Overload protection piece and overload protector
By directly connecting the third conductive piece of the overload protector to the second conductive piece of the switch in the socket, the problems of complex connection between the overload protector and the switch and large space occupation are solved, thereby improving the safety and reducing the cost of the socket, and making the reset button more prominent and easier to operate.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2025-03-14
- Publication Date
- 2026-03-13
AI Technical Summary
The connection between the overload protector and the switch in existing sockets is complicated, takes up a lot of space, and the reset button is not conspicuous and is easily blocked, resulting in problems with socket safety and high cost.
The third conductive piece of the overload protector is directly connected to the second conductive piece of the switch to reduce the complexity of cable routing. The overload protector and switch are set up independently, and the reset button is exposed on the socket side for easy operation.
It simplifies the internal wiring of the socket, reduces space requirements and costs, while improving safety and reliability, and makes it easier for users to operate the reset button.
Smart Images
Figure CN223993250U_ABST
Abstract
Description
[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202411668807.2, filed on November 20, 2024, entitled "Socket", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field
[0002] This disclosure relates to the field of electrical technology, and in particular to an overload protection component and an overload protector. Background Technology
[0003] With the increasing variety of electrical appliances, users may encounter socket overload situations during socket use. To improve socket safety, overload protectors are added to sockets, connected to the socket's internal circuitry. When an overload occurs, the overload protector cuts off the socket's internal circuitry, thus preventing potential danger. Utility Model Content
[0004] This disclosure provides an overload protection component and an overload protector. The technical solution of the overload protection component and the overload protector is described below.
[0005] This disclosure provides an overload protection component for connecting a target conductive plate and a non-target conductive plate of an overload protector;
[0006] The overload protection component includes a first convex bulge and a second convex bulge;
[0007] The convex surface of the first convex hull is used to abut against the target conductive sheet;
[0008] The convex surface of the second convex hull is used to connect with the non-target conductive sheet.
[0009] In one possible implementation, the overload protection element further includes a third convex hull located between the first convex hull and the second convex hull.
[0010] In one possible implementation, the protrusion direction of the third convex hull is the same as the spring-off direction when the overload protection component performs overload protection.
[0011] In one possible implementation, the third convex hull is a pot-shaped protrusion.
[0012] In one possible implementation, the convex surface of the first convex hull is connected to the target conductive sheet via a contact.
[0013] In one possible implementation, the target conductive sheet has a stationary contact, and the first convex hull has a moving contact, with the stationary contact abutting against the moving contact.
[0014] In one possible implementation, the first convex hull and the second convex hull are stamped.
[0015] In one possible implementation, the overload protection element is a bimetallic strip.
[0016] In one possible implementation, the first convex hull and the second convex hull are located at both ends of the overload protection member.
[0017] This disclosure also provides an overload protector, which includes a third conductive sheet, a fourth conductive sheet, and an overload protection element;
[0018] The overload protection component is the overload protection component described above;
[0019] Of the third and fourth conductive sheets, one is the target conductive sheet, and the other is the non-target conductive sheet.
[0020] In one possible implementation, the overload protector further includes an overload protector housing; the overload protection element is located inside the overload protector housing.
[0021] The two ends of the overload protection component are respectively connected to one end of the third conductive sheet and one end of the fourth conductive sheet.
[0022] In one possible implementation, the overload protector housing includes an overload protector bottom shell and an overload protector top cover;
[0023] The overload protector cover is fastened to the overload protector bottom shell.
[0024] In one possible implementation, the overload protector bottom shell includes a plurality of positioning holes; the overload protector top cover includes a plurality of third positioning pins, the plurality of third positioning pins extending into the plurality of positioning holes respectively.
[0025] In one possible implementation, the bottom shell of the overload protector has a first opening on its shell wall, the first opening penetrating the shell wall along the thickness direction and opening on the side facing the top cover of the overload protector.
[0026] In one possible implementation, the first opening is flared on the side facing the overload protector cover.
[0027] In one possible implementation, the overload protector cover includes a first protrusion that extends into the first opening.
[0028] In one possible implementation, the interior of the overload protector's base shell includes a first limiting groove;
[0029] The first limiting groove is used to receive the connection portion between the overload protection component and the non-target conductive sheet, and to limit the connection portion.
[0030] In one possible implementation, the overload protector bottom housing further includes a fourth opening;
[0031] The fourth opening penetrates the shell wall of the overload protector's bottom shell along the thickness direction and is open on the side facing the overload protector's top cover.
[0032] In one possible implementation, the fourth opening is flared on the side facing the overload protector cover.
[0033] In one possible implementation, the overload protector cover includes a second protrusion that extends into the fourth opening.
[0034] In one possible implementation, the second protrusion is cone-shaped, and its width gradually decreases along the direction away from the overload protector cover.
[0035] In one possible implementation, the overload protector cover further includes a baffle; the baffle is located outside the overload protector bottom shell and the baffle blocks a portion of the non-target conductive sheet.
[0036] The technical solution provided in this disclosure includes at least the following beneficial effects:
[0037] In the overload protection component provided in this disclosure, the first convex bulge enhances the rigidity of the location where the first convex bulge is located. Under the action of the first convex bulge, the overload protection component has relatively high rigidity, ensuring that the overload protection component only deforms instantaneously when the temperature exceeds a preset temperature threshold, thus preventing abnormal separation of the overload protection component from the target conductive sheet. The second convex bulge enhances the rigidity of the location where the second convex bulge is located, making the connection between the overload protection component and the non-target conductive sheet more secure. Attached Figure Description
[0038] Figure 1 This is an outline drawing of a socket including a single row of plug-in components provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;
[0039] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of a socket behind a concealed socket cover, provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;
[0040] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of a socket provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;
[0041] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of a switch and overload protector provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;
[0042] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a switch and overload protector provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;
[0043] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of a switch and overload protector provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;
[0044] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of an assembly method for the electrical connection of a switch and an overload protector provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;
[0045] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of a third conductive sheet provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;
[0046] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of an assembly method of a switch and an overload protector on a socket cover according to an embodiment of this disclosure;
[0047] Figure 10 This is an exploded view of an overload protector provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;
[0048] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of an overload protector provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;
[0049] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of an overload protection device, a third conductive sheet, and a fourth conductive sheet provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;
[0050] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the transformation of an overload protector from a normal state to an overload state according to an embodiment of this disclosure;
[0051] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the transformation of an overload protector from a normal state to an overload state according to an embodiment of this disclosure;
[0052] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the first step in assembling an overload protector according to an embodiment of this disclosure;
[0053] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of the second step in assembling an overload protector according to an embodiment of this disclosure;
[0054] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of the second step in assembling an overload protector according to another embodiment of this disclosure;
[0055] Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram of the third step in assembling an overload protector according to an embodiment of this disclosure;
[0056] Figure 19 This is a schematic diagram of the fourth step in assembling an overload protector according to an embodiment of this disclosure;
[0057] Figure 20 This is a top view of an overload protector with its cover concealed, as provided in an embodiment of this disclosure.
[0058] Figure 21 This is a schematic diagram of an overload protector cover provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;
[0059] Figure 22 This is a schematic diagram of the fifth step in assembling an overload protector according to an embodiment of this disclosure;
[0060] Figure 23 This is a schematic diagram of the socket surface of a socket including a double-row plug assembly provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;
[0061] Figure 24 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of another socket provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;
[0062] Figure 25 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of another socket provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;
[0063] Figure 26 This is a schematic diagram of the socket surface of a socket including a single row of plug-in components provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;
[0064] Figure 27 This is a schematic diagram of the socket surface of a socket including a double-row plug assembly provided in an embodiment of this disclosure.
[0065] Legend:
[0066] 1. Socket housing; 11. Socket bottom housing; 12. Socket top cover; 121. Support post; 122. First positioning post; 123. Second positioning post; 124. Switch button hole; 125. Reset button hole.
[0067] 2. Connector assembly; 21. First pole socket; 22. Second pole socket; 23. Third pole socket;
[0068] 3. Switch; 30. Switch housing; 301. First positioning pin; 31. First conductive sheet; 32. Second conductive sheet; 320. Metal sheet; 321. Extension section; 322. First connecting section; 33. Button.
[0069] 4. Overload protector; 41. Overload protector housing; 41a. Overload protector bottom shell; 41b. Overload protector top cover; 411. Base plate; 412. Top plate; 4121. Second positioning pin; 413. First side plate; 4131. First opening; 414. Second side plate; 415. First limiting groove; 416. Channel; 4161. Second opening; 4162. Third opening; 417. Second opening; 418. Positioning hole; 419. Third positioning pin; 4110. Reset rod through hole; 4111. First protrusion; 411 2. Second protrusion; 4113. Baffle; 4114. Receiving groove; 42. Overload protection component; 421. First protrusion; 422. Second protrusion; 423. Third protrusion; 43. Third conductive sheet; 431. Second connecting section; 44. Fourth conductive sheet; 45. Reset assembly; 450. Reset button; 451. Reset rod; 4511. Rod body; 4510. Spring abutment; 4512. Rib; 4513. First limiting rib; 4514. Second limiting rib; 452. Elastic component; 46. Sealing plug; 461. Through hole;
[0070] 5. Power cord; 51. First pole cable; 52. Second pole cable; 53. Third pole cable;
[0071] 6. Indicator lights;
[0072] X, length direction; Y, width direction; Z, thickness direction; I, centerline.
[0073] The accompanying drawings have illustrated specific embodiments of this disclosure, which will be described in more detail below. These drawings and descriptions are not intended to limit the scope of the concept in any way, but rather to illustrate the concepts of this disclosure to those skilled in the art through reference to particular embodiments. Detailed Implementation
[0074] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this disclosure clearer, the embodiments of this disclosure will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[0075] In recent years, with the continuous improvement of living standards, users' demands for electrical equipment have also become increasingly diverse. During the use of sockets, users often experience socket overload. Socket overload can, in severe cases, cause fires, which is extremely dangerous. Therefore, to improve socket safety, overload protectors are added to sockets. The overload protector is connected to the socket's internal circuitry; when an overload occurs, the overload protector cuts off the socket's internal circuitry, thus preventing danger.
[0076] In related technologies, some sockets have integrated switches, allowing users to control the power supply by pressing a button. Adding an overload protector to a socket with a switch presents two main challenges. One approach is to connect the switch and overload protector together with a cable, which complicates the internal wiring. Furthermore, the overload protector and the additional cable require significant space, necessitating modifications to the socket housing and increasing costs. Another approach is to integrate the switch and overload protector; however, this makes it difficult to replace each component independently; if one fails, both must be replaced.
[0077] Furthermore, the reset button of overload protectors in related technologies is often exposed on the side of the socket. On the one hand, the reset button's location is inconspicuous, making it difficult to remind the user to press it after the socket is overloaded. On the other hand, sometimes the socket is placed against a wall, which may prevent the reset button from popping out due to the wall's obstruction after an overload, posing a significant danger.
[0078] In view of the above-mentioned technical problems, this disclosure provides a socket. Figure 1 A diagram showing the outline of the socket is provided. Figure 2 and Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the socket's internal structure is shown. (For example...) Figures 1-3 As shown, the socket includes a socket housing 1, a plug assembly 2, a switch 3, and an overload protector 4. The plug assembly 2, the switch 3, and the overload protector 4 are fixed to the socket housing 1. Figures 4-6 A schematic diagram of switch 3 and overload protector 4 is shown. Figures 3-6 As shown, switch 3 includes a first conductive piece 31 and a second conductive piece 32. Switch 3 is used to control the connection and disconnection of the circuit between the first conductive piece 31 and the second conductive piece 32. Overload protector 4 includes a third conductive piece 43 and a fourth conductive piece 44. When overload protector 4 is overloaded, the circuit between the third conductive piece 43 and the fourth conductive piece 44 is disconnected. The third conductive piece 43 is in contact with and connected to the second conductive piece 32. One of the first conductive piece 31 and the fourth conductive piece 44 is connected to the power supply line, and the other is electrically connected to the plug-in assembly 2.
[0079] Among them, such as Figure 1As shown, the socket housing 1 includes a socket bottom shell 11 and a socket top cover 12. The socket top cover 12 includes a socket facet. A plug assembly 2 is used to mate a plug, and the plug assembly 2 includes a protective door assembly and a corresponding socket sleeve. Each plug assembly 2 is used to mate at least one plug, which is a two-prong or three-prong plug. The switch 3 includes a switch button 33, which is exposed on the socket facet of the socket housing 1, allowing the user to control the connection / disconnection between the first conductive piece 31 and the second conductive piece 32 by pressing the switch button 33. This embodiment does not limit the implementation of the circuit between the first conductive piece 31 and the second conductive piece 32; for example, existing switch 3 structures can be used.
[0080] The technical solutions provided in the embodiments of this disclosure, such as Figure 3 As shown, when the socket is overloaded, the circuit between the third conductive piece 43 and the fourth conductive piece 44 of the overload protector 4 is broken, which in turn breaks the circuit between the socket's plug assembly 2 and the power cord 5. This reduces the possibility of the socket becoming dangerous.
[0081] Furthermore, by setting the third conductive piece 43 of the overload protector 4 to be in direct contact and electrically connected to the second conductive piece 32 of the switch 3, instead of being connected via a cable, the complexity of the wiring inside the socket is reduced. This also allows the overload protector 4 and the switch 3 to be closer together, reducing the space required for both. This means that the socket housing 1 can be accommodated without increasing its size, thus lowering the socket cost. Additionally, by setting the overload protector 4 and the switch 3 as two independent devices, rather than integrating them, if one of the overload protector 4 or the switch 3 fails, only the damaged device needs to be replaced, without replacing both, which also reduces the socket cost.
[0082] In some examples, such as Figure 3 As shown, the power cord 5 includes a first pole cable 51 and a second pole cable 52; the plug assembly 2 includes a first pole socket 21 and a second pole socket 22. The first pole can be an L pole, and the second pole can be an N pole. One of the first conductive piece 31 and the fourth conductive piece 44 can be connected to the first pole cable 51, and the other can be electrically connected to the first pole socket 21.
[0083] The plug-in assembly 2 may include a first copper strip, on which a first plug sleeve 21 is provided. Then, the first conductive piece 31 or the fourth conductive piece 44 can achieve electrical connection with the first plug sleeve 21 by directly contacting the first copper strip.
[0084] This disclosure does not limit the arrangement of the switch 3 and the overload protector 4 inside the socket housing 1. In some examples, such as Figure 2and Figure 3 As shown, along the length X of the socket, the overload protector 4 is arranged between the plug assembly 2 and the switch 3; the first conductive piece 31 is connected to the power line 5, and the fourth conductive piece 44 is electrically connected to the plug assembly 2. This fully utilizes the space between the plug assembly 2 and the switch 3, improving the space utilization rate inside the socket housing 1. Furthermore, no major modifications are needed to other parts of the socket housing 1, reducing costs. It should be noted that since the overload protector 4 can be arranged within the space between the existing plug assembly 2 and the switch 3, only a corresponding fixing structure needs to be installed on the socket housing 1 to fix the overload protector 4, without changing other structures on the socket housing 1 or the layout of other components within the socket housing 1.
[0085] In other examples, such as Figure 25 As shown, along the length X of the socket, the switch 3 is arranged between the overload protector 4 and the plug assembly 2. The fourth conductive piece 44 is connected to the power cord 5, and the first conductive piece 31 is electrically connected to the plug assembly 2. Of course, the switch 3 and the overload protector 4 can also be arranged in other ways inside the socket housing 1; this embodiment does not specifically limit this arrangement.
[0086] In some examples, such as Figure 1 , Figure 23 and Figures 26-27 As shown, the switch button 33 of switch 3 and the reset button 450 of overload protector 4 are exposed on the socket surface of socket housing 1. This design makes the reset button 450 more prominent, reminding the user to press it. Furthermore, the reset button 450 is located on the socket surface, which is not obstructed (otherwise, the plug could not be inserted), thus reducing the likelihood that the reset button 450 will fail to pop out after an overload.
[0087] In some examples, such as Figure 1 , Figure 23 and Figures 26-27 As shown, the switch button 33 and the reset button 450 are located on the central axis I of the socket. This central axis I extends along the length X of the socket. This makes the socket more aesthetically pleasing.
[0088] In some examples, such as Figure 1 and Figure 23 As shown, along the length X of the socket, the reset button 450 is arranged between the switch button 33 and the plug assembly 2. In other examples, such as Figures 26-27 As shown, along the length X of the socket, the switch button 33 is arranged between the reset button 450 and the plug assembly 2.
[0089] This disclosure does not limit the location of the third conductive piece 43 on either side of the overload protector 4. Since the overload protector 4 and the switch 3 are arranged along the length direction X, the overload protector 4 should not have a large dimension in the length direction X. Otherwise, it may be necessary to increase the dimension of the socket housing 1 in the length direction X. Therefore, in some examples, such as... Figure 3 As shown, the exposed portion of the third conductive sheet 43 is located on one side of the overload protector 4 in the width direction Y of the socket.
[0090] In some examples, such as Figure 4 As shown, the overload protector 4 includes an overload protector housing 41. A portion of the third conductive piece 43 is located inside the overload protector housing 41, and another portion passes through the overload protector housing 41 on one side of the socket width direction Y, and contacts and is electrically connected to the second conductive piece 32.
[0091] For example, such as Figure 6 As shown, the overload protector housing 41 includes: a base plate 411, a top plate 412, two first side plates 413, and two second side plates 414. The two first side plates 413 are arranged opposite each other along the length direction X of the socket. The two second side plates 414 are arranged opposite each other along the width direction Y of the socket. A third conductive piece 43 passes through either of the two second side plates 414 and contacts and is electrically connected to the second conductive piece 32.
[0092] In some examples, such as Figure 3 As shown, the second pole cable 52 passes around the outside of one of the two second side plates 414 and connects to the second pole socket 22 of the plug assembly 2. The third conductive piece 43 then passes through the other of the two second side plates 414. Thus, the third conductive piece 43 and the second pole cable 52 are respectively arranged on both sides of the overload protector 4. This avoids interference between the second pole cable 52 and the third conductive piece 43, improving the reliability of the socket.
[0093] In some examples, such as Figure 3 As shown, the power cord 5 also includes a third pole cable 53. The second pole cable 52 and the third pole cable 53 pass around the outside of the same second side plate 414 and are respectively connected to the second pole socket 22 and the third pole socket 23 of the plug-in assembly 2. This avoids interference between the third pole cable 53 and the third conductive piece 43, improving the reliability of the socket. The third pole is the E pole.
[0094] In some examples, such as Figure 6As shown, the switch 3 includes a switch housing 30, a portion of a second conductive piece 32 located inside the switch housing 30, and another portion passing through the side plate of the switch housing 30 towards the overload protector 4. The other portion of the second conductive piece 32 includes a connected extension section 321 and a first connecting section 322. The extension section 321 is arranged between the switch 3 and the overload protector 4. The extension section 321 extends along the width direction Y of the socket and is vertically arranged along the height direction Z. The first connecting section 322 bends relative to the extension section 321 towards the second side plate 414 through which the third conductive piece 43 passes, and contacts and connects with the third conductive piece 43.
[0095] The technical solution provided in this disclosure, by setting the extension segment 321 to extend along the width direction Y of the socket and to be vertically arranged along the height direction Z, is beneficial to reduce the distance between the overload protector 4 and the switch 3, and to reduce the size occupied by the overload protector 3 and the switch 3 in the length direction X.
[0096] In some examples, such as Figure 6 As shown, the first connecting segment 322 is located on one side of the second side plate 414 along the width direction Y.
[0097] In some examples, such as Figure 6 As shown, the fourth conductive piece 44 passes through the first side plate 413 facing away from the switch 3. The first conductive piece 31 passes through the switch housing 30 of the switch 3 facing away from the overload protector 4. This facilitates the connection of the first conductive piece 31 to the power cord 5 and the fourth conductive piece 44 to the plug-in assembly 2. Alternatively, the first conductive piece 31 can be connected to the plug-in assembly 2, and the fourth conductive piece 44 can be connected to the power cord 5.
[0098] This disclosure does not limit the connection method between the second conductive piece 32 of the switch 3 and the third conductive piece 43 of the overload protector 4. In some examples, the second conductive piece 32 includes a first connecting segment 322, and the third conductive piece 43 includes a second connecting segment 431. The first connecting segment 322 and the second connecting segment 431 are welded together.
[0099] In other examples, such as Figure 4 and Figure 6 As shown, one of the first connecting section 322 and the second connecting section 431 is a sleeve, and the other is a blade. The sleeve holds the blade. In this way, the first connecting section 322 and the second connecting section 431 are detachable, which facilitates the separation of the switch 3 and the overload protector 4 after the switch 3 or the overload protector 4 is damaged (so that the blade can be pulled out from the sleeve), and the switch 3 or the overload protector 4 can be replaced independently.
[0100] It is understandable that if the first connecting segment 322 and the second connecting segment 431 are welded, then unwelding the first connecting segment 322 and the second connecting segment 431 would be a rather cumbersome operation. Of course, the technical solutions provided in this disclosure do not exclude the use of the technical solution of welding the first connecting segment 322 and the second connecting segment 431.
[0101] In some examples, such as Figure 4 As shown, the first connecting segment 322 is a insert, and the second connecting segment 431 is a sleeve. This reduces the complexity of the second conductive sheet 32.
[0102] This disclosure does not limit the orientation of the socket opening in its embodiments; in some examples, such as... Figure 6 As shown, the opening of the socket faces the bottom of the socket housing 1. Thus, as... Figure 7 As shown, during the assembly of switch 3 and overload protector 4, the overload protector 4 is first installed on the socket cover 12. Then, according to... Figure 7 Following the arrow direction, install switch 3 on socket cover 12. During installation, the insert gradually extends into the socket sleeve.
[0103] In addition, to increase the clamping force of the socket holding the prongs and thus improve the reliability of the electrical connection between the socket and the prongs, in some examples, such as Figure 8 As shown, the insert comprises two layers of metal sheets 320. That is, the insert is formed by folding two layers of metal sheets 320. In this way, the insert has a larger thickness, which makes it easier to increase the clamping force of the insert sleeve.
[0104] To improve the smoothness of the insertion process of the insert into the socket, in some examples, such as Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, two metal sheets 320 are folded to form a insert, and the bent portions 3201 of the two metal sheets 320 are close to the socket cover 12. The bent portions 3201 have rounded corners. Thus, during the installation of the switch 3 onto the socket cover 12, the bent portions 3201 first abut against the socket sleeve and open it. Because the bent portions 3201 have rounded corners, they can open the socket sleeve relatively smoothly.
[0105] Additionally, before the insert opens the sleeve, the insert drives the sleeve to move towards the socket cover 12. To prevent excessive deformation of the sleeve under the action of the insert, in some examples, such as... Figure 7 As shown, the socket cover 12 includes a support post 121 that abuts against the socket sleeve. This design, with the support post 121 abutting against the socket sleeve, prevents excessive deformation of the socket sleeve under the drive of the insert. Figure 7 Only a portion of the socket cover 12 is shown in the image.
[0106] The following is an exemplary description of the positioning of switch 3 and overload protector 4 in socket housing 1.
[0107] Figure 9 The diagram illustrates the positioning of switch 3 and overload protector 4 on the socket cover 12. In some examples, such as... Figure 9 As shown, the socket cover 12 includes a plurality of first positioning posts 122 and a plurality of second positioning posts 123. The plurality of first positioning posts 122 abut against the switch 3, and the plurality of second positioning posts 123 abut against the overload protector 4.
[0108] in, Figure 9 Only a portion of the socket cover 12 is shown to allow observation of the first positioning post 122 and the second positioning post 123. The socket cover 12 includes a switch button hole 124 through which the switch button 33 passes, and a reset button hole 125 through which the reset button 450 passes.
[0109] In some examples, such as Figure 9 As shown, the switch 3 includes multiple first positioning pins 301, and the overload protector 4 includes multiple second positioning pins 4121. Both the multiple first positioning pins 122 and the multiple second positioning pins 123 are cylindrical, with the multiple first positioning pins 301 extending into the multiple first positioning pins 122 and the multiple second positioning pins 4121 extending into the multiple second positioning pins 123. Thus, the multiple first positioning pins 122 and the multiple first positioning pins 301 achieve the positioning of the switch 3 on the socket cover 12. Similarly, the multiple second positioning pins 123 and the multiple second positioning pins 4121 achieve the positioning of the overload protector 4 on the socket cover 12.
[0110] Of course, in other examples, the switch 3 may include multiple first grooves, and the overload protector 4 may include multiple second grooves. Multiple first positioning pins 122 extend into the multiple first grooves of the switch 3 to position the switch 3 on the socket cover 12. Multiple second positioning pins 123 extend into the multiple second grooves of the overload protector 4 to position the overload protector 4 on the socket cover 12.
[0111] The following is an exemplary explanation of the principle by which the overload protector 4 implements overload protection.
[0112] Figure 10 An exploded view of the overload protector 4 is shown. Figure 11 and Figure 12 A schematic diagram is shown showing the overload protector 4 changing from a normal state to an overload state.
[0113] like Figure 10As shown, the overload protector 4 includes: an overload protector housing 41 (comprising a bottom housing 41a and an upper cover 41b), an overload protection element 42, a third conductive sheet 43, and a fourth conductive sheet 44. The overload protection element 42 is located inside the overload protector housing 41, and its two ends are connected to one end of the third conductive sheet 43 and one end of the fourth conductive sheet 44, respectively. The overload protection element 42 is connected to the target conductive sheet of the third conductive sheet 43 and the fourth conductive sheet 44 via contacts. That is, the target conductive sheet can be either the third conductive sheet 43 or the fourth conductive sheet 44. For example, the target conductive sheet is the third conductive sheet 43, meaning that the third conductive sheet 43 is connected to the overload protection element 42 via contacts. For instance, the third conductive sheet 43 has a stationary contact, and the overload protection element 42 has a moving contact; the stationary contact abuts against the moving contact.
[0114] The overload protection element 42 can be a bimetallic strip. A bimetallic strip is composed of two metals with different coefficients of thermal expansion. When current flows through it, the bimetallic strip bends and deforms due to the heat generated by the current. Thus, when the overload protector 4 is overloaded, the bimetallic strip deforms due to the increased temperature and separates from the third conductive strip 43 or the fourth conductive strip 44 (for example, separating from the third conductive strip 43), thereby cutting off the power supply and reducing the possibility of danger.
[0115] In some examples, such as Figure 11 and Figure 12 As shown, the overload protection element 42 extends along the width direction Y of the socket and is vertically arranged in the height direction Z of the socket. This results in a smaller size of the overload protection element 42 in the length direction X of the socket, which in turn makes the size of the overload protector 4 in the length direction X smaller, facilitating the arrangement of the overload protector 4 and the switch 3 along the length direction X of the socket. Furthermore, by setting the overload protection element 42 to extend along the width direction Y of the socket, rather than along the height direction Z, it is beneficial for the third conductive piece 43 and the fourth conductive piece 44 to be at a suitable height. Of course, the overload protection element 42 provided in this embodiment does not exclude the technical solution of extending along the height direction Z of the socket.
[0116] The following description uses a bimetallic strip as an example to illustrate the overload protection component 42. Because the bimetallic strip is relatively thin (e.g., less than 0.2 mm), its rigidity is relatively low, making it prone to separation from the target conductive sheet even with slight temperature changes.
[0117] Therefore, such as Figure 12As shown, the bimetallic strip includes a first protrusion 421, which is stamped to enhance the rigidity of the location of the first protrusion 421 on the bimetallic strip. The convex surface of the first protrusion 421 is used to abut against the target conductive sheet (such as the third conductive sheet 43). For example, the convex surface of the first protrusion 421 includes a moving contact. In this way, under the action of the first protrusion 421, the bimetallic strip has relatively high rigidity, so that the bimetallic strip will only deform instantaneously when the temperature is higher than a preset temperature threshold, thus preventing abnormal separation of the bimetallic strip from the target conductive sheet.
[0118] In addition, such as Figure 12 As shown, the bimetallic strip also includes a second protrusion 422, which is stamped to enhance the rigidity of the bimetallic strip at the location of the second protrusion 422. The convex surface of the second protrusion 422 is used to connect (e.g., weld) with a non-target conductive sheet (such as the fourth conductive sheet 44) to make the connection between the bimetallic strip and the fourth conductive sheet 44 more secure.
[0119] like Figure 12 As shown, the bimetallic strip also includes a third convex hull 423, which is located between the first convex hull 421 and the second convex hull 422. The third convex hull 423 is pot-shaped, hence the bimetallic strip is also called a pot-shaped sheet. In some examples, such as... Figure 12 As shown, the protrusion direction of the third convex hull 423 is the same as the spring-off direction (or separation direction) of the bimetallic strip.
[0120] To ensure that users can continue to use the socket after the overload condition is eliminated, such as Figure 10 As shown, the overload protector 4 also includes a reset assembly 45. The reset assembly 45 is configured to remain disconnected from the target conductive plate after the overload protector 42 is disconnected. When the reset assembly 45 is triggered by the user, it reconnects the overload protector 42 to the target conductive plate. A portion of the reset assembly 45 is exposed on the socket surface, and this exposed portion forms a reset button 450.
[0121] The implementation of the reset component 45 will be described below by way of example. Figure 13 and Figure 14 A schematic diagram is shown illustrating the transition of overload protector 4 from its normal state to its overload state. In some examples, such as... Figure 13 and Figure 14 As shown, the reset assembly 45 includes a reset lever 451 and an elastic member 452. A portion of the reset lever 451 is located inside the overload protector housing 41, and another portion is located outside the overload protector housing 41, exposed on the socket side of the receptacle. The exposed portion forms a reset button 450. The elastic member 452 is located inside the overload protector housing 41 and abuts against the reset lever 451. The elastic member 452 is in a compressed state.
[0122] In some examples, the reset lever 451 is slidably connected to the overload protector housing 41, and the sliding direction is along the height direction Z of the socket.
[0123] like Figure 13 and Figure 14 As shown, when the overload protector 4 changes from a normal state to an overload state, the overload protection element 42 (bimetallic strip) deforms due to the increase in temperature and separates from the target conductive sheet (such as the third conductive sheet 43) to cut off the power supply. After the overload protection element 42 separates from the third conductive sheet 43, under the drive of the elastic element 452, the reset rod 451 is inserted between the overload protection element 42 and the third conductive sheet 43. This prevents the overload protection element 42 from rebounding and contacting the third conductive sheet 43 again due to the temperature drop before the overload condition is eliminated. That is, the reset assembly 45 is used to prevent the overload protection element 42 from automatically contacting the third conductive sheet 43 again after the overload protection element 42 separates from the third conductive sheet 43.
[0124] according to Figure 13 and Figure 14 Observe in the opposite direction of the arrow Figure 13 and Figure 14 Once the overload condition is eliminated, the user presses the reset lever 451. The reset lever 451 compresses the elastic element 452 and is pulled away from the overload protector 42 and the third conductive piece 43. The overload protector 42 then loses the obstruction of the reset lever 451. As the temperature of the overload protector 42 has decreased, it automatically rebounds and re-engages with the third conductive piece 43. The circuit between the third conductive piece 43 and the fourth conductive piece 44 is then connected, and the overload protector 4 returns to its normal state. The user can then use the socket normally.
[0125] The form of the reset lever 451 will be described below by way of example.
[0126] In some examples, such as Figure 13 As shown, the reset lever 451 includes a lever body 4511 and a baffle 4512. A portion of the lever body 4511 is located inside the overload protector housing 41 and abuts against the elastic member 452. Another portion is located outside the overload protector housing 41 and is exposed on the socket face of the socket housing 1. The baffle 4512 is connected to one side of the lever body 4511 and is used to insert between the contacts of the overload protector 42 and the target conductive plate.
[0127] In some examples, such as Figure 12 As shown, the convex surfaces of the first convex 421 and the second convex 422 face the first side, so the reset rod 451 is located on the first side of the overload protection member 42 to improve space utilization.
[0128] The assembly process of the overload protector 4 will be described below by way of example. Furthermore, the corresponding assembly structure will be described by way of example in conjunction with the assembly process of the overload protector 4.
[0129] First step, such as Figure 15 As shown, the overload protection component 42 and the fourth conductive sheet 44, which are connected together, are assembled together into the overload protector base shell 41a.
[0130] In some examples, such as Figure 15 As shown, the bottom shell 41a of the overload protector has a first opening 4131 on its shell wall. The first opening 4131 penetrates the shell wall along the thickness direction and is open on the side facing the top cover 41b of the overload protector. During the first step of assembly, the fourth conductive plate 44 is aligned with the first opening 4131. When the fourth conductive plate 44 moves to contact the bottom of the first opening 4131, the first step of assembly is completed.
[0131] In some examples, such as Figure 15 As shown, the first opening 4131 is flared on the side facing the overload protector cover 41b to improve the smoothness of the fourth conductive sheet 44 being inserted into the first opening 4131.
[0132] In addition, such as Figure 15 As shown, the interior of the overload protector bottom shell 41a includes a first limiting groove 415. The first limiting groove 415 is used to receive the connection part of the overload protector 42 and the fourth conductive sheet 44, and to limit the connection part to prevent the overload protector 42 and the fourth conductive sheet 44 from separating.
[0133] The second step, as Figure 16 and Figure 17 As shown, the reset rod 451 is installed into the bottom shell 41a of the overload protector.
[0134] In some examples, such as Figure 16 and Figure 17 As shown, the reset rod 451 includes an elastic abutment portion 4510, a first limiting rib 4513, a second limiting rib 4514, and a partition rib 4512. The first limiting rib 4513 and the second limiting rib 4514 are fixed to the side wall of the elastic abutment portion 4510, and the partition rib 4512 is connected to the second limiting rib 4514.
[0135] The overload protector's base shell 41a includes a channel 416 for accommodating the elastic member abutment portion 4510 and the elastic member 452. The channel wall of channel 416 includes a second opening 4161 and a third opening 4162. The second opening 4161 receives a first limiting rib 4513, and the third opening 4162 receives a second limiting rib 4514. When the first limiting rib 4513 and the second limiting rib 4514 extend into the second opening 4161 and the third opening 4162 respectively, the reset rod 451 completes circumferential limiting.
[0136] The third step, as Figure 18 As shown, the third conductive sheet 43 is installed into the bottom shell 41a of the overload protector.
[0137] In some examples, such as Figure 18 As shown, the overload protector base shell 41a includes a fourth opening 417, which penetrates the shell wall of the overload protector base shell 41a along its thickness direction and is open on the side facing the overload protector top cover 41b. When assembling the third conductive sheet 43, the third conductive sheet 43 is aligned with the fourth opening 417. Assembly is complete when the third conductive sheet 43 moves to contact the bottom of the fourth opening 417. Simultaneously, the third conductive sheet 43 abuts against the overload protection component 42.
[0138] In some examples, such as Figure 18 As shown, the fourth opening 417 is flared on the side facing the overload protector cover 41b to improve the smoothness of the insertion of the third conductive sheet 43 into the fourth opening 417.
[0139] Step four, as Figure 19 As shown, the overload protector cover 41b is fastened to the overload protector base 41a. In some examples, such as... Figure 19 and Figure 20 As shown, the overload protector base 41a includes multiple positioning holes 418. (As indicated...) Figure 19 and Figure 21 As shown, the overload protector cover 41b includes a plurality of third positioning pins 419, which extend into a plurality of positioning holes 418 respectively.
[0140] In some examples, such as Figure 20 and Figure 21 As shown, the cross-section of the locating hole 418 is square. The cross-section of the third locating pin 419 is circular. The third locating pin 419 and the locating hole 418 can be an interference fit.
[0141] In some examples, such as Figure 20 and Figure 21As shown, there are four positioning holes 418, which are located at the four corners of the overload protector bottom shell 41a. There are also four third positioning pins 419, which are located at the four corners of the overload protector top cover 41b.
[0142] In some examples, such as Figure 21 As shown, the overload protector cover 41b includes a reset rod through hole 4110, through which the reset rod 451 passes.
[0143] In some examples, such as Figure 21 As shown, the overload protector cover 41b includes a first protrusion 4111 that extends into a first opening 4131. In some examples, such as Figure 21 As shown, the overload protector cover 41b includes a second protrusion 4112 that extends into a fourth opening 417. In some examples, such as Figure 21 As shown, the first protrusion 4111 is elongated. The second protrusion 4112 is conical, and its width gradually decreases along the direction away from the overload protector cover 41b.
[0144] In some examples, such as Figure 19 and Figure 21 As shown, the overload protector cover 41b also includes a baffle 4113. The baffle 4113 is located outside the overload protector bottom shell 41a, and the baffle 4113 obstructs a portion of the fourth conductive sheet 44. Thus, as... Figure 3 As shown, the baffle 4113 separates the second pole socket 22 from the fourth conductive sheet 44, which can prevent abnormal conduction between the two and prevent danger caused by the electrical gap being too small.
[0145] Fifth step, as Figure 22 As shown, the elastic element 452 is assembled into the channel 416, with one end abutting against the reset rod 51. When the channel 416 is blocked by the sealing plug 46, the other end of the elastic element 452 abuts against the sealing plug 46, thereby achieving the limiting of the elastic element 452.
[0146] In some examples, such as Figure 22 As shown, the overload protector base 41a includes a receiving groove 4114, and the bottom of the receiving groove 4114 is connected to a channel 416. The sealing plug 46 is interference-fitted with the receiving groove 4114.
[0147] In some examples, such as Figure 22 As shown, the cross-section of the receiving groove 4114 is square, and the cross-section of the sealing plug 46 is circular. In some examples, such as Figure 22 As shown, to facilitate the deformation of the sealing plug 46, the sealing plug 46 is provided with a through hole 461 extending along the axial direction. Alternatively, the sealing plug 46 may be described as being cylindrical.
[0148] Apart from Figure 1 and Figure 2 In addition to the socket shown, which includes a single row of plug-in components 2 (or sockets), the socket provided in this disclosure embodiment can also be... Figure 23 , Figure 24 and Figure 27 The socket shown includes two rows of plug components 2 (or sockets).
[0149] In addition, such as Figure 1 As shown, the socket also includes indicator lights 6, and indicator lights 6 and switches 3 (or overload protectors 4) are arranged at both ends of the socket along the length direction X.
[0150] Although the present invention has been described in detail above with general descriptions and specific embodiments, modifications or improvements can be made to it, which will be obvious to those skilled in the art. Therefore, all such modifications or improvements made without departing from the spirit of the present invention fall within the scope of protection claimed by the present invention.
Claims
1. An overload protection member, characterized in that The overload protection piece is used for connecting a target conductive sheet and a non-target conductive sheet of an overload protector; The overload protection piece comprises a first convex block (421) and a second convex block (422); The convex surface of the first convex block (421) is used for abutting against the target conductive sheet; The convex surface of the second convex block (422) is used for connecting the non-target conductive sheet.
2. An overload protection according to claim 1, characterized in that The overload protection piece further comprises a third convex block (423) located between the first convex block (421) and the second convex block (422).
3. An overload protection according to claim 2, c h a r a c t e r i s e d i n that The protruding direction of the third convex block (423) is the same as the repelling direction when the overload protection piece plays a role of overload protection.
4. An overload protection according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that The third convex block (423) is protruded in a pot shape.
5. An overload protection according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that The convex surface of the first convex block (421) is connected with the target conductive sheet through a contact.
6. An overload protection according to claim 5, characterized in that The target conductive sheet has a static contact, and the first convex block (421) has a dynamic contact, and the static contact abuts against the dynamic contact.
7. An overload protection according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that The first convex block (421) and the second convex block (422) are formed by stamping.
8. An overload protection according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that The overload protection piece is a bimetallic sheet.
9. An overload protection according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that The first convex block (421) and the second convex block (422) are located at two ends of the overload protection piece.
10. An overload protector characterized by The overload protector comprises a third conductive sheet (43), a fourth conductive sheet (44) and an overload protection piece (42); The overload protection piece (42) is the overload protection piece according to any one of claims 1-9; One of the third conductive sheet (43) and the fourth conductive sheet (44) is the target conductive sheet, and the other is the non-target conductive sheet.
11. The overload protector of claim 10, wherein, The overload protector further comprises an overload protector shell (41); the overload protection piece (42) is located inside the overload protector shell (41); Two ends of the overload protection piece (42) are connected with one end of the third conductive sheet (43) and one end of the fourth conductive sheet (44) respectively.
12. The overload protector of claim 11, wherein, The overload protector shell (41) comprises an overload protector bottom shell (41a) and an overload protector upper cover (41b); The overload protector upper cover (41b) is buckled on the overload protector bottom shell (41a).
13. The overload protector of claim 12, wherein, The overload protector bottom shell (41a) comprises a plurality of positioning holes (418); the overload protector upper cover (41b) comprises a plurality of third positioning pins (419), and the plurality of third positioning pins (419) respectively extend into the plurality of positioning holes (418).
14. An overload protector according to claim 12 or 13, characterised in that, A first opening (4131) is arranged on the shell wall of the overload protector bottom shell (41a), the first opening (4131) penetrates the shell wall along the thickness direction and is open on the side facing the overload protector upper cover (41b).
15. The overload protector of claim 14, wherein, The first opening (4131) is in a horn shape on the side facing the overload protector upper cover (41b).
16. The overload protector of claim 14, wherein, The overload protector upper cover (41b) comprises a first protrusion (4111), and the first protrusion (4111) extends into the first opening (4131).
17. The overload protector of claim 12 or 13, wherein, The inside of the overload protector bottom shell (41a) comprises a first limiting groove (415); The first limiting groove (415) is used for receiving and limiting the connecting part of the overload protector (42) and the non-target conductive sheet.
18. The overload protector of claim 12 or 13, wherein, The overload protector bottom shell (41a) further comprises a fourth opening (417). The fourth opening (417) penetrates the shell wall of the overload protector bottom shell (41a) along the thickness direction and is open on the side facing the overload protector upper cover (41b).
19. The overload protector of claim 18, wherein, The fourth opening (417) is trumpet-shaped on the side facing the overload protector upper cover (41b).
20. An overload protector according to claim 18 or 19, characterised in that, The overload protector upper cover (41b) comprises a second protrusion (4112) extending into the fourth opening (417).
21. The overload protector of claim 20, wherein, The second protrusion (4112) is conical, and the width of the second protrusion (4112) gradually decreases in the direction away from the overload protector upper cover (41b).
22. The overload protector of claim 12 or 13, wherein, The overload protector upper cover (41b) further comprises a baffle (4113); the baffle (4113) is located outside the overload protector bottom shell (41a), and the baffle (4113) shields a part of the non-target conductive sheet.