Angled Power Unit USB Port Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power strips often pose challenges in terms of location and ease of access for USB ports and power switches, particularly in work areas where space and accessibility are concerns.
Innovation Solution
A power unit design featuring a first surface with power outlets and a second surface angled at approximately 20-60 degrees, specifically 45 degrees, with USB ports and a power switch, enhancing accessibility and compatibility with tool storage cabinets.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If USB ports and power switches are placed on the same flat surface as power outlets, then the device structure is simple, but the ease of access to USB ports and power switch is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensionality change by tilting the second surface at an angle of 10-45 degrees relative to the first surface. This angular orientation creates a three-dimensional arrangement where USB ports and the power switch are positioned on a tilted plane, making them more accessible to users while maintaining a compact overall structure. The angled surface effectively adds a spatial dimension to the port arrangement, resolving the contradiction between accessibility and structural simplicity.
2Ease of operation
If USB ports are positioned for easy access, then ease of operation improves, but the device may not be compatible with standard tool storage cabinet configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The tilted second surface projects USB ports and the power switch forward and upward, creating clearance behind these components. This dimensional arrangement allows the power unit to be mounted in recessed spaces within tool storage cabinets while maintaining user accessibility. The angular configuration enables the device to adapt to various mounting environments, including recessed and surface-mounted installations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by creating distinct functional zones on different surfaces. The first surface maintains a flat configuration optimized for power outlet access and cabinet mounting, while the second surface is tilted to optimize USB port and power switch accessibility. This localized differentiation of surface orientations allows the device to simultaneously satisfy mounting compatibility and operational accessibility requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
A power unit is disclosed that includes a first surface with one or more power outlets, and a second surface angularly disposed with respect to the first surface. The second surface has one or more universal serial bus (USB) ports, and a power switch disposed thereon. The angled nature of the second surface provides ease of access to the USB port(s) and power switch.