Generator Plug with Obtuse Angle Joint and Thumb Ridge
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing plugs and receptacles for generators often have small pins that are prone to deformation and lack clear orientation features, making proper connection challenging due to similar appearances around the plug, leading to difficulties in forming a correct electrical and/or signal connection on the first attempt.
Innovation Solution
A plug design featuring a body portion and connection section that extend at an obtuse angle relative to each other, with a joint incorporating a sub-flush radius and a thumb ridge, and a boss with a D-shaped outer bore, facilitating easier alignment and connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the plug has a symmetrical appearance all the way around, then the manufacturing is simpler, but it becomes difficult for users to orient the plug and receptacle for proper connection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces asymmetric features including a D-shaped boss outer bore, a flat surface on the connection section, and a thumb ridge positioned at a specific location. These asymmetric elements create distinct orientation cues that guide users to insert the plug in the correct orientation, resolving the contradiction between manufacturing simplicity and ease of operation.
2Volume of moving object
If the pins are made small to reduce size, then the plug becomes more compact, but the pins become subject to deformation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs collars that extend around the pins, providing external support and protection. The collars act as protective sleeves that prevent pin deformation while allowing the pins to remain small in diameter, thus maintaining compact plug size while improving reliability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the connection section extends at an obtuse angle from the body portion, then the plug fits better in certain generator receptacles, but the joint becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a sub-flush radius at the joint where the connection section meets the body portion. This curved transition smooths the angular connection, reducing stress concentration and simplifying the joint structure while maintaining the obtuse angle configuration for better adaptability.
Data Source
AI summary
A plug comprising: a plurality of pins or a plurality of sockets; a body portion housing the plurality of pins or the plurality of sockets and the body portion extending parallel to a longitudinal axis of the plurality of pins or the plurality of sockets; a connection section connected to the body portion and extending from the body portion at an obtuse angle; and a cord connected to an end of the connection section; wherein the body portion and the connection section are connected at a joint and the joint includes a sub-flush radius on an underside of the joint.