Integrated Mains Connector for Appliance Power and Data Loading
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing domestic appliances require separate connections for electrical energy and data communication, making the loading of programs complex and time-consuming during manufacturing and maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A domestic appliance with a single mains connection that combines electrical energy supply and data transmission, using a multi-phase or single-phase appliance connector with integrated data transmission contacts, allowing for simultaneous or alternative data communication during energy supply, enabling simplified programming and diagnostic capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate connections are provided for electrical energy supply and data communication, then reliable energy supply is ensured, but the device complexity and manufacturing complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines electrical energy supply and data communication functions into a single mains connection. The connector includes both power contacts (L, N, PE) and data transmission contacts integrated in one unit, allowing both functions to be performed through one connection point rather than requiring separate connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The mains connection is designed to serve multiple functions simultaneously: it provides electrical power supply (phase, neutral, protective ground) and data transmission capabilities through integrated contacts. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate dedicated data connections while maintaining both power and communication reliability.
2Ease of manufacture
If separate connections are provided for electrical energy supply and data communication, then functional separation is achieved, but the ease of manufacture and installation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates data transmission contacts within the existing mains connection structure. During manufacturing, only one connection point needs to be established rather than multiple separate connections, significantly simplifying the assembly process and reducing manufacturing time and complexity.
3Device complexity
If a single mains connection is used for both energy supply and data transmission, then the device complexity is reduced, but the safety requirements become more stringent
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is designed with different contact types in specific locations: power contacts (L, N, PE) are positioned differently from data transmission contacts. The data contacts are arranged to be accessible only when the connector plug is inserted, and their positioning ensures they cannot be contacted by hand during normal operation, providing localized safety differentiations.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector plug acts as an intermediary that mediates between the external environment and the internal contacts. When inserted, it establishes controlled electrical connections for both power and data while preventing direct hand contact with any contacts. The plug structure itself serves as a safety barrier that eliminates the need for additional protective measures during connection establishment.
Data Source
AI summary
A domestic appliance that includes at least one mains connection for the supply of power to the domestic appliance from a building supply mains. In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the mains connection may include data transfer contacts.