Power Outlet Module, Power Outlet Connector Array, and Two-Part Electrical Coupling System

Abstract

The present invention relates to a power outlet module (10) comprising an electrically insulating one-piece body (12) having a base (14) and an outlet core (16) extending from the base (14). The outlet core (16) has a number of recesses (18A1-18A3, 18B1-18B3) extending in a longitudinal direction thereof. The power outlet module (10) further comprises a number of terminals formed of a conductive material, each terminal positioned within one of the number of recesses (18A1-18A3, 18B1-18B3). The terminals each extend within a predetermined plane, and each terminal includes two legs extending parallel to each other and facing each other with a predetermined gap between them. The two legs are joined at one end to form a joint portion, and the legs are bendable in a direction parallel to the plane via the joint portion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a power outlet module, a power outlet connector row, and a two-part electrical coupling system.

[0002] Background of the Invention A power outlet connector row is an assembly of power outlets that receives power from a power source and distributes this power to one or more separate electronic devices. Each such power outlet connector row has a power input section for receiving power from the power source and a power outlet module that may be used to provide power to one or more electronic devices. Such a power outlet connector row may be used in applications and environments such as within or on an electronic equipment rack. A single power outlet connector is also called a device outlet, and a power outlet connector row is also called a power distribution unit (PDU).

[0003] Various different power outlet modules are known, and each can be connected to a plug of a corresponding compliant connector type. In one example, a so-called device outlet F (C13 connector) may be connected to a corresponding plug connector E (C14 device inlet), while a so-called device outlet J (C19 connector) may be connected to a corresponding plug connector I (C20 device inlet). According to the IEC standard, the F, E pair is designed to be used for a maximum current of 10 A, while the J, I pair is designed to be used for a maximum current of 16 A. As an example, the geometry of device outlet J prevents plug connector E from being accidentally connected to this device outlet J.

[0004] The problem in the prior art is to design a power outlet module having keying characteristics as described above, i.e., preventing incorrect coupling to an incorrect plug connector. Such keying characteristics often conflict with other requirements, such as space requirements or electrical insulation.

[0005] Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide a power outlet module, a power outlet connector series, and a two-part electrical coupling system that eliminate the pointed-out problems.

[0006] Summary of the Invention The present invention is directed to a power outlet module according to claim 1, a power outlet connector series according to claim 15, and a two-part electrical coupling system according to claim 16 that enables interaction between various different connector types.

[0007] The present invention relates to a power outlet module comprising an electrically insulating integral body having a base and an outlet core extending from the base. The outlet core comprises a plurality of recesses extending in its longitudinal direction. The power outlet module further comprises a plurality of terminals formed from a conductive material, the terminals being respectively positioned within one of the plurality of recesses. These terminals each extend within a predetermined plane, and each terminal includes two legs that extend parallel to each other with a predetermined gap therebetween and face each other. The two legs are joined at one end to form a joining portion, and the legs are bendable in a direction parallel to the plane via the joining portion.

[0008] The inventor recognizes that terminals having the specific features as described above can be arranged in a very space-saving manner. As a result, it becomes possible for a power outlet module to have a recess pattern that is yet unknown and is adapted to accommodate the male connector of a plug connector. As a specific example having features described in more detail below, a space-saving terminal enables the design of a power outlet module that can conform to various different plug connector types, for example, plugs of two plug connector types. As an example, the power outlet module according to the present invention can be designed to be alternatively connected to plug connector E when 10 A is required or to plug connector I when 16 A is required. Due to the space-saving terminals, the pattern of a total of six openings required in this case can be arranged on the front of the outlet without contacting each other. This makes it possible to provide the possibility of switching between both options while keeping the 10 A supply line and the 16 A supply line completely separated. To provide both options, only a single power outlet module is required.

[0009] The terminals respectively housed in each recess of the power outlet module extend in a (single) plane, and each terminal includes two legs that extend parallel to each other with a predetermined gap therebetween and face each other. These two legs are joined at one end thereof to form a joining portion, whereby it becomes possible to bend the legs in a direction parallel to the plane via the joining portion. With this configuration of the terminal, since the design of the terminal becomes slim, while arranging a plurality of terminals at a distance shorter than the distance known in the prior art, it is still possible to ensure a reliable electrical connection and a reliable mechanical connection with the male connector respectively, and to provide sufficient insulation and the like.

[0010] Furthermore, some of the plurality of terminals may be oriented such that their planes form a predetermined angle with each other, and more precisely, they may extend perpendicular to each other. This enables the plurality of terminals to be arranged closer to each other. Different from the prior art, in the space - limited cross - section of a given outlet core, according to the present invention, while the outlet core can be provided with an increased number of terminals, reliable engagement with the male connectors of several types of plug connectors for each plug remains possible.

[0011] In one example, the outlet core may comprise a total of six terminals. In this case, three terminals are adapted to accommodate the male connector of a plug of the first connector type, and another three terminals are adapted to accommodate the male connector of a plug of the second connector type. This configuration enables an outlet core to be provided with a number of terminals that can be engaged with various different connector types, for example, the male connectors of two types of plug connectors. In other words, a power outlet module that can be connected to a plug of the first plug connector type or a plug of the second plug connector type is proposed. As described above, the first plug connector type may be plug connector E, and the second plug connector type may be plug connector I. Both plug connector E and plug connector I have three male connector pins. In both cases, the three male connector pins are arranged in the form of an isosceles triangle. The male connector pins have an elongated cross - section. When comparing plug connector E with plug connector I, the orientation of this cross - section with respect to the base of the isosceles triangle is rotated by 90 degrees. Such a change in the orientation of the male connector pins prevents incorrect coupling. Such a change in orientation makes it difficult to arrange the corresponding openings in a single core of the power outlet module. Due to the features of the power outlet module according to the present invention, a surprisingly simple solution of integrating the recesses for plug connectors E and I within the same core becomes possible.

[0012] In one embodiment of the proposed power outlet module, the inner wall of each recess is formed with two slits extending in the axial direction of the recess so as to face each other. The terminals may be inserted into the recess from the base side of the power outlet module, more precisely from behind, and guided by the slits.

[0013] In one embodiment of the proposed power outlet module, the slits extend along the recess between the base and a position a predetermined length away from the distal end of the outlet core in part thereof. The terminals are in contact with the ends of the slits, more precisely with the abutting portions provided in the slits, so as to be able to place a sufficient distance from the distal end of the outlet core, more precisely from the front, by a predetermined length. Therefore, the requirements for electrical insulation can be complied with.

[0014] In one embodiment of the proposed power outlet module, the slits of each recess accommodate the legs of the terminals. The slits may be configured to accommodate the legs of one terminal each. In one example, at least one leg of each terminal may be provided with a bulging portion protruding into the gap defined by the leg.

[0015] In one embodiment, the proposed power outlet module further comprises means for preventing improper coupling. In one embodiment, the means for preventing improper coupling comprises at least one keying element along the circumferential surface of the outlet core. In one example, the outlet core is formed with a circumferential surface, more precisely an outer surface, configured to fit with the surface of a plug of at least one acceptable connector type, for example the inner circumferential surface of the plug. Therefore, incorrect connection, more precisely unacceptable electrical connection, can be prevented.

[0016] In one embodiment, the proposed power outlet module further comprises side walls extending from and surrounding the base. In one example, the side walls are formed with a circumferential surface configured to mate with the surface of a plug of at least one acceptable connector type, for example, the outer circumferential surface of the plug, and more precisely have an inner surface, thus preventing unacceptable electrical connections.

[0017] In one embodiment of the proposed power outlet module, the outlet core comprises a circumferential surface adapted to mate with the inner surface of a first connector type, and the side walls comprise a circumferential surface, more precisely an inner surface, adapted to mate with the outer surface of a second connector type. This embodiment provides a composite power outlet module that enables the power outlet module to be connected to a plug of the first connector type or a plug of the second connector type. As an example, the first plug connector type may be plug connector E, and the second plug connector type may be plug connector I.

[0018] In one embodiment of the proposed power outlet module, the recesses comprise a first set of recesses and a second set of recesses, the first set of recesses being arranged and dimensioned to mate with a male connector of the first connector type, and the second set of recesses being arranged and dimensioned to mate with a male connector of the second connector type. In one example, the power outlet module may comprise a total of six recesses, three recesses (e.g., the first set of recesses) arranged and dimensioned to mate with a male connector of the first plug connector type, and the remaining three recesses (e.g., the second set of recesses) arranged and dimensioned to mate with a male connector of the second plug connector type. As another exemplary example, the first plug connector type may be plug connector E, and the second plug connector type may be plug connector I. The dimensions of plug types E and I are defined by the IEC standard.

[0019] In one embodiment of the proposed power outlet module, the distal end of the outlet core defines a front face having an opening, and a recess extends into the opening. In one example, the opening and the recess may be formed continuously. In one embodiment of the proposed power outlet module, each opening is formed in a rectangular shape.

[0020] In one embodiment of the proposed power outlet module, the terminals are received within the slits of the recesses such that the plane of each terminal is perpendicular to the extension of the rectangle of the opening. This configuration, in combination with the slim design of the terminals, enables the outlet core to accommodate an increased number of terminals. Furthermore, enhanced flexibility can be achieved with respect to arranging the terminals. Further, this flexibility allows the terminals to be arranged, for example, to achieve maximum insulation between adjacent terminals.

[0021] In one embodiment of the proposed power outlet module, the terminals each comprise a pin portion extending from a coupling portion. This pin portion may extend in the same plane as the remainder of the body of the terminal. Thus, terminals that extend in a single, overall slim plane can be provided.

[0022] In one embodiment, the proposed power outlet module further comprises a lid adapted to engage the base, the lid comprising a plurality of guide paths positioned to be penetrated by the pin portions of the inserted terminals. The pin portion of each terminal may project beyond the lid on the back side of the power outlet module and may be adapted to be electrically connected to external connection means provided, for example, in a power outlet connector row. The lid securely fixes the terminals when engaged with the base of the power outlet module. While the coupling portion of each terminal may abut against the back surface of the lid already engaged with the base, the distal end of the leg abuts against the end of the slit described above, more precisely against the abutment provided in the slit. Thus, the axial movement of the terminals can be blocked by the lid already engaged with the base. The separation between the core and the lid may be designed to have various different geometries.

[0023] The present invention further relates to a power outlet connector row comprising at least one power outlet module according to any one of claims 1 to 14. A power outlet connector row comprising one or more power outlet modules according to this embodiment is provided. With this configuration, it is not necessary to provide the power outlet connector row with, for example, a plurality of generally known power outlet modules compliant with a first connector type and another plurality of generally known power outlet modules compliant with, for example, a second connector type. Therefore, more advantageously, at least space and cost can be saved and the density of the power outlet connector row can be increased without suffering from reduced connectivity. Continuing with the above example related to a single power outlet, the space occupied by the power outlet connector row according to the present invention may be used to provide a connection to a 10A system or alternatively a 16A system. A power outlet connector row installed in a server rack does not need to be replaced if the server is upgraded to a version with higher or lower power consumption and thus has a different type of plug connector from the originally installed server. The power outlet module according to the present invention may be combined with a conventional power outlet module within the same power outlet connector row. Advantageously, all power outlet modules within the connector row are power outlet modules according to the present invention.

[0024] Furthermore, the present invention is directed to a two-part electrical coupling system according to claim 16. The two-part system comprises, as a first part, a power outlet module according to the present invention or a series of power outlet connectors according to the present invention. The system comprises, as a second part, a plug detachably connectable to the first part. This plug has a male connector arranged and dimensioned to fit within a corresponding recess of the first part to form an electrical connection with a corresponding terminal. In particular, the first and second parts of the coupling system may comply with a predetermined standard, for example, the IEC standard. As an example, the first and second parts of the coupling system may be formed by a pair of a device outlet F and a plug connector E or a pair of a device outlet J and a plug connector I. The power outlet module, which is the first part of the system, may have more recesses than the male connector of the second part. Thus, another type of plug having male connectors at different positions can be alternatively connected to the first part. In the above example, connection with the plug connector E or alternatively the plug connector I may be possible.

[0025] Specifically pointed out, any combination of the above-described embodiments is the subject of further possible embodiments. Only the embodiments that may cause contradictions are excluded.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0026] The present invention will be further described with reference to the accompanying drawings that together show various exemplary embodiments that can be considered in light of the following detailed description.

Figure 1a

Figure 1b

Figure 2a

Figure 2b

Figure 3

Figure 4a

Figure 4b

Figure 5

Figure 6

[0027] Detailed Description of the Invention In FIGS. 1a and 1b, the power outlet module 10 is shown in different front views, while in FIGS. 2a and 2b, the power outlet module 10 is shown in different rear views. The power outlet module 10 may be used to supply power to an electronic device (not shown) via a plug (not shown). The power outlet module 10 includes an integral body 12 formed of an electrically insulating material, such as plastic. This integral body 12 includes a base 14 and an outlet core 16 extending from the base 14. In the examples shown in FIGS. 1a to 2b, both are integrally formed. Additional or alternative variations regarding separation are possible as described below.

[0028] The power outlet modules shown in FIGS. 1a to 2b may be regarded as a composite power module having the possibility of connecting various different plug connectors according to the requirements of the device to be connected.

[0029] The outlet core 16 includes a plurality of recesses 18A1 to 18A3, 18B1 to 18B3 extending in the longitudinal direction of the outlet core 16. Each of the recesses 18A1 to 18A3, 18B1 to 18B3 is adapted to accommodate each male connector of a plurality of male connectors, for example, a plug (not shown) having three male connectors. The outlet core 16 is adapted to engage various different connector types, for example, plugs of two types. In the illustrated example, the outlet core 16 includes six recesses 18A1 to 18A3, 18B1 to 18B3 including a first set of recesses 18A1 to 18A3 and a second set of recesses 18B1 to 18B3. The first set of recesses 18A1 to 18A3 are arranged and dimensioned to mate with the male connectors of a plug of a first connector type. The second set of recesses 18B1 to 18B3 are arranged and dimensioned to mate with the male connectors of a plug of a second connector type.

[0030] The distal end of the outlet core 16 defines a front face 20 having an opening. The recesses 18A1 to 18A3, 18B1 to 18B3 may extend into the opening. In the illustrated example, the opening has the same dimensions and orientation as the cross-sectional dimensions and orientation of the recesses 18A1 to 18A3, 18B1 to 18B3, respectively. The opening (and thus the cross-section of the recesses 18A1 to 18A3, 18B1 to 18B3) is formed in a rectangular shape. The rectangular opening of the first set of recesses 18A1 to 18A3 extends in the vertical direction, and the rectangular opening of the second set of recesses 18B1 to 18B3 extends in the horizontal direction.

[0031] The circumferential surface of the outlet core 16, more precisely the outer surface, is provided with a keying element 21. This keying element 21 may be provided with means for preventing an improper coupling, for example a coupling with an unacceptable plug. However, the keying element 21 may be formed so as to be capable of fitting with an acceptable plug. In one example, the circumferential surface of the outlet core 16 may be adapted to fit with the inner surface of the plug of each connector type, for example the first connector type, but connections with various different connector types, for example the plug of the second connector type, may be allowed, more precisely may not be excluded. However, another, for example unacceptable, coupling with a plug can be prevented by the keying element 21.

[0032] The power outlet module 10 further includes a side wall 22 extending in the same direction as the outlet core 16 from the base 14. This side wall 22 surrounds the base 14 and thus the outlet core 16. The base 14, the side wall 22, and the outlet core 16 may be integrally formed. The side wall 22 has a circumferential surface, more precisely an inner surface, which may be adapted to fit with the outer surface of a plug different from the above-described plug, for example the plug of the second connector type. However, the side wall 22 may be formed so as to allow, more precisely not to exclude, connections with various different connector types, for example the plug of the first connector type. However, another, for example unacceptable, coupling with a plug can be prevented. The distal end of the side wall 22 may be provided with a circumferentially extending flange 24, more precisely a cantilever. The outer surface of the flange 24 and the front face 20 of the outlet core 16 may be formed to be in the same plane as each other.

[0033] The recesses 18A1 to 18A3 and 18B1 to 18B3 each include inner walls 26A1 to 26A3 and 26B1 to 26B3. Each of the inner walls 26A1 to 26A3 and 26B1 to 26B3 is formed with two slits S extending in the axial direction of one of the recesses 18A1 to 18A3 and 18B1 to 18B3. Each pair of the slits S are formed, and more precisely arranged, to face each other.

[0034] As described above, in the illustrated example, the integral body 12 includes a base 14 and an outlet core 16 extending from the base 14. Both the base 14 and the outlet core 16 are integrally formed. As additional or alternative variations regarding separation, separation is possible between the base 14 and the outlet core 16, between a part of the outlet core 16 and the front face 20, or between the base 14 and the side wall 22.

[0035] FIG. 3 shows terminals 28 each adapted to be received by a pair of slits S provided in each of the recesses 18A1 to 18A3 and 18B1 to 18B3. The terminals 28 having the specific geometry shown provide extremely space-saving electrical contact elements. The terminals 28 are formed from a conductive material, such as copper or a copper alloy. Further, the terminals 28 are each formed to extend in a predetermined plane. Further, each of the terminals 28 includes two legs 30', 30'' that extend parallel to each other with a predetermined gap therebetween and face each other. These two legs 30', 30'' are joined at one end thereof to form a joining portion 32. This design enables the legs 30', 30'' to be bent, more precisely deflected, via the joining portion 32. The bending is in a direction parallel to the plane of the terminal 28. The distal ends of the legs 30', 30'' may each be provided with bulges 34', 34'', more precisely protrusions, formed to be rounded. The bulges 34', 34'' protrude inwardly and are more precisely directed to face each other.

[0036] Terminal 28 is adapted to elastically sandwich each male connector of a plug (not shown) via legs 30', 30'' so as to form an electrical connection. The male connector may be inserted into the gap defined by two bulges 34', 34'' of legs 30', 30'' and then sandwiched by sliding. Then, the bulges 34', 34'' form contact points with the male connector. Such insertion can be facilitated by forming the distal ends, more precisely the tips, of the rounded legs 30', 30''. During insertion, the male connector must pass through the gap defined by the minimum distance between the two bulges 34', 34'' facing each other. This gap may be smaller than the thickness, more precisely the depth, of the male connector, so that during insertion, the two legs 30', 30'' are bent outwardly, more precisely deflected, to such an extent that insertion of the male connector is possible. By doing so, the legs 30', 30'' are bent outwardly via the coupling portion 32 in a direction parallel to the plane of the terminal 28. Due to the restoring force, the legs 30', 30'' are tightly pressed against the inserted male connector to such an extent that a reliable mechanical and electrical connection is possible, for example via the bulges 34', 34''.

[0037] Terminal 28 further includes a pin portion 36 extending from the coupling portion 32. This pin portion 36 may extend in a direction away from the legs 30', 30'' such that the terminal 28 extends within a single plane. However, there may be several types of connection types between the terminal and the device, and for some of these connection types, the minimum clearance between different pin portions 36 is defined by each IEC standard 60320-1. To ensure the clearance, it may be necessary to tilt the pin portion within the first plane formed by the legs 30', 30'', position the pin portion 36 asymmetrically with respect to the legs 30', 30'' (within the plane still formed by the legs 30', 30''), tilt the pin portion 36 out of the first plane formed by the legs 30', 30'', or apply a combination of the three described possibilities. Thus, a slim configuration with a reduced space is achieved, enabling the outlet core 16 of the power outlet module 10 to include an increased number of terminals.

[0038] Referring again to the power outlet module body 10, the portions of the slits S formed along the inner walls 26A1 - 26A3, 26B1 - 26B3 of each of the recesses 18A1 - 18A3, 18B1 - 18B3 may extend between the base 14 and a position a predetermined length away from the distal end of the outlet core 16. Thus, enhanced insulation can be achieved.

[0039] Referring to FIGS. 2a and 2b, pairs of slits S may be arranged in the portions of the associated recesses so as to minimize interference with each other. With one configuration, a configuration enabling maximum insulation between the respectively received terminals can be achieved. The slim design of the terminals advantageously contributes to this preferred configuration.

[0040] As described above, the space-saving and slim-configured terminal 28 enables the outlet core 16 with a spatially limited cross-section to have a total of six recesses. Three of the six recesses, also called the first set of recesses 18A1 to 18A3, may extend in a direction perpendicular to the extension of the front face 20. The recesses among the first set of recesses are arranged and dimensioned to fit with the male connector of a plug of a first connector type, for example, a plug connector E (C14 equipment inlet). In this regard, the power outlet module 10 may comply with the equipment outlet F (C13 connector).

[0041] The remaining recesses 18B1 to 18B3, also called the second set of recesses, may extend in a predetermined direction with respect to the extension of the front face 20. The recesses among the second set of recesses are arranged and dimensioned to fit with the male connector of a plug of a second connector type, which may be alternatively connected to the above-mentioned plug connector E, for example, a plug connector I (C20 equipment inlet). In this regard, the power outlet module 10 may simultaneously comply with the requirements for the equipment outlet J (C19 connector) and the requirements for the equipment outlet F. The geometry of the openings and the specific arrangement of the terminals in electrical contact have the effect that the 10A electrical system (E, F pair) and the 16A electrical system (I, J pair) are properly separated. When any type of plug connector is connected to the power outlet module 10, no contact is formed between the two systems.

[0042] Referring to FIGS. 4a and 4b, the power outlet module 10 may further include a cover 38 adapted to engage with the base 14. This cover 38 can cover the base 14 from its back side when the terminals are respectively inserted into the recesses (see FIGS. 1a - 2b). When the cover 38 is engaged with the base 14, the outwardly directed surface of the cover 38 is recognized. The cover 38 is provided with a plurality of guide paths 40A1 - 40A3, 40B1 - 40B3 positioned so as to allow each pin portion 36 of the inserted terminals 28 to penetrate therethrough. For better understanding, these guide paths 40A1 - 40A3, 40B1 - 40B3 are marked with signs corresponding to the signs of the assigned recesses (see FIGS. 1a and 1b). Although not shown, alternatively, the cover 38 may be integrally formed with the base 14.

[0043] As can be seen in FIG. 4b, with the proposed configuration, it becomes possible for the pin portion 36 of each terminal 28 to project beyond the back surface of the cover 38 of the power outlet module 10. Each pin portion 36 may be electrically connected to an external connection means, such as a printed circuit board, which may be provided within a power outlet connector row (not shown).

[0044] When the cover 38 is engaged with the base 14 of the power outlet module 10, it enables secure fixation of the inserted terminals. Although not shown, for example, the coupling portion of each terminal (see FIG. 3) may abut against the back surface of the cover 38 already engaged with the base 14, while the distal end of the leg portion of each terminal (see FIG. 3) may abut against the end of the above - mentioned slit, more precisely, the abutting portion provided in the slit at the front. Thus, advantageously, the axial movement of the terminal 28 can be blocked by the cover 38 already engaged with the base 14.

[0045] FIG. 5 shows a power outlet connector row 42. The power outlet connector row may also be referred to as a power distribution unit (PDU). The power outlet connector row may be used to supply operating power to electrical equipment, for example, within computing facilities such as a data center, a server farm, etc. (not shown). Such computing facilities may include an electronic equipment rack having a rectangular or box-shaped housing, sometimes called a cabinet or rack, an assigned component for assembling the equipment, an assigned communication cable, and an assigned power distribution cable. Electronic equipment can be assembled within such a rack so that various electronic devices (e.g., network switches, routers, servers, and the like) can be vertically stacked and aligned one after another within the rack. One or more of the illustrated power outlet connector rows 42 may be used to supply power to the electronic equipment. A plurality of racks may be arranged side by side. Each rack contains a large number of electronic components and has a significant amount of assigned component wiring located both inside and outside the area occupied by the rack.

[0046] The power outlet connector row 42 includes a plurality of power outlet modules 10 that may be used to provide operating power to one or more separate electronic devices (not shown). A cord 44 is present to supply power from a power source (not shown) to the power outlet connector row 42. Each power outlet module 10 can achieve connections combined with various different connector types, for example, plugs of plug connector E or plug connector I.

[0047] This further advantageously eliminates the need to provide a plurality of power outlet modules of a first connector type and a plurality of power outlet modules of a second connector type, for example three F power outlet modules and three J power outlet modules, in the power outlet connector row 42. The power outlet connector row 42 of the present invention enables increased versatility. This is because an increased number of connections can be combined. Thus, the power outlet density inside the power outlet connector row 42 can be increased. As a result, advantageously, the density of computing devices inside the rack can be further increased.

[0048] FIG. 6 shows a cross-sectional view of a two-part electrical coupling system 46 cut in the plane indicated by arrow A-A in FIG. 1b. This two-part electrical coupling system 46 includes a power outlet module 10 and a plug 48 connected to, for example, an electronic device (not shown). The outlet module 10 includes terminals 28A1, 28A2, 28B3. Of these terminals, the terminals 28A1, 28A2 are received in recesses 18A1, 18A2 formed by the above-described first set of recesses, while the terminal 28B3 is received in a recess 18B3 formed by the above-described second set of recesses (see FIGS. 1a and 1b).

[0049] The plug 48 is received in the recesses 18A1, 18A2 and is connected to the power outlet module 10 by male connectors 50A1, 50A2 sandwiched by the terminals 28A1, 28A2. Although not shown, additional male connectors formed by the plug 48 may be received in the recess 18A3 and sandwiched by additional terminals (see FIGS. 1a and 1b). The recess 18B3 is part of a separate set of recesses, for example, part of the above-described second set of recesses.

[0050] The male connectors 50A1 and 50A2 are made of a conductive material and, when connected, form an electrical connection with the terminals 28A1 and 28A2. The portions of the male connectors 50A1 and 50A2 inside the plug 48 may be connected to electrical leads, wiring, printed circuit boards, etc. (not shown) used to supply the power received by the outlet module 10, for example, to an electronic device. Further, the plug 48 may be mechanically connected to the power outlet module 10 by a rim 52 formed by this plug 48. The rim 52 may be housed within a space defined between the outlet core 16 and the side wall 22 of the power outlet module 10. For example, the rim 52 of a plug of the first connector type may have an inner circumferential surface that matches the outer circumferential surface of the outlet core 16, as in the example shown in the figure. Alternatively, for example, the rim 52 of a plug of the second connector type may have an outer circumferential surface that matches the inner circumferential surface of the side wall 22. Thus, advantageously, plugs of two different connector types may each be connected to the power outlet module 10. Although not shown, the outlet core may further comprise means for preventing improper coupling, for example, at least one keying element along the circumferential surface of the outlet core 16. Thus, improper coupling can be prevented. As shown in FIG. 6, the two-part electrical coupling system 46 may comprise a power outlet module 10 and a plug 48. Although not shown, the two-part electrical coupling system 46 may comprise, for example, a power outlet connector row 42 as shown in FIG. 5 and a plug 48.

[0051] The present invention can include features for standard extension. For example, additional outlet geometry can be defined for use at higher temperatures, such as in the so-called "E_veryhot" version of plug connector E. In one example, additional mechanical codes can be provided to distinguish the temperature at which an outlet is approved within the range of power classes. In one example, the plug connector may have additional grooves on its outer surface as coding elements or keying elements. If the plug and the power outlet module are in the same temperature class, the groove mates with a corresponding protrusion provided on the flange of the power outlet module. Otherwise, keying cannot be achieved.

Claims

1. A power outlet module (10) comprising: an electrically insulating integral body (12) having a base (14) and an outlet core (16) extending from the base (14); the outlet core (16) having a plurality of recesses (18A1-18A3, 18B1-18B3) extending in its longitudinal direction; a plurality of terminals (28; 28A1, 28A2) formed of a conductive material, the terminals (28; 28A1, 28A2) being respectively positioned within one of the plurality of recesses (18A1-18A3, 18B1-18B3); each terminal (28; 28A1, 28A2) including two legs (30', 30'') extending parallel to each other with a predetermined gap therebetween and facing each other, the two legs (30', 30'') being joined at one end to form a joining portion (32), each terminal (28; 28A1, 28A2) extending within one plane, and the legs (30', 30'') of the terminals (28; 28A1, 28A2) being bendable or deflectable within the plane of their respective terminals (28; 28A1, 28A2) via the joining portion (32); inner walls (26A1-26A3, 26B1-26B3) of each of the recesses (18A1-18A3, 18B1-18B3) being formed with two slits (S) extending in the axial direction of the recesses (18A1-18A3, 18B1-18B3) so as to face each other; the slits (S) of each of the recesses (18A1-18A3, 18B1-18B3) accommodating the legs (30', 30'') of the terminals (28; 28A1, 28A2), the power outlet module (10).

2. The power outlet module (10) according to claim 1, wherein the slit (S) extends along the recesses (18A1-18A3, 18B1-18B3) between the base (14) and a position spaced a predetermined length from the distal end of the outlet core (16) in a part thereof.

3. The power outlet module (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 2, further comprising means (21) for preventing improper coupling.

4. The means (21) for preventing said improper coupling comprises at least one keying element (21) along the circumferential surface of said outlet core (16), the power outlet module (10) according to claim 3.

5. The power outlet module (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising side walls (22) extending from said base (14) and surrounding said base (14).

6. Said outlet core (16) comprises a circumferential surface adapted to fit with the inner surface of a first connector type, and said side wall (22) comprises a circumferential surface adapted to fit with the outer surface of a second connector type, the power outlet module (10) according to claim 5.

7. Said recesses (18A1 - 18A3, 18B1 - 18B3) comprise a first set of recesses (18A1 - 18A3) and a second set of recesses (18B1 - 18B3), said first set of recesses (18A1 - 18A3) being arranged and dimensioned to fit with a male connector of said first connector type, and said second set of recesses (18B1 - 18B3) being arranged and dimensioned to fit with a male connector of said second connector type, the power outlet module (10) according to claim 6.

8. The distal end of said outlet core (16) defines a front face having an opening, and said recesses (18A1 - 18A3, 18B1 - 18B3) extend into said opening, the power outlet module (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. Each of said openings is formed in a rectangular shape, the power outlet module (10) according to claim 8.

10. Said terminals (28) are respectively received in said slits (S) of said recesses (18A1 - 18A3, 18B1 - 18B3) such that the plane of each of said terminals (28; 28A1, 28A2) is perpendicular to the extension of the rectangle of said opening, the power outlet module (10) according to claim 9.

11. Said terminals (28; 28A1, 28A2) each comprise a pin portion (36) extending from said coupling portion (32), the power outlet module (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. The power outlet module (10) according to claim 11, further comprising a lid (38) adapted to be engaged with the base (14), the lid (38) having a plurality of guide paths (40A1 to 40A3, 40B1 to 40B3) positioned to be penetrated by the pin portions (36) of the inserted terminals (28; 28A1, 28A2).

13. A power outlet connector row (42) comprising at least one power outlet module (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

14. A two-part electrical coupling system (46), comprising, as a first part, the power outlet module (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 12 or the power outlet connector row (42) according to claim 13, and, as a second part, a plug detachably connectable to the first part, the plug (48) having male connectors (50A1, 50A2) arranged and dimensioned to fit into corresponding recesses of the first part and form an electrical connection with corresponding terminals.

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