Low Voltage Power Receptacle with Remote Circuit Module
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a growing demand for low voltage power and data outlets in work areas and public spaces due to the increasing number of electronic devices, but existing solutions often lack compactness and flexibility in installation, especially in spaces with limited packaging space.
Innovation Solution
A low voltage power receptacle assembly that utilizes a remotely-located circuit to transform standard line voltage (110V AC or 220V AC) to a lower voltage (2V DC to 12V DC) using a power transformer, allowing for compact and versatile placement of USB-style power receptacles in various locations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the circuit is integrated with the receptacle in a single housing, then the structural complexity is reduced and manufacturing is simplified, but the available space for installation becomes insufficient in locations with limited packaging space
Solution Approach 1:
The power receptacle system is divided into two separate modules: a receptacle module containing the low-voltage outlet and a circuit module containing the voltage transformation circuitry. These modules can be installed at different locations and connected via conductors, allowing the receptacle to be placed in space-constrained areas while the circuit occupies separate installation space.
Solution Approach 2:
Electrical conductors serve as intermediaries connecting the remotely located circuit module to the receptacle module. This allows power transmission between separated components without requiring direct integration, enabling flexible spatial arrangement while maintaining electrical functionality.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the receptacle is made compact for limited space installation, then the installation flexibility increases, but the circuit space becomes insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the system into separate receptacle and circuit modules, each can be sized independently according to its specific space requirements. The compact receptacle module fits space-constrained installation locations, while the circuit module occupies separate space where packaging constraints are less restrictive.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a single integrated unit to a distributed modular architecture, adding the dimension of spatial separation. This allows the receptacle to be optimized for compact installation while the circuit is positioned in a different spatial location, effectively utilizing three-dimensional installation space.
3Power
If standard line voltage is used directly at the receptacle, then the power delivery capability is high, but the compatibility with low voltage devices (2V DC to 12V DC) is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The circuit module transforms electrical parameters by converting high-voltage AC line power (110V or 220V) into low-voltage DC power (2V to 12V) suitable for modern electronic devices. This parameter transformation enables the receptacle to deliver appropriate voltage levels for USB devices, smartphones, and other low-voltage electronics while maintaining compatibility with standard line voltage infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces direct electrical connection at standard voltage with an intermediate voltage transformation process. The circuit module acts as a substitution layer that adapts the power delivery characteristics to match device requirements, enabling universal compatibility across different low-voltage devices.
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
The solution provides convenient access to low voltage power in compact spaces, enabling charging and power supply for devices like mobile phones and computers, while allowing for flexible mounting options and efficient use of space.
Implementation Method 1
a power transformer, that converts or transforms standard line voltage to a lower voltage power output
Data Source
AI summary
A low voltage power receptacle assembly is adapted for providing access to low voltage power in compact spaces. The low voltage power receptacle assembly includes a circuit subassembly that is operable to transform a line voltage input, such as about 110V to 220V AC, to a lower voltage output, such as about 2V to 12V DC. Electrical input conductors receive and convey the line voltage from a power source to the circuit subassembly, while electrical output conductors convey the lower voltage output from the circuit subassembly to a low voltage power receptacle that may be spaced some distance from the circuit subassembly. The low voltage power receptacle is mountable in different housings, faceplates, and the like, to accommodate different mounting styles and locations.