Modular Combination Outlet Housing for Interchangeable Plug Types
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional combination outlets for power distribution units (PDUs) are impractical, costly, and unreliable, requiring multiple pieces and complex assembly, and do not efficiently accommodate different types of plug connectors, leading to increased manufacturing and inventory costs and potential obsolescence due to changing plug needs.
Innovation Solution
A single-piece, molded housing with dual outlets that can interchangeably accept different plug connectors, featuring a deflectable latch and biasing element to secure plugs, and ganging features for modular installation, reducing manufacturing costs and improving reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional combination outlets use multiple pieces and complex assembly to accommodate different plug connectors, then adaptability to various plug types is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple outlet functions into a single integrated housing that can accommodate different plug connector types (e.g., NEMA 5-15, NEMA 6-15, IEC C13) without requiring separate assembly components. The housing integrates multiple receptacle openings, latch mechanisms, and mounting features into one piece, eliminating the need for complex multi-component assembly while maintaining versatility across plug types
Solution Approach 2:
The outlet assembly is designed as a universal component that can serve multiple plug connector types simultaneously. The housing includes multiple receptacle configurations (e.g., grounded and ungrounded options) within a single unit, allowing it to function with various plug types without requiring different outlet designs or additional assembly steps
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional combination outlets use multiple pieces and complex assembly, then adaptability to various plug types is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple outlet functions into a single integrated housing that can accommodate different plug connector types (e.g., NEMA 5-15, NEMA 6-15, IEC C13) without requiring separate assembly components. The housing integrates multiple receptacle openings, latch mechanisms, and mounting features into one piece, eliminating the need for complex multi-component assembly while maintaining versatility across plug types
Solution Approach 2:
The outlet assembly is designed as a self-contained unit where the housing itself provides all necessary structural, electrical, and mechanical functions. The integrated design eliminates the need for separate assembly operations, reducing manufacturing steps and costs while maintaining the ability to support multiple plug types
3Reliability
If outlets are designed for specific plug types, then connection reliability is improved, but adaptability to changing plug needs decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The outlet assembly is designed as a universal component that can serve multiple plug connector types simultaneously. The housing includes multiple receptacle configurations (e.g., grounded and ungrounded options) within a single unit, allowing it to function with various plug types without requiring different outlet designs or additional assembly steps
Solution Approach 2:
The outlet assembly incorporates deflectable latch portions that can adapt to different plug connector geometries. The latch mechanism is designed to flex and adjust its engagement position based on the specific plug type inserted, maintaining reliable electrical and mechanical connection across varying plug configurations while preserving adaptability to future plug type changes
4Reliability
If conventional combination outlets require complex assembly, then secure connections are achieved, but ease of manufacture decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The outlet assembly is designed as a self-contained unit where the housing itself provides all necessary structural, electrical, and mechanical functions. The integrated design eliminates the need for separate assembly operations, reducing manufacturing steps and costs while maintaining the ability to support multiple plug types
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 a compact, economical, and reliable PDU with interchangeable outlets, minimizing manufacturing complexity and inventory needs while ensuring secure connections to various plug types, adapting to changing plug requirements.
Implementation Method 1
a biasing element is attached to the molded housing to bias the latch portion toward the outlet core
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical outlet assembly includes a molded housing having side walls, end walls extending between the side walls, a bottom wall interconnecting the side walls and the end walls, and an outlet core extending upwardly from the bottom wall into a space defined between the side and end walls. In one example, a first end wall of the end walls includes a latch portion that is deflectable relative to the space to selectively secure an electrical plug that is engaged with the outlet core. In another example, a biasing element is attached to the molded housing to bias the latch portion toward the outlet core.