Flexible Power Receptacle Connection Along Continuous Wire Runs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional power distribution systems are limited in their ability to provide power at any position and orientation along the system, requiring fixed connection points and dedicated male plugs and female receptacles, which restricts flexibility and increases complexity.
Innovation Solution
A power distribution system with continuously extending wires and hermaphroditic connectors that allow power receptacles to be positioned and oriented freely, using insulation displacement connection (IDC) or piercing connection (IPC) members to connect wires to power outlets without the need for dedicated plug and receptacle configurations, and incorporating a rib structure to prevent fluid ingress.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional power distribution systems use fixed connection points and dedicated male plugs and female receptacles, then power can be transmitted reliably, but flexibility in positioning and orienting power outlets is restricted and system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing hermaphroditic connectors that can function as both male plugs and female receptacles. Each connector includes a housing with an opening and internal contacts that can mate with identical connectors, allowing any connector to connect to any other connector regardless of orientation or position along the wire run. This eliminates the need for dedicated male and female components, enabling flexible positioning and orienting of power outlets while reducing component variety and system complexity.
2Ease of operation
If conventional power distribution systems use dedicated male plugs and female receptacles, then electrical connection is established, but the number of components increases and installation flexibility decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of male plugs and female receptacles into a single hermaphroditic connector design. Each connector contains both male and female connection capabilities within the same component - the housing with opening and internal contacts can both receive and provide electrical connection. This merging reduces the total number of different component types needed in the system from two (male and female) to one (universal connector), simplifying inventory, installation, and maintenance while maximizing installation flexibility.
3Adaptability or versatility
If power receptacles are positioned at fixed connection points, then system complexity is reduced, but the ability to provide power at any desired location is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by enabling power receptacles to be positioned dynamically at any location along the continuous wire run rather than at fixed predetermined points. The hermaphroditic connectors can be installed at any position on the wires, and the system accommodates flexible positioning through the universal connection capability. This dynamic positioning capability allows power to be provided exactly where needed while the standardized connector design keeps system complexity manageable.
4Ease of operation
If holes are provided in the power receptacle housing for wire access, then wire connection is enabled, but fluid ingress paths are created
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies this principle by using grommets as flexible protective elements installed in the holes of the power receptacle housing. These grommets are flexible rubber or elastomeric components that fit over the wire opening holes, providing a seal that prevents fluid ingress while allowing the wires to pass through and be accessed for connection. The flexible material deforms to accommodate wire insertion while maintaining the protective barrier against fluids, thus enabling wire connection accessibility without creating fluid ingress paths.
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 flexible power distribution at any desired location and orientation, reducing the number of components needed and preventing fluid ingress, while allowing for customizable integration into furniture systems.
Implementation Method 1
A rib extends outwardly from the second side of the housing. The rib is positioned between the first hole and the second hole to inhibit a fluid path from forming between the first hole and the second hole.
Implementation Method 2
The first end is configured to contact the electrical conductors within the insulation layers of the plurality of wires for electrically connecting the plurality of connection members to the plurality of wires.
Data Source
AI summary
A power distribution system includes a plurality of wires extending between a first end and a second end. The wires extend continuously between the first and second ends. Each wire includes an electrical conductor and an insulation layer. The power distribution system further includes a receptacle selectively positionable at any position along a length of the wires. The power receptacle includes a housing defining at least one power outlet. A plurality of connection members is positioned within the housing. Each connection member includes a first end and a second end. The first end is configured to contact the electrical conductors within the insulation layers of the plurality of wires for electrically connecting the plurality of connection members to the plurality of wires. The second end is configured to electrically connect the plurality of connection members to the at least one power outlet.