Adjustable Power Cord Retainer for Equipment Module Handles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power cord retainers are inadequate in preventing inadvertent unplugging of power cords from equipment modules, often requiring specific chassis configurations and being inflexible, which can lead to unexpected power loss and data loss.
Innovation Solution
A power cord retainer system comprising a cable clip and a bracket that engages the power cord and equipment module handle, respectively, allowing for adjustable and secure retention of the power cord plug in the equipment module receptacle, preventing unplugging during module handling or sliding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional power cords are used without retainers, then the equipment module can be easily handled and installed, but the power cord may be inadvertently unplugged causing unexpected power loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a power cord retainer as an intermediary component between the power cord and the equipment module. The retainer includes a cable clip that engages with the power cord cable and a bracket that attaches to the equipment module, creating a mediating connection that prevents accidental unplugging while maintaining ease of module handling.
2Adaptability or versatility
If fixed-length wire retainers are used, then the retainer can be simple in structure, but it only works for specific overmold configurations and requires specifically configured holes in the chassis
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the retainer adjustable in length. The bracket includes multiple mounting positions or an adjustable mechanism that allows the retainer to be configured for different power cord lengths and overmold configurations, enabling versatility without requiring complex custom designs for each configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The retainer is designed with universal adaptability through its adjustable structure that can accommodate various power cord configurations. The cable clip and bracket combination can engage with different cable types and chassis configurations, making a single retainer design suitable for multiple applications rather than requiring specialized retainers for each configuration.
3Adaptability or versatility
If molded plastic retainers that engage with chassis handles are used, then the retainer can be easy to install, but it is configured for specific overmold configurations and specific chassis configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer incorporates adjustable mounting mechanisms that allow it to adapt to different chassis handle configurations. The bracket can be positioned at multiple locations or adjusted to engage with handles of varying shapes and positions, enabling the same retainer design to work across different equipment module types without requiring custom molded solutions for each chassis configuration.
Data Source
AI summary
A power cord retainer is provided for an equipment module including a chassis, a power receptacle, a handle adjacent to the receptacle, and a power cord. The power cord retainer includes a cable clip with a clip portion configured to engage a cable of the power cord, and a mounting portion extending from the clip portion. The power cord retainer also includes a bracket with an elongated section, a plurality of mounts extending along a length of the elongated section for adjustably receiving the mounting portion of the cable clip, and a hook section at one end of the elongated portion configured for partially encircling the equipment module handle. The power cord retainer is configured to secure the power cord plug in the equipment module power receptacle when the clip portion engages the power cord cable and the hook section partially encircles the equipment module handle.