Convertible Electrical Connector with Slide Cover Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional power adapter cables require multiple versions with different plug specifications for various countries, making them inconvenient for travel and increasing the risk of accidental short circuits due to exposed electrical components.
Innovation Solution
A plug and socket convertible electrical connector assembly with a slide cover and metal conducting blades that can be extended for city power supply outlets, using a space overlapping technique to minimize size and protect against external objects, allowing for selective use based on country specifications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple power adapter cables with different plug specifications are provided for different countries, then adaptability to different power input applications is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate due to the need to prepare and carry multiple cables
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical connector assembly is designed to perform multiple functions: it can operate as a socket connector for receiving power adapter cables in one configuration, and as a plug connector for inserting into city power supply outlets in another configuration. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate cables for different countries, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The connector assembly incorporates a movable slide cover that can be shifted between two positions to dynamically change the connector's function. When the slide cover is in the first position, the socket is accessible; when shifted to the second position, the metal conducting blades are exposed and the socket is blocked. This dynamic transformation allows a single device to adapt to different power input applications without requiring multiple static cables
2Ease of operation
If electrical components are exposed for connection to power outlets, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to risk of accidental short circuits from external objects
Solution Approach 1:
The slide cover is designed to block the socket opening in the plugged configuration, preventing external objects from accidentally contacting the electrical socket and causing short circuits. This preliminary protective action is built into the design, ensuring that when the connector is configured as a plug, the socket is automatically protected without requiring additional safety measures
Solution Approach 2:
The movable slide cover dynamically adjusts the exposure of electrical components based on the connector's configuration. When shifted to expose the metal conducting blades for outlet insertion, the slide cover simultaneously blocks the socket opening, providing ease of operation while maintaining reliability. This dynamic mechanism ensures that electrical components are exposed only when needed and protected when not in use
3Volume of moving object
If space overlapping technique is used to minimize connector size, then volume is reduced, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly employs a nested arrangement where the metal conducting blades and electrical socket are positioned in overlapping spaces within the connector body. The socket is recessed into the housing, and the metal conducting blades are arranged to extend from the same housing structure, creating a compact nested configuration that minimizes the overall volume while maintaining functional integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The design utilizes three-dimensional spatial arrangement to overlap the positions of the metal conducting blades and electrical socket in different dimensions. By arranging these components in overlapping vertical and horizontal spaces within the compact housing, the design achieves minimal volume while the precise positioning in multiple dimensions ensures proper alignment and functionality
Data Source
AI summary
A plug and socket convertible electrical connector assembly including a connector body and a slide cover is disclosed. The connector body includes a housing defining an oblong insertion opening and multiple insertion slots at two adjacent walls thereof, a rack mounted in the housing, an electrical socket mounted in the rack and aimed at the insertion opening. The slide cover carrying multiple metal conducting blades is mounted in the housing and movable between a received position where the insertion opening is opened for allowing insertion of an external power adapter cable into the electrical socket, and an extended position where the slide cover blocks the insertion opening and the metal conducting blades are extended out of the insertion slots for connection to a city power supply outlet.