A power outlet module, a power outlet connector bank and a two-part electrical coupling system

Abstract

The present invention relates to a power socket module (10), comprising an electrically insulating single body (12), the single body (12) comprising a base (14) and a socket core (16) extending from the base (14). The socket core (16) includes a plurality of recesses (18A1-18A3, 18B1-18B3) extending in its longitudinal direction. The power socket module (10) further includes a plurality of terminals made of conductive material, each terminal being positioned in one of the plurality of recesses (18A1-18A3, 18B1-18B3). Each terminal extends in a plane, and each terminal includes two parallel prongs facing each other with a predetermined gap between them. The two prongs merge at one end into a merging portion, the prongs being bendable in a direction parallel to this plane via the merging portion.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This invention relates to a power socket module, a power socket connector assembly, and a dual-component electrical coupling system. [Previous Technology]

[0002] A power outlet connector assembly is a component of a power outlet that receives power from a source and distributes power to one or more separate electronic appliances. Each of this power outlet connector assembly has a power input terminal for receiving power from a power source and a power outlet module for supplying power to one or more electronic appliances. This power outlet connector assembly can be used in a variety of applications and setups, such as in or on electronic equipment racks. A single power outlet connector is also called an electrical outlet, and a power outlet connector assembly is also called a power distribution unit (PDU).

[0003] Different power socket modules are known, each allowing connection to a compliant connector type plug. In one example, electrical socket F (C13 connector) can be connected to the corresponding plug connector E (C14 electrical lead), and electrical socket J (C19 connector) can be connected to the corresponding plug connector I (C20 electrical lead). According to IEC standards, this pair of F and E is designed for a maximum current of 10A, while this pair of J and I is designed for a maximum current of 16A. As an example, the geometry of electrical socket J prevents plug connector E from being incorrectly connected to it.

[0004] Under the current state of technology, designing a power socket module with the aforementioned key characteristics, i.e., preventing miscoupling to an incorrect plug connector, is a problem. This key characteristic often clashes with other requirements, such as space requirements or electrical insulation requirements.

[0005] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide a power socket module, a power socket connector assembly, and a two-component electrical coupling system that eliminate the specified problems. [Summary of the Invention]

[0006] The present invention relates to a power socket module as claimed in claim 1, a power socket connector assembly as claimed in claim 15, and a two-component electrical coupling system as claimed in claim 16, which allows interaction between different connector types.

[0007] This invention relates to a power socket module, comprising an electrically insulating single body, the single body comprising a base and a socket core extending from the base. The socket core includes a plurality of recesses extending in its longitudinal direction. The power socket module further includes a plurality of terminals made of a conductive material, each terminal being positioned in one of the plurality of recesses. Each terminal extends in a plane, and each terminal includes two parallel leads facing each other with a predetermined gap between them. The two leads merge at one end into a merged portion, the leads being bendable in a direction parallel to this plane via the merged portion.

[0008] The inventors have recognized that terminals having the specific features discussed above can be configured in a very space-saving manner. This allows power socket modules with previously unknown recessed designs to accommodate male connectors of plug connectors. As a specific example, the features are discussed in more detail below, that allow power socket modules to be designed to accommodate different plug connector types, such as plugs of two different plug connector types. As an example, the power socket module according to the invention can be designed to alternately connect to plug connector E if 10A is required, or to plug connector I if 16A is required. Due to the space-saving terminals, the total of six openings required in this case can be configured on the front surface of the socket without contacting each other. This keeps the 10A feed line and the 16A feed line completely separate, while providing the possibility of switching between the two options. Only a single power socket module is needed to provide both options.

[0009] Terminals, each housed in a recess of the power socket module, extend in a (single) plane. Each terminal includes two parallel prongs facing each other with a pre-defined gap in the middle. At one end, the two prongs merge into a merging portion to allow the prongs to bend in a direction parallel to this plane via the merging portion. Due to their slim design, the construction of these terminals allows for the arrangement of multiple terminals with a smaller distance than known in the prior art, while still allowing reliable electrical and mechanical connections to male connectors, and providing sufficient insulation, etc.

[0010] Furthermore, some of the plurality of terminals can be oriented such that their planes can be angled, or preferably extend perpendicularly to each other, further allowing for a configuration with less distance between them. In contrast to prior art, in a given space-constrained cross-section of a socket core, the present invention allows the socket core to be equipped with an increased number of terminals while still allowing reliable engagement with male connectors, namely plugs of a certain type of plug connector.

[0011] In one example, the socket core may be integrally equipped with six terminals, three of which are suitable for receiving a male connector of a first type of connector plug, and the other three terminals are suitable for receiving a male connector of a second type of connector plug. This configuration allows the socket core to have terminals that allow engagement with male connectors of different types of connectors, such as two different types of connector plugs. In other words, a power socket module is proposed that can be connected to a plug of a first type of connector or a plug of a second type of connector. As mentioned above, the first type of connector can be connector E, and the second type of connector can be connector I. Connectors E and I each have three male connector pins. In both cases, the three male connector pins are arranged in an isosceles triangle. The male connector pins have a slender cross-section. When comparing connector E and connector I, this cross-section is rotated 90 degrees relative to the orientation system of the base of the isosceles triangle. This deformation in the orientation of the male connector pins prevents incorrect coupling. This deformation in orientation makes it difficult to configure a corresponding opening in a single core of the power socket module, resulting in a power socket module according to the invention. An unexpectedly simple solution becomes possible for the integrated recess for the plug connectors E and I to enter the same core.

[0012] In an embodiment of the proposed power socket module, the inner wall of each recess is formed with two slits extending axially in the recess so that they face each other. Each terminal can be inserted into the recess and guided from the base side or more precisely from the rear of the power socket module via the slits.

[0013] In the proposed power socket module embodiment, the slit extends along the portion between the base of the recesses and a predetermined length away from the distal end of the socket core. Terminals are abutted against both ends, or more precisely, the adjacent portions of the slits, to allow a sufficient distance from the distal end, or more precisely, from the front surface of the socket core, for a predetermined length. Therefore, electrical insulation requirements are met.

[0014] In an embodiment of the proposed power socket module, each recess has a slit that receives a terminal pin. Each of these slits may be configured to facilitate receiving one of the terminals via its pin. In one example, at least one of the pins of each terminal may be provided with a protrusion extending into the portion defined by the pin.

[0015] In an embodiment, the proposed power socket module further includes means for preventing incorrect coupling. In an embodiment, the means for preventing incorrect coupling includes at least one key element along the periphery of the socket core. In one example, the socket core is formed with a periphery, or more precisely, an outer surface, configured, for example, by means of the inner periphery of the plug to mate with the surface of at least one acceptable connector type plug. Thus, erroneous connections, or more precisely, unacceptable electrical connections, can be prevented.

[0016] In an embodiment, the proposed power socket module further includes a sidewall extending from the substrate, the sidewall surrounding the substrate. In one example, this sidewall is formed with a periphery, or more precisely, with an inner surface, configured, for example, by means of the outer periphery of the plug, to mate with the surface of at least one acceptable connector type plug, thus preventing unacceptable electrical connections.

[0017] In an embodiment of the proposed power socket module, the socket core includes a periphery adapted to mate with an inner surface of a first connector type, and wherein the sidewalls include a periphery, or more precisely, an inner surface adapted to mate with an outer surface of a second connector type. This embodiment provides a modular power socket module that allows the power socket module to connect to a plug of a first connector type or a plug of a 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 an embodiment of the proposed power socket module, the recess includes a first set of recesses and a second set of recesses, wherein the first set of recesses is configured and sized to mate with a male connector of the first connector type, and the second set of recesses is configured and sized to mate with a male connector of the second connector type. In one example, the power socket module may be integrally provided with six recesses, three of which (e.g., the first set of recesses) are configured and sized to mate with a male connector of the first plug connector type, and the remaining three recesses (e.g., the second set of recesses) are configured and sized to mate with a male connector of the second plug connector type. Furthermore, as an illustrative 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 IEC standards.

[0019] In an embodiment of the proposed power socket module, the distal end of the socket core defines a front surface with openings, wherein a recess extends into such openings.

[0020] In one example, these openings and recesses may be formed continuously. In an embodiment of the proposed power socket module, each opening is formed as a rectangle.

[0021] In the proposed embodiment of the power socket module, each of the terminals is received into a slit in the recess, such that the plane of each terminal is perpendicular to the rectangular extension of the opening. This construction, combined with the slim design of the terminals, allows the socket core to be equipped with an increased number of terminals. Furthermore, increased flexibility is achieved in the terminal configuration. Moreover, due to this flexibility, the terminals can be configured to achieve, for example, maximum insulation between adjacent terminals.

[0022] In an embodiment of the proposed power socket module, each of these terminals includes a pin portion extending from the merged portion. The pin portion may extend in the same plane as the remaining body of the terminal. Therefore, a terminal that extends integrally in a single, slender plane can be provided.

[0023] In an embodiment, the proposed power socket module further includes a cover adapted for engagement with a substrate, the cover comprising a plurality of conductors positioned to be penetrated by pin portions of inserted terminals. The pin portion of each terminal may protrude from the cover of the power socket module on its rear side, and is designed for electrical connection to an external connection means, such as those provided in a power socket connector assembly. Once engaged with the substrate of the power socket module, the cover reliably secures the terminals. Through its fused portion, once engaged with the substrate, each terminal may abut against the rear side of the cover, with the distal end of the pin abutting against the aforementioned end or, more precisely, the adjacent portion of the slit. Therefore, once the cover is engaged with the substrate, axial movement of the terminals can be suppressed by the cover. The separation between the core and the cover may be designed with different geometries.

[0024] The present invention further relates to a power socket connector assembly comprising at least one power socket module as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 14. The provided power socket connector assembly is equipped with one or more power socket modules according to this embodiment. This configuration eliminates the need to provide a power socket connector assembly, having a plurality of common known power socket modules conforming to, for example, a first connector type, and another plurality of common known power socket modules conforming to, for example, a second connector type. Therefore, it is further advantageous to increase the density of the power socket connector assembly, at least saving space and cost without suffering reduced connectivity. Continuing with the example of a single power socket discussed above, the space occupied by the power socket connector assembly according to the invention can be used to provide connectivity to a 10A system, or alternatively, to a 16A system. If the server is upgraded to a version with higher or lower power consumption and therefore has a different type of plug connector than the originally installed server, the power socket connector assembly mounted in the server rack does not need to be replaced. The power socket module according to the invention can be combined with conventional power socket modules in the same power socket connector assembly. Advantageously, all power socket modules in the connector group are power socket modules according to the invention.

[0025] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a two-component electrical coupling system according to claim 16. The two-component system includes a power socket module according to the invention or a power socket connector assembly according to the invention as a first component. The system includes a plug releasably connected to the first component as a second component. This plug has a male connector configured and sized to fit into a corresponding recess in the first component and establish an electrical connection to a corresponding terminal. In particular, the first and second components of the coupling system may conform to standards such as IEC standards. As an example, the first and second components of the coupling system may be formed by a pair of electrical sockets F and a plug connector E, or by a pair of electrical sockets J and a plug connector I. The recess in the power socket module serving as the first component of the system may have more male connectors than the second component. In this way, another type of plug having male connectors in different locations can be alternatively connected to the first component. In the above example, a connection to plug connector E or alternatively to plug connector I can be enabled.

[0026] It is explicitly stated that any combination of the above embodiments constitutes the subject matter of further possible embodiments. Only those embodiments that would lead to contradictions are excluded.

Implementation Method

[0028] Figures 1a and 2b depict the power socket module 10 in different front views, while Figures 2a and 2b depict the power socket module 10 in different rear views. The power socket module 10 can be used to power electronic appliances (not shown) via a plug. The power socket module 10 includes a single body 12 made of an electrically insulating material, such as plastic. The single body 12 includes a base 14 and a socket core 16 extending from the base 14. In the case illustrated here, both are integrally formed. Additional or alternative variations for separation are conceivable, as explained below.

[0029] The power socket modules shown in these figures can be viewed as combination power modules, which can be combined to connect different plug connectors depending on the requirements of the electrical appliance to be connected.

[0030] The socket core 16 includes a plurality of recesses 18A1-18A3, 18B1-18B3 extending in its longitudinal direction. Each recess 18A1-18A3, 18B1-18B3 is adapted to receive the respective male connector of a plug (not shown) equipped with a plurality of male connectors, such as three male connectors. The socket core 16 is adapted to engage with different connector types, such as two different types of plugs. In the example shown, the socket core 16 includes six recesses 18A1-18A3, 18B1-18B3, comprising a first set of recesses 18A1-18A3 and a second set of recesses 18B1-18B3. The first set of recesses 18A1-18A3 is configured and sized to mate with the male connector of a plug of a first connector type. The second set of recesses 18B1-18B3 is configured and sized to mate with the male connector of a plug of a second connector type.

[0031] The distal end of the socket core 16 defines a front face 20 with openings, wherein recesses 18A1-18A3 and 18B1-18B3 extend into the openings. In the example shown, these openings have the same dimensions and orientation as the cross-sections of the recesses 18A1-18A3 and 18B1-18B3, respectively. These openings (and therefore the cross-sections of the recesses 18A1-18A3 and 18B1-18B3) are rectangular. The rectangular openings of the first set of recesses 18A1-18A3 extend in the vertical direction, while the rectangular openings of the second set of recesses 18B1-18B3 extend in the horizontal direction.

[0032] The periphery, or more precisely the outer surface, of the socket core 16 includes a key element 21, which may include means for preventing improper coupling, such as coupling with an incompatible plug. However, the key element 21 may be formed such that mating with an compatible plug is permitted. In one example, the periphery of the socket core 16 may be adapted to mate with the inner surface of a plug of a respective connector type, such as a first connector type, but it may also permit, or more precisely, not preclude, connection with a plug of a different connector type, such as a second connector type. However, due to the presence of the key element 21, coupling with another, such as an incompatible plug, is prevented.

[0033] The power socket module 10 further includes a sidewall 22 extending from the base 14 in the same direction as the socket core 16. This sidewall 22 surrounds the base 14 and thus surrounds the socket core 16. The base 14, sidewall 22, and socket core 16 may be integrally formed. The sidewall 22 includes a peripheral or more precisely an inner surface adapted to mate with the outer surface of a plug, which may be different from the aforementioned plugs, such as a second connector type plug. However, the sidewall 22 may be formed such that it also allows, or more precisely does not exclude, connection with plugs of different connector types, such as a first connector type plug. However, it can prevent coupling with another, such as a disallowed plug. The distal end of the sidewall 22 may be provided with a flange 24 or more precisely, a circumferentially extending cantilever. The outer surface of the flange 24 and the front surface 20 of the socket core 16 may be formed so that they are flush with each other.

[0034] Each of the recesses 18A1-18A3 and 18B1-18B3 includes an inner wall 26A1-26A3 and 26B1-26B3, wherein each inner wall 26A1-26A3 and 26B1-26B3 is formed with two slits S extending in the axial direction of each of the recesses 18A1-18A3 and 18B1-18B3. The slits S of each pair of slits are formed or more precisely configured so that they face each other.

[0035] As described above, in the illustrated example, the single body 12 includes a base 14 and a socket core 16 extending from the base 14, wherein the base 14 and the socket core 16 are integrally formed. Additional or alternative variations for separation, such as separation between the base 14 and the socket core 16, between a portion of the socket core 16 and the front surface 20, or between the base 14 and the sidewall 22, are conceivable.

[0036] Figure 3 depicts terminals 28 representing a plurality of terminals, each terminal being adapted to be received by one of a pair of slits S in each recess 18A1-18A3, 18B1-18B3. The terminals 28 having the specific geometry shown provide a very space-saving electrical contact element. These terminals 28 are made of a conductive material, such as copper or a copper alloy. Furthermore, each of these terminals 28 is formed to extend in a plane. Furthermore, each terminal 28 includes two leads 30', 30'' extending parallel to each other, facing each other, with a predetermined gap between them. The two leads 30', 30'' merge at one end to form a merging portion 32. This design allows the leads 30', 30'' to bend, or more precisely, flex via the merging portion 32, in a direction parallel to the plane of the terminal 28. The distal ends of the feet 30' and 30" may each have a protrusion 34' and 34" or more precisely, a circular protrusion, the protrusions 34' and 34'' protruding inward or more precisely, being guided to face each other.

[0037] Terminal 28 is adapted to resiliently clamp the respective male connectors of the plug (not shown) via pins 30', 30'' to establish electrical coupling. The male connector can be clamped by insertion and subsequently sliding the male connector into the gap defined by the two protrusions 34', 34'" of pins 30', 30''. The protrusions 34', 34'' then form contact points to the male connector. This insertion can be facilitated by the formation of the distal ends, or more precisely, the tips, of the rounded pins 30', 30''. During insertion, the male connector must pass through the gap defined by the minimum distance between the two protrusions 34', 34'' facing each other. This gap can be less than the thickness, or more precisely, the depth, of the male connector, causing the two pins 30', 30'' to bend or more precisely flex outwards during insertion to allow insertion of the male connector's extension. In this way, the pins 30', 30'' are bent outward via the merging portion 32 in a direction parallel to the plane of terminal 28. Due to the restoring force, the pins 30', 30'' are pressed against the inserted male connector to the extension portion, for example via the protrusions 34', 34'', allowing for a reliable mechanical and electrical connection.

[0038] Terminal 28 further includes a pin portion 36 extending from the merging portion 32. The pin portion 36 may extend in a direction away from the pins 30', 30'', such that terminal 28 extends in a single plane. However, there may be several different connection types between the terminal and the electrical appliance, and for some of these connection types, the respective IEC standard 60320-1 defines the minimum clearance between the different pin portions 36. To ensure clearance, the pin portion 36 can be tilted within the initial plane formed by the pins 30' and 30'', positioned asymmetrically relative to the pins 30' and 30'' (still within the plane formed by the pins 30' and 30''), tilted out of the initial plane formed by the pins 30' and 30'', or a combination of these three possibilities. This achieves a slimmer, space-saving design, allowing the socket core 16 of the power socket module 10 to be equipped with an increased number of terminals.

[0039] Returning to the power socket module body 10, the slit S formed along the inner walls 26A1-26A3, 26B1-26B3 of each of the recesses 18A1-18A3, 18B1-18B3 can extend to a position between the base 14 of these recesses and the distal end away from the socket core 16 at a predetermined length. Therefore, increased insulation can be achieved.

[0040] Referring to Figures 2a and 2b, these pairs of slits S can be respectively disposed in a portion of the relevant recess, thereby minimizing interference between them. This achieves a configuration that allows the terminals to be respectively housed against each other with maximum insulation. The slim design of the terminals advantageously facilitates this advantageous configuration.

[0041] As previously described, the space-saving, slim construction of terminal 28 allows the socket core 16 to be equipped with six recesses as a single unit, despite its limited cross-sectional space. Three of these recesses 18A1-18A3, also referred to as the first set of recesses, extend in a direction perpendicular to the extension of the front surface 20. The recesses of the first set are configured and sized to mate with the male connector of a first connector type, such as plug connector E (C14 electrical lead wire). With this in mind, the power socket module 10 can conform to electrical socket F (C13 connector).

[0042] The remaining recesses 18B1-18B3, also referred to as the second set of recesses, extend in the direction of the elongation to the front surface 20. The recesses of the second set are configured and sized to mate with the male connector of a plug of a second connector type, such as plug connector I (C20 electrical lead wire), which can alternatively connect to the aforementioned plug connector E. With this in mind, the power socket module 10 can simultaneously meet the requirements for electrical socket J (C19 connector) and electrical socket F. The geometry of the opening and the special configuration of the conductive terminals effectively separate the 10A electrical system (E, F pair) and the 16A electrical system (I, J pair). When either type of plug connector is connected to the power socket module 10, no contact is established between these two systems.

[0043] Referring to Figures 4a and 4b, the power socket module 10 may further include a cover 38 adapted to engage with the substrate 14. Once the terminals are inserted into the recesses (refer to Figures 1a-2b), the cover 38 can cover the substrate 14 from its rear side. Once the cover 38 is engaged with the substrate 14, the cover 38 is visible from its outward-facing surface. The cover 38 includes a plurality of conductors 40A1-40A3, 40B1-40B3, positioned to allow penetration by the pin portions 36 of the inserted terminals 28. For better illustration, conductors 40A1-40A3, 40B1-40B3 are mentioned in relation to the references to the associated recesses (refer to Figures 1a and 1b). Although not shown, as an alternative, the cover 38 may be integrally formed with the substrate 14.

[0044] The proposed structure allows the pin portion 36 of each terminal 28 to protrude from the cover 38 of the power socket module 10 on its rear side, as can be seen in FIG4b. Each pin portion 36 may be electrically connected to an external connection means, such as a printed circuit board, which may be provided in a power socket connector assembly (not shown).

[0045] Once engaged with the base 14 of the power socket module 10, the cover 38 allows for reliable securing of the inserted terminals. Although not visible, each terminal, for example by means of its merging portion (refer to FIG. 3), once engaged with the base 14, can be placed close to the rear side of the cover 38, and the distal end of each terminal's pin (refer to FIG. 3) can be placed close to the aforementioned end or, more precisely, the adjacent portion of the slit in its forward direction. Therefore, advantageously, once engaged with the base 14, axial movement of the terminal 36 can be suppressed by the cover 38.

[0046] Figure 5 shows a power outlet connector assembly 42. The power outlet connector assembly can also be referred to as a power distribution unit (PDU). It can be used to supply operating power to electrical equipment in, for example, computing facilities, such as data centers, server farms, etc. (not shown). Such computing facilities may include electronic equipment racks, which include rectangular or box-shaped enclosures, sometimes referred to as cabinets or racks for mounting equipment, associated communication cables, and associated power distribution cables. Electronic equipment can be installed in these racks, such that numerous electronic devices (e.g., network switches, routers, servers, etc.) can be vertically aligned with each other within the rack. One or more power outlet connector assemblies 42 shown can be used to supply power to electronic equipment. Multiple racks can be arranged side-by-side, each containing numerous electronic components and having a substantial amount of associated component wiring located within and outside the area occupied by the rack.

[0047] The power socket connector assembly 42 includes a plurality of power socket modules 10, which can be used to supply operating power to one or more separate electronic appliances (not shown). A wire 44 is provided for supplying power to the power socket connector assembly 42 from a power source (not shown). Each power socket module 10 can achieve combined connection with plugs of different connector types, such as plug connector E or plug connector I.

[0048] This further has the advantage of eliminating the need for providing a power socket connector assembly 42, and having a plurality of power socket modules of a first connector type and a plurality of power socket modules of a second connector type, such as three F-type power socket modules and three J-type power modules. The power socket connector assembly 42 of the present invention allows for increased versatility because an increased number of connections can be combined. Therefore, the power socket density within the power socket connector assembly 42 can be increased. This, in turn, can advantageously lead to a higher density of computing devices within the rack.

[0049] FIG6 is a cross-sectional view of the dual-component electrical coupling system 46, cut into the plane indicated by arrow AA in FIG1b. The dual-component electrical coupling system 46 includes a power socket module 10 and a plug 48 for connecting to, for example, an electronic appliance (not shown). The socket module 10 includes terminals 28A1, 28A2, and 28B3. Terminals 28A1 and 28A2 are received in recesses 18A1 and 18A2 formed by the first set of recesses, while terminal 28B3 is received in recess 18B3 formed by the second set of recesses (refer to FIG1a, b).

[0050] The plug 48 is connected to the power socket module 10 via male connectors 50A1 and 50A2, which are received in recesses 18A1 and 18A2 and further clamped by terminals 28A1 and 28A2. Although not shown, another male connector formed by the plug 48 can be received in recess 18A3 and clamped by another terminal (refer to Figures 1a and 1b). Recess 18B3 is part of a different set of recesses, such as the second set of recesses mentioned above.

[0051] Male connectors 50A1 and 50A2 are made of conductive material and, once connected, establish an electrical connection with terminals 28A1 and 28A2. Inside the plug 48, at various points, male connectors 50A1 and 50A2 can connect to electrical leads, wiring, printed circuit boards, etc. (not shown), for supplying power received via the socket module 10 to, for example, electronic devices. Furthermore, the plug 48 can be mechanically connected to the power socket module 10 via edges 52 formed by the plug 48, said edges 52 being accommodated within the space defined by the socket core 16 and the sidewall 22 of the power socket module 10. For example, the edge 52 of a plug of a first connector type can have an inner periphery conforming to the outer periphery of the socket core 16, as in the example shown. Alternatively, the edge 52 of a plug of a second connector type can have an outer periphery conforming to the inner periphery of the sidewall 22. Therefore, it is advantageous that two sockets of different connector types can be connected to the power socket module 10 respectively. Although not shown, the socket core may further include means to prevent incorrect coupling, such as at least one key element along the periphery of the socket core 16. Therefore, incorrect coupling can be prevented. As shown in FIG6, the two-component electrical coupling system 46 may include a power socket module 10 and a plug 48. Although not shown, the two-component electrical coupling system 46 may include, for example, a power socket connector assembly 42 and a plug 48 as shown in FIG5.

[0052] Features of standard extensions may be included in this invention. For example, additional socket geometry may 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 may be provided to differentiate between the approved temperatures of the socket within a power class. In one example, the plug connector may be provided with additional grooves on its exterior as coding or keying elements. If the plug and power socket modules belong to the same temperature class, the grooves match the protrusions correspondingly provided on the flange of the power socket module; otherwise, a keying function cannot be achieved. [Simplified Explanation of the Diagram]

[0027] The present invention is further described with reference to the accompanying drawings, which collectively illustrate numerous exemplary embodiments contemplated in the following detailed description. The following figures are shown: Figures 1a and 1b depict a power socket module in different front views; Figures 2a and 2b depict a power socket module in different rear views, having an uncovered base; Figure 3 depicts terminals; Figures 4a and 4b depict a cover and power socket module in a rear view, having a covered base; Figure 5 depicts a power socket connector assembly; and Figure 6 depicts a two-component electrical coupling system in a cross-sectional view.

Claims

1. A power socket module (10) comprising an electrically insulating single body (12), the single body (12) comprising a base (14) and a socket core (16) extending from the base (14), wherein the socket core (16) includes a plurality of recesses (18A1-18A3, 18B1-18B3) extending in its longitudinal direction, and further includes a plurality of terminals (28; 28A1, 28A2) made of conductive material, each terminal being positioned in one of the plurality of recesses (18A1-18A3, 18B1-18B3). The terminals (28; 28A1, 28A2) extend in a plane, and each terminal (28; 28A1, 28A2) includes two parallel leads (30', 30'') facing each other with a predetermined gap between them. The two leads (30', 30'') merge at one end into a merging portion (32), and the leads (30', 30'') can be bent in a direction parallel to the plane via the merging portion (32). The inner wall (26A1-26A3, 26B1-26B3) of each of the recesses (18A1-18A3, 18B1-18B3) is formed with two slits (S) that extend in the axial direction of the recesses (18A1-18A3, 18B1-18B3) and face each other, and the slits (S) of each of the recesses (18A1-18A3, 18B1-18B3) receive the pins (30', 30") of the terminals (28; 28A1, 28A2).

2. The power socket module (10) of claim 1, wherein the slits (S) extend along the portion of the recesses (18A1-18A3, 18B1-18B3) between the base (14) of the recesses and a position that is a predetermined length away from the distal end of the socket core (16).

3. The power socket module (10) of claim 1 further includes means (21) for preventing improper coupling.

4. The power socket module (10) of claim 3, wherein the means (21) for preventing improper coupling includes at least one key element (21) along the periphery of the socket core (16).

5. The power socket module (10) of claim 1 further includes a sidewall (22) extending from the base (14) and surrounding the base (14).

6. The power socket module (10) of claim 5, wherein the socket core (16) includes a periphery adapted to mate with an inner surface of a first type of connector, and wherein the sidewall (22) includes a periphery adapted to mate with an outer surface of a second type of connector.

7. The power socket module (10) of claim 6, wherein the recesses (18A1-18A3, 18B1-18B3) include a first set of recesses (18A1-18A3) and a second set of recesses (18B1-18B3), wherein the first set of recesses (18A1-18A3) is configured and sized to mate with a male connector of the first connector type, and the second set of recesses (18B1-18B3) is configured and sized to mate with a male connector of the second connector type.

8. The power socket module (10) of claim 1, wherein the distal end of the socket core (16) defines a front surface having openings, wherein the recesses (18A1-18A3, 18B1-18B3) extend into the openings.

9. The power socket module (10) of claim 8, wherein each of the openings is formed in a rectangular shape.

10. The power socket module (10) of claim 9, wherein each of the terminals (28) is received into a slit (S) of the recesses (18A1-18A3, 18B1-18B3) such that the plane of each of the terminals (28; 28A1, 28A2) is perpendicular to the rectangular extension of the openings.

11. The power socket module (10) of claim 1, wherein each of the terminals (28; 28A1, 28A2) includes a pin portion (36) extending from the merged portion (32).

12. The power socket module (10) of claim 11 further includes a cover (38) adapted to engage with the substrate (14), the cover (38) including a plurality of conductors (40A1-40A3, 40B1-40B3) positioned to be penetrated by pin portions (36) of the inserted terminals (28; 28A1, 28A2).

13. A power socket connector assembly (42) comprising at least one power socket module (10) as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 12.

14. A two-component electrical coupling system (46) comprising a power socket module (10) as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 12 or a power socket connector assembly (42) as claimed in claim 13 as a first component, and comprising a plug releasably connected to the first component as a second component, wherein the plug (48) has male connectors (50A1, 50A2) configured and sized to fit into corresponding recesses of the first component and establish an electrical connection to corresponding terminals.

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