Control Attachment Interface for Safe Swappable Power Adapters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Homeowners face challenges in easily and safely replacing power adapters, particularly in-wall installations, which can be costly and risky, and there is a need for flexible power management solutions in new constructions where initial placement of power adapters may not meet future needs.
Innovation Solution
A control attachment system that allows for easy configuration and modification of power adapters by coupling with a power adapter, featuring contact elements, a transformer for generating low voltage signals, and interfaces for receiving power and neutral signals, enabling various functionalities such as dimming and wireless communication, without requiring professional installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a homeowner replaces a power adapter, then the functionality can be improved or changed, but the cost increases and safety risks arise
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into two separate components: a power adapter that remains installed in the electrical system and a control attachment that can be safely removed and replaced by the homeowner. The control attachment interfaces with the power adapter through a connector, allowing functionality changes without requiring the homeowner to work with electrical wires. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by isolating the electrical safety-critical portion (power adapter) from the user-replaceable portion (control attachment).
Solution Approach 2:
The power adapter serves as an intermediary device between the electrical system and the control attachment. It provides a safe interface that translates control signals from the attachment into electrical control actions. The adapter's connector and contact elements mediate the interaction, allowing the attachment to control the load without the homeowner needing to directly connect electrical wires, thus reducing safety risks while maintaining adaptability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a power adapter is replaced in a new home, then future needs can be accommodated, but additional time and effort are required
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the control attachment from the power adapter, the system allows homeowners to quickly swap attachments without time-consuming electrical work. The control attachment becomes a plug-and-play component that can be changed in minutes rather than requiring professional electrical installation, thus reducing time loss while maintaining adaptability to future needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The power adapter is pre-installed during home construction or initial setup, with its connector and contact elements ready to receive control attachments. This preliminary installation of the electrical infrastructure means that future attachments can be added or changed without requiring additional electrical work, saving time when adapting to future needs.
3Reliability
If professional installation is used for power adapter replacement, then safety is ensured, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the installation into two parts: the power adapter requiring professional installation for electrical safety, and the control attachment that can be safely installed by the homeowner. This segmentation allows professional installation to be performed once during initial setup, ensuring reliability, while subsequent changes can be made by the homeowner without additional professional costs, thus reducing overall installation costs while maintaining safety.
Solution Approach 2:
The power adapter acts as an intermediary that handles all electrical connections during professional installation. Once installed, it provides a safe interface that allows homeowners to independently change control attachments without needing professional assistance. This mediator approach ensures initial installation safety while enabling cost-effective future modifications.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables homeowners to efficiently change and upgrade power adapter functionalities without risking electrical safety, allowing for flexible and cost-effective management of power distribution in residential and commercial settings, accommodating evolving needs and technological advancements.
Implementation Method 1
a transformer coupled to receive the power signal and generate a low voltage signal
Data Source
AI summary
A control attachment configured to provide power to a load is described. The control attachment may comprise a first plurality of contact elements configured to be coupled to a power adapter; a plurality of openings on a first surface and having a second plurality of contact elements configured to receive a power signal and a neutral signal, wherein the plurality of openings are adapted to receive prongs of a plug; a ground contact element adapted to be coupled to a ground contact element of the power adapter; and a transformer coupled to receive the power signal and generate a low voltage signal; wherein the second plurality of contact elements is coupled to the first plurality of contact elements.