Keyed Power Outlet Module for Multi-Plug Coupling Reliability

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing power outlet modules face challenges in preventing erroneous coupling with wrong plug connectors while meeting space and electrical insulation requirements.

Innovation Solution

A power outlet module design featuring a unitary body with recesses and terminals that allow for separate connections of different plug types, such as plug connectors E and I, using a space-saving configuration with angled terminals and keying elements to prevent incorrect coupling.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If keying elements are added to prevent erroneous coupling, then safety and reliability improve, but device complexity and space requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprevention of erroneous couplingVSAvoidstructure complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies asymmetry by providing different keying element configurations for different connector types. The first connector type has keying elements at specific positions and orientations that are asymmetric relative to the second connector type, allowing the outlet module to be compatible with only the intended connector type and prevent erroneous coupling with incompatible connectors.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #4Asymmetry

Solution Approach 2:

The outlet module achieves universality by incorporating multiple sets of keying elements that can accommodate different connector types within a single module. The module can be configured to work with either the first connector type or the second connector type by selectively engaging the appropriate keying elements, eliminating the need for separate outlet modules for different connector types.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If separate outlet modules are used for different connector types, then reliability and proper connection are ensured, but space consumption and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoidspace consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple outlet module functions into a single integrated module. By combining support for different connector types (first and second connector types) into one outlet module with multiple keying element configurations, the design eliminates the need for separate outlet modules for each connector type, thereby reducing space consumption while maintaining connection reliability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If keying elements are designed to prevent incorrect coupling, then safety improves, but electrical insulation requirements become more difficult to meet

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecoupling safetyVSAvoidelectrical insulation precision

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by providing different keying element configurations for different connector types. The first keying elements are positioned and oriented specifically for the first connector type, while the second keying elements are positioned and oriented for the second connector type. This localized differentiation ensures coupling safety for each connector type while maintaining proper electrical insulation through precise positioning of conductive elements relative to the insulating housing.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUS12580336B2Power outlet module, a power outlet connector bank and a two-part electrical coupling system

Publication Date: 2026.03.17 H SCHURTER AG

AI summary

A power outlet module, comprising an electrically insulating unitary body, said unitary body comprising a base and an outlet core extending from said base. Said outlet core comprises a plurality of recesses extending in longitudinal direction thereof. The power outlet module further comprises a plurality of terminals made of an electrically conductive material each positioned in one of the plurality of recesses. The terminals each extend in a plane, each terminal including two legs extending in parallel to each other, facing each other with a predetermined gap in-between. The two legs at one end merge into a merging portion, said legs being bendable via the merging portion in a direction parallel to the plane.