Extension Cord Plug Cover with Raised Support Surfaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Extension cord connections are vulnerable to water ingress and physical damage due to lack of water-resistance and exposure to elements and human/pet traffic, posing electrical hazards.
Innovation Solution
A cord plug cover with rib elements, relief portions, securing formations, slots, pockets, and support surfaces made from materials like polypropylene or metal, designed to encase and secure extension cords, preventing water entry and physical damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If extension cords are connected outdoors without protection, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to water ingress and physical damage
Solution Approach 1:
The extension cord connection system is divided into separate protective components: a cover assembly that encloses the connection point, pockets for organizing cords, and support surfaces for stable placement. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while maintaining overall system reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover assembly acts as an intermediary protective barrier between the electrical connection and environmental hazards (water, physical damage). It mediates the interaction by providing a sealed enclosure that prevents direct contact between water and electrical components while allowing the cords to pass through designated slots.
2Ease of operation
If extension cord connections are exposed to elements, then ease of operation is improved, but object-affected harmful factors increase due to water and physical damage
Solution Approach 1:
The cover assembly is designed with preliminary protective features including raised edges that direct water away from the connection point, sealed slots that prevent water ingress, and a structure that elevates the connection above ground level. These features proactively counteract water and physical damage before they can harm the electrical connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The design converts the potential harm of water exposure into a beneficial drainage system where raised edges and angled surfaces actively direct water away from the connection point. The slots that could potentially allow water entry are designed with features that channel water harmlessly away from sensitive components.
3Ease of operation
If cord connections are left on the ground, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to physical damage from stepping or running over
Solution Approach 1:
The cover assembly elevates the electrical connection from the ground level to a raised platform, changing the vertical dimension of the connection's position. This dimensional change protects the connection from ground-level hazards such as stepping or running over while maintaining accessibility through appropriately sized slots and pockets.
Data Source
AI summary
A cover suitable for covering a portion of one or more extension cords is disclosed. A cord plug cover includes a plurality of sides that provide a generally covered area. In embodiments, one or more of the plurality of sides include one or more slots and one or more support surfaces. In embodiments, the support surfaces is configured to receive or support one or more extension cords that extend through the cover and the covered area. Embodiments of a cord plug cover include one or more of the following: one or more rib elements, one or more relief portions, one or more pockets, and/or one or more securing formations.