Locking Wall for Switchable Power Socket Plug Security
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for securing mains plugs to switchable sockets in shared electrical devices, such as laundry care machines, fail to provide reliable protection against unauthorized removal while allowing for non-destructive disconnection for maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a wall that encloses the switchable socket and partially covers the mains plug, reducing freedom of movement and preventing removal, with a recess design to accommodate different plug shapes and fastening mechanisms to secure the device to the socket, enabling reliable protection without damaging the plug or socket.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a barbed connector is used to prevent unauthorized use, then security against unplugging is improved, but the connection cannot be released for maintenance purposes
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism transitions from a static barbed connector to a dynamic system where the wall can be positioned in different states. The wall is held in a first position during operation to prevent unplugging, but can be moved to a second position to allow release of the plug connection for maintenance, enabling the system to adapt between security and serviceability modes
2Reliability
If the wall completely encloses the switched socket housing, then protection against unplugging is improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of completely enclosing the switched socket housing, the wall provides localized protection by selectively covering only the critical areas where unplugging could occur. The wall is positioned to cover the front opening and side openings of the housing, focusing protection where it is most needed while leaving other areas open, thereby reducing overall device complexity
3Reliability
If the wall is positioned close to the front of the switched socket, then protection effectiveness is improved, but the range of motion along the first axis is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The wall's position along the first axis is made dynamic rather than fixed. The wall can be moved between a first position that provides effective protection by covering the front opening and a second position that allows release of the plug connection. This dynamic positioning capability allows the system to achieve both protection effectiveness and operational flexibility
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4a
Figure 4b~4d
AI summary
A device (200) for protecting a plug-in connection between a first power plug (211) of an electric appliance (110) and a switchable power socket (120) is described, wherein the switchable power socket (120) comprises a socket (210) for receiving the first power plug (211) and a second power plug (230) for coupling the switchable power socket (120) to an electric mains (130). The device (200) comprises a wall (310, 320, 330) which is designed, when the device is installed, to at least partially surround the switchable power socket (120) with the first power plug (211) plugged therein. The wall (310, 320, 330) comprises a plug-side recess (421, 422) in which the second power plug (230) at least partially penetrates the wall (310, 320, 330), when the device is installed. Furthermore, the wall (310, 320, 330) is designed in such a manner that said wall (310, 320, 330) at least partially covers the first power plug (211), when the device is installed, in order to prevent the first power plug (211) from being pulled out of the socket (210).