor module and the air conditioner module are linked, the system can be configured to automatically activate the air conditioner module when the temperature and humidity sensor detects humidity levels above 60%. If the five-hole module connected to the computer receives no current for three consecutive hours, the USB charging module on the same track is shut down. This enables intelligent collaboration between functional modules, rather than isolated control. This application embodiment can control the operation of any functional module and other functional modules linked to it by determining the working state based on the electrical performance data of any functional module. That is, through the independent control of functional modules and the linkage control of related functional modules, the safety of the power socket can be ensured, equipment damage and fire risk can be prevented, and the needs of modern smart life can be met, thus improving the user experience.

[0068] After obtaining the electrical performance data of any functional module, more specifically, the energy consumption and operational stability of each functional module can also be considered. Based on this, in this embodiment, optionally, controlling the on / off state of the relay connected to any functional module according to the operating state further includes: statistically analyzing the power consumption of any functional module within a preset time period based on the electrical performance data of that functional module, and determining the energy consumption of connected external devices based on the power consumption; and / or determining whether the operation of the functional module is stable based on the electrical performance data; if the energy consumption is greater than the target energy consumption or the operation of the functional module is unstable, an alarm message is pushed to a third-party application. The preset time period can be set and is not specifically limited here; preferably, it can be set to one month, i.e., 30 days. Based on the electrical performance data of any functional module, its power consumption within a preset time period can be statistically analyzed, thereby determining the energy consumption of external devices connected to that functional module within the preset time period, and also determining whether the operation of the functional module is stable, such as whether there are significant voltage fluctuations or frequency instability. If energy consumption is excessive or the operation of the functional module is unstable, an alarm message is pushed to a third-party application so that the user can be informed of the situation in a timely manner and take relevant measures. This embodiment of the application, by evaluating the energy consumption and operational stability of the functional module, can avoid damage to the equipment caused by voltage fluctuations or frequency instability, improve the user experience, and meet the intelligent needs of modern life.

[0069] Considering that temperature and humidity in the power socket can also affect its operation, in this embodiment, the method may optionally further include: detecting the temperature and humidity of the environment where the power socket is located using a temperature and humidity sensor; and controlling the on / off state of at least one functional module associated with the temperature and humidity. An integrated temperature and humidity sensor can be used, or a temperature and humidity sensor including independent temperature and humidity sensors can be used to detect the temperature and humidity of the environment where the power socket is located. When the temperature and humidity are not high, the various functional modules can be controlled to operate normally. If the temperature and humidity are too high, it is necessary to control the on / off state of functional modules closely related to temperature and humidity. For example, if the temperature and humidity sensor module and the air conditioning module are linked, the air conditioning module can be automatically turned on when the detected humidity is greater than a reference humidity of 60%. In this embodiment, the relays in the various functional modules of the power socket can also be disconnected when the temperature and humidity are too high. This embodiment detects the temperature and humidity of the power socket and controls the on / off state of related functional modules in the power socket to prevent equipment damage and fire risks caused by excessive temperature and humidity, thus ensuring the safety of the power socket.

[0070] Considering that power sockets require different functional modules for different application scenarios, to improve the flexibility of power socket combinations, dynamic adaptation and combination of functional modules can be considered. Based on this, in this embodiment, optionally, the method further includes: if any functional module is detected being added to the power socket, then searching for the control logic for adding the any functional module through a third-party application; if any functional module is detected being removed from the power socket, then hiding the control logic for the any functional module through a third-party application.

[0071] If any new functional module is detected in the power socket, open the corresponding third-party control application and enter its homepage. Locate and click the "Add Module" button on the right side of the top status bar within the application. The third-party application will automatically activate its search mode, scanning for newly connected module devices. It will quickly identify the new module type, automatically pair it, and bind it to the current socket group. Upon successful pairing, the new module's card will automatically appear in the functional module visualization area on the homepage, arranged in the same order as its physical installation. In other words, the third-party application automatically identifies and adds the control page for the module, eliminating the need for manual device addition. For example, adding a "night light module" automatically identifies and adds its control page. Conversely, removing any functional module automatically hides its control entry, preventing unnecessary operations. This enables a precise, collaborative, and personalized control experience, truly allowing remote control to adapt to the user's flexible combination needs, rather than forcing the user to conform to fixed control logic.

[0072] In one exemplary embodiment of this specification, a vehicle is also provided, the vehicle including the aforementioned power outlet. The power outlet can be fixedly installed in any possible location inside the vehicle, such as in the trunk of the vehicle, and can be directly connected to an external device when needed.

[0073] The beneficial effects of the above embodiments can be referred to the beneficial effects of the corresponding power sockets provided above, and will not be repeated here.

[0074] In the embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed apparatus and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the apparatus embodiments described above are merely illustrative; for instance, the division of modules or units is only a logical functional division, and in actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple units or components may be combined or integrated into another device, or some features may be ignored or not executed. Furthermore, the coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed may be through some interfaces; the indirect coupling or communication connection between devices or units may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms.

[0075] In the description of this disclosure, it should be understood that if the terms "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left" and "right" are used to indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the drawings, they are only for the convenience of describing the present invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the position or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this disclosure.

[0076] It should be noted that, in the embodiments of this application, relational terms such as "first" and "second" are used only to distinguish one entity or operation from another entity or operation, and do not necessarily require or imply any such actual relationship or order between these entities or operations. It should also be noted that the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further limitations, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes the element.

[0077] The above are merely embodiments of this disclosure and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Various modifications and variations can be made to this disclosure by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this disclosure should be included within the scope of the claims of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A power socket, characterized in that, The power socket includes: Socket body; Multiple functional modules are disposed in the socket body, each of the functional modules including: an interface module, a relay, and a control chip connected to the interface module and the relay; the interface module is used to connect external devices; the control chip is used to adjust the output voltage and frequency of the functional module, and the relay is used to connect or disconnect the interface module; The main controller is connected to each of the functional modules via an I2C bus and is used to control the on / off state of the relays in each of the functional modules.

2. The power socket according to claim 1, characterized in that, The functional module also includes: A metering chip, connected to the main controller, is used to collect electrical performance data of the functional modules in real time; the main controller controls the on / off state of each relay connected to each of the interface modules according to the electrical performance data.

3. The power socket according to claim 1, characterized in that, The power socket further includes a temperature and humidity sensor connected to the main controller, used to detect the temperature and humidity of the environment where the power socket is located and transmit the data to the main controller. The main controller controls the on / off state of each relay connected to each of the interface modules according to the temperature and humidity.

4. The power socket according to claim 1, characterized in that, The power socket also includes a Wi-Fi communication module connected to the main controller, through which the main controller establishes a wireless communication connection with a third-party application.

5. A method for controlling a power socket, characterized in that, Applied to a power socket as described in any one of claims 1-4; the method includes: Identify the interface type of any interface module in the functional module and the power standard of the connected external device, and adjust the output voltage and frequency of the functional module according to the interface type and the power standard; The operating status of any functional module is obtained, and the on / off state of each relay connected to the corresponding functional module and other associated functional modules is controlled according to the operating status.

6. The method according to claim 5, characterized in that, The step of identifying the interface type of any interface module in the functional module and the power standard of the connected external device, and adjusting the output voltage and frequency of the functional module according to the interface type and / or the power standard, includes: Identify the interface type with any interface module in the functional module, and the power standard of the external device connected to the interface module, the power standard including the output voltage and frequency required by the external device; The voltage standard of the interface module is determined according to the interface type, and the voltage standard is used to indicate the voltage adapted to the interface type; Voltage conversion and frequency adjustment are performed according to the voltage standard and the power supply standard to output an output voltage and frequency that meet the voltage standard and the power supply standard.

7. The method according to claim 5, characterized in that, The step of obtaining the working state of any functional module and controlling the on / off state of each relay connected to the corresponding functional module and other associated functional modules according to the working state includes: Real-time acquisition of electrical performance data of any functional module, including voltage, current and power; The operating status of any functional module is determined based on the electrical performance data. The on / off state of the relays connected to any of the functional modules is controlled according to the working state, and the on / off state of each relay connected to each of the functional modules associated with any of the functional modules is also controlled.

8. The method according to claim 5, characterized in that, The method further includes: The temperature and humidity of the environment in which the power socket is located are detected by a temperature and humidity sensor. Control the on / off state of at least one functional module associated with the temperature and humidity.

9. The method according to claim 5, characterized in that, The method further includes: If any functional module is added to the power socket, the control logic for adding the functional module is searched through a third-party application. If it is detected that any functional module has been removed from the power socket, the control logic of that functional module is hidden through a third-party application.

10. A vehicle, characterized in that, The vehicle includes a power outlet as described in any one of claims 1-4.

Images