Integrated AC/DC Power Cord for Single-Plug Climate Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Transport climate control systems require multiple power cords and plugs to connect to both AC and DC power sources, which is inefficient and cumbersome.
Innovation Solution
An optimized power cord with a single plug that can simultaneously provide both AC and DC power to electrically powered accessories, reducing the need for multiple connections by integrating AC and DC wire portions with a single plug that includes AC, DC, and communication contact arrangements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple power cords and plugs are used to connect to both AC and DC power sources, then reliable power delivery is achieved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate power cords (AC power cord and DC power cord) into a single integrated power cord that can simultaneously deliver both AC and DC power to the transport climate control system. This merging eliminates the need for multiple separate connections while maintaining reliable power delivery to all components.
Solution Approach 2:
The single power cord is designed with multi-functionality to serve multiple purposes: it can connect to both AC and DC power sources simultaneously, deliver both AC and DC power through integrated wiring, and interface with a single receptacle that accepts both power types. This universal design simplifies the overall power connection system.
2Reliability
If multiple power cords and plugs are used to connect to both AC and DC power sources, then comprehensive power coverage is achieved, but ease of operation worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the operation of connecting multiple power cords into a single connection operation. The integrated power cord with its single plug design allows users to connect both AC and DC power sources through one simple plugging action, eliminating the need to separately connect multiple cords to different receptacles.
Solution Approach 2:
The single plug design incorporates universal compatibility features that allow it to interface with receptacles configured for both AC and DC power delivery. This multi-functional interface simplifies user operation while ensuring comprehensive power source coverage.
3Device complexity
If a single plug provides both AC and DC power, then device complexity is reduced, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The single plug is segmented into distinct contact arrangements for AC power and DC power delivery. Each contact arrangement is precisely positioned and designed to interface with corresponding receptacle contacts, ensuring reliable electrical connection while maintaining the simplified single-plug structure.
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the single plug are designed with specialized local characteristics: AC contacts are configured for alternating current transmission, DC contacts for direct current transmission, with each contact area optimized for its specific function. This local quality differentiation enables precise manufacturing while maintaining overall device simplicity.
Data Source
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AI summary
A power cord for transferring power to an electrically powered accessory configured to be used with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a transport container is provided. The power cord includes a DC wire portion, an AC wire portion, and a single plug at one end of the power cord. The DC wire portion provides DC power to the electrically powered accessory. The AC wire portion provides AC power to the electrically powered accessory. The DC wire portion and the AC wire portion each have a first end and a second end. The single plug is connected to the first end of the DC wire portion and connected to the first end of the AC wire portion and includes an AC contact arrangement, a DC contact arrangement, and a communication contact arrangement.