Hinged Outlet Cover Panels for Protecting Unused Receptacles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical outlet covers do not provide protection for unused outlets when another outlet in a dual configuration is in use, leaving them vulnerable to unwanted access and contamination.
Innovation Solution
A flexible outlet cover device with two or more planar front and rear panel surfaces, beveled edges forming recessed areas, and hinges that allow access to one outlet while maintaining coverage of another, enabling the device to articulate away from the outlet to accommodate an electrical cord.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single panel dual outlet cover is used to cover both electrical outlets, then protection against unwanted access and contamination is provided, but access to one outlet requires removing the entire cover, leaving the other outlet exposed and vulnerable
Solution Approach 1:
The outlet cover is divided into multiple separate panels (first panel and second panel) that can be independently removed. Each panel covers a specific outlet, allowing selective access to individual outlets while maintaining protection for the covered outlet. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by enabling independent operation of each panel rather than requiring removal of the entire cover.
Solution Approach 2:
The outlet cover transitions from a static single-panel design to a dynamic multi-panel design where panels can be independently manipulated. The panels are connected through a hinge mechanism that allows them to pivot between covering and open positions, providing dynamic control over outlet access while maintaining protection when closed.
2Device complexity
If a single panel dual outlet cover is used, then the cover structure is simple, but the outlet remains exposed and vulnerable when another outlet is in use
Solution Approach 1:
The cover is segmented into multiple independent panels that can be selectively positioned. When one outlet is in use, the corresponding panel can be removed or opened while the other panel remains in place to protect the unused outlet. This maintains simple individual panel structures while achieving reliable protection through independent panel operation.
Solution Approach 2:
Each panel is designed to perform multiple functions: it can cover and protect an outlet when closed, be independently removed for outlet access, and work in coordination with other panels. The hinge mechanism adds multi-functionality by allowing panels to pivot between covering and open positions, enabling the same structure to provide both protection and access as needed.
3Strength
If panels are made rigid for structural stability, then the cover provides strong protection, but it cannot articulate away from the outlet to accommodate an electrical cord
Solution Approach 1:
The panels incorporate a hinge mechanism that allows them to pivot between a closed position (providing strong structural protection) and an open position (accommodating electrical cords). The hinge maintains structural integrity while enabling dynamic movement, resolving the contradiction between rigidity for protection and flexibility for access.
Solution Approach 2:
The panel structure incorporates flexible elements through the hinge mechanism, allowing the rigid panels to articulate and move. The hinge acts as a flexible connection point that enables the panels to adapt their position while maintaining the structural strength of the panels themselves when in the closed protective position.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention pertains to devices which cover one or more electrical outlets while at least one electrical outlet is in use. Embodiments described for the present invention comprise a cover having two or more substantially planar front panel surfaces and two or more substantially planar rear panel surfaces, two or more panels, two or more pairs of prongs extending from the two or more rear panel surfaces configured to fit into openings in at least one electrical outlet, one or more hinges located between the two or more panels, the one or more hinges configured to allow access to at least one electrical outlets while at least one electrical outlet is covered by at least one of the two or more panels, and the one or more hinges articulate the two or more panels away from the at least one electrical outlet.