Inductive Power Outlets Embedded in Walls
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional power outlets are often unsightly, difficult to relocate, and pose safety hazards, especially in areas like schools and bathrooms, where they may be knocked loose or cause electrocution due to their protruding nature and limited placement, which does not adapt well to changing room functions or hygiene needs.
Innovation Solution
The integration of inductive power outlets into extended surfaces such as walls, floors, and ceilings, using prefabricated materials like plasterboard panels, wallpaper, and power outlet tapes with embedded primary inductors connected to a power supply, allowing for flexible and concealed power distribution without visible wiring or protruding components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If conventional power outlets are installed on walls, then power can be provided to electrical devices, but the outlets become unsightly and pose safety hazards when protruding or in areas like schools and bathrooms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the power provision function from conventional protruding wall outlets and relocates it to an inductive power transmitter embedded within the surface (wall, floor, or ceiling). This eliminates the harmful protruding elements while maintaining power accessibility through inductive coupling with a receiver placed on the surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical plug-and-socket connection system with an inductive power transmission system. Instead of physically inserting plugs into protruding sockets, power is transmitted wirelessly through electromagnetic induction between an embedded transmitter and a surface-placed receiver, eliminating safety hazards while maintaining ease of operation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional power outlets are relocated by adding wiring, then power can be provided at new locations, but the process becomes costly and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal power distribution system where a single embedded inductive transmitter can serve multiple locations on the surface. The receiver can be placed anywhere on the surface to access power, providing flexible relocation without additional wiring. This multi-functional system allows power to be provided at any needed location simply by moving the receiver.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic flexibility to the power distribution system. Instead of fixed outlet locations determined by wired infrastructure, the system allows dynamic repositioning of power access points by simply moving the receiver on the surface. This enables rapid adaptation to changing needs without time-consuming rewiring operations.
3Shape
If power outlets are embedded in walls, then the outlets are less obtrusive, but relocating them requires chiseling grooves and extensive renovation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a thin-film or flexible embedding approach where the inductive transmitter is integrated into the surface structure without requiring deep wall cavities or extensive grooving. This maintains aesthetic appearance while enabling easier relocation compared to traditional embedded outlets, as the transmitter can be repositioned with minimal surface intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the power outlet system dynamic and adaptable. Instead of fixed embedded outlets that require destructive renovation for relocation, the system allows the transmitter to be repositioned within the surface structure or the receiver to be moved to new locations, providing aesthetic consistency with relocation flexibility.
4Adaptability or versatility
If protruding electrical boxes are used for power outlets, then power can be provided at various locations, but they become unsightly and may become detached when knocked
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the power transmission function from protruding electrical boxes and relocates it to an embedded inductive transmitter. This eliminates the protruding components that are both unsightly and vulnerable to detachment, while maintaining location flexibility through the ability to position receivers at various surface locations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical attachment system of protruding electrical boxes with an embedded inductive transmission system. The embedded transmitter provides stable, secure power transmission without protruding elements that can be knocked loose, while the receiver-placed-on-surface approach maintains adaptability for various locations.
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
This solution provides a safe, aesthetically pleasing, and adaptable power distribution system that minimizes the risk of electrocution and allows for easier reconfiguration of power outlets without the need for extensive rewiring, enhancing both safety and functionality in various environments.
Implementation Method 1
the primary inductor for inductively coupling with a secondary inductor wired to an electric load
Data Source
AI summary
A power providing system for transferring power from an inductive power outlet to an inductive power receiver. The power providing system includes a targeting apparatus capable of detecting the location of the inductive power receiver adjacent to said extended surface and driving a primary inductor in the vicinity of the inductive power receiver. Optionally, the inductive power outlet includes a moving primary inductor which may move into alignment with the receiver. Alternatively, the inductive power outlet includes an array of primary inductors and a primary inductor may be selected in the locality of the inductive power receiver.