Modular system, comprising electrical consuming units and an electrical connection unit
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The existing method of connecting multiple electrical consuming units to a single household power outlet using a power strip can lead to a messy and unsightly arrangement of cables, and poses a risk of overloading the electrical line, potentially causing a fire due to excessive current when high-power devices are operated simultaneously.
Innovation Solution
A modular system with differently designed connection elements on the electrical consuming units and the terminal/distribution strip, limiting the total power consumption by ensuring only compatible units can be connected, thereby preventing overloading and allowing for an orderly and visually appealing arrangement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple electrical consuming units are connected to a single household power outlet using a power strip, then the number of simultaneously operable devices increases, but the risk of electrical overloading and fire hazard increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection elements are designed with different geometric configurations (different numbers of contact points, different shapes) to create local distinctions. High-power devices require specific connection element types (e.g., three-contact plugs) that are geometrically incompatible with low-power connection elements, thereby locally tailoring the connection capability to the power consumption requirements of each device type.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces asymmetric design in the connection elements where the geometric properties (number of contacts, shape, arrangement) are deliberately made non-uniform. This asymmetry ensures that only devices with matching asymmetric connection elements can be connected, preventing incompatible devices from being plugged into inappropriate outlets and thus preventing overloading.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple electrical consuming units are connected using a power strip, then device connectivity increases, but cable management becomes messy and unsightly
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the power distribution function with the connection interface design. By integrating the connection elements directly into the device housings and using geometric compatibility to enforce proper connections, the system eliminates the need for multiple separate cables and power strips, thereby merging what was previously a messy multi-cable arrangement into a cleaner, more integrated configuration.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular system comprising electrical consuming units and an electrical connection unit. The connection unit has a contact plug for plugging into a power outlet and for electrical connection with a particular cable connecting an electrical terminal and distribution strip as well as one connecting the terminal and distribution strip to the contact plug. The consuming units have first connection elements for mechanical and electrical connecting to second connection elements on the terminal and distribution strip. The first connection elements are geometrically different depending on a maximum electrical power consumption of the respective consuming unit. The second connection elements are likewise geometrically different such that selected first connection elements cannot be connected to selected second connection elements. The type and number of second connection elements are determined such that a total maximum electrical power consumption of all electrical consuming units connected simultaneously is limited to a predefined maximum value.