Modular Low Voltage Power Receptacle with Integrated Transformer
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a growing demand for low voltage power and data outlets in various settings, but existing systems often require separate wiring for high and low voltage systems, limiting flexibility and convenience.
Innovation Solution
A modular electrical system that includes a low voltage power receptacle assembly with a power transformer to convert line voltage to lower voltage, allowing for integrated low voltage power distribution without separate wiring, using a housing with adjustable configurations and a circuit board assembly to support multiple low voltage outlets.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate wiring systems are used for high voltage and low voltage systems, then system reliability is improved, but device complexity and installation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines high voltage and low voltage wiring systems into a single integrated modular receptacle assembly. The housing contains both high voltage receptacles and low voltage receptacles with a power transformer, eliminating the need for separate wiring systems while maintaining safety through internal isolation barriers and proper grounding.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular receptacle assembly serves multiple functions within a single device: it provides both high voltage power outlets and low voltage power outlets, and can be configured with different combinations of receptacle types (standard outlets, USB ports, data ports). This multi-functionality reduces the overall number of separate wiring systems needed in the electrical infrastructure.
2Ease of operation
If integrated low voltage power distribution is implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The receptacle assembly is divided into modular components including the housing, circuit board assembly with power transformer, individual receptacle modules, and mounting components. This segmentation allows for standardized manufacturing of individual modules that can be assembled through automated processes, reducing overall manufacturing complexity despite the integrated functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The low voltage power distribution system is nested within the housing that also contains high voltage receptacles. The power transformer and low voltage circuitry are integrated into the same housing structure, with the low voltage outlets positioned to be accessible alongside high voltage outlets, creating a compact nested arrangement that simplifies installation while maintaining manufacturability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple low voltage outlets are provided in the same system, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The receptacle assembly is designed to provide multiple low voltage outlets including USB power ports, USB data ports, and other low voltage receptacles, all within a single housing. This universal design allows the same basic assembly structure to support various combinations of outlet types, enhancing adaptability without proportionally increasing complexity through standardized module design.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular design allows for dynamic configuration options where different front housing pieces with different receptacle arrangements can be attached to the same rear housing piece containing the power transformer. This enables the system to be adapted to different application requirements while maintaining a standardized core component, balancing versatility with manageable complexity.
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
Enables convenient access to low voltage power for devices like mobile phones and computers within a modular system, providing flexibility and customization options for high and low voltage outlets in the same system, eliminating the need for distinct wiring systems.
Implementation Method 1
a power transformer for reducing a line voltage (e.g., 110V AC or 220V AC) that supplies electrical power to standard receptacle outlets, down to a lower voltage (such as about 2V DC to about 12V DC)
Data Source
AI summary
A low voltage power receptacle assembly is provided for use in a modular electrical system. The receptacle assembly includes a housing that defines an internal cavity for receiving a circuit board assembly that transforms a line voltage input to a lower voltage output. The housing may define a plurality of contact-receiving portions in spaced arrangement, and has at least two electrical contacts disposed in respective contact-receiving portions. A low voltage power receptacle is in communication with the circuit assembly and provides user-access to the low voltage output. Optionally, the size of the housing may be varied to suit a particular application, and a spacer may be used inside the cavity to ensure proper positioning of the low voltage power receptacle.