Modular Outlet Base and Interface Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing outlets require professional installation for upgrades, making it cumbersome and expensive to modify or enhance their functionalities, such as data interface upgrades or added features like Quality of Service (QoS) functionalities, without disrupting existing network services.
Innovation Solution
A modular outlet design with a base module securely attached to the wall and an interface module that can be easily attached and detached, allowing users to upgrade data network and interface functions without professional installation, using mating connectors for electrical connection and supporting various network types like telephone, power, and CATV.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If outlets are designed with fixed functionalities, then installation is simple and reliable, but upgrading or modifying functionalities requires professional installation and disrupts existing services
Solution Approach 1:
The outlet is divided into two separate modules: a base module that remains permanently installed in the wall with the electrical connection, and an interface module that can be easily attached and detached. This segmentation allows the interface module to be upgraded without affecting the base module or requiring professional installation, while maintaining a simple and reliable overall structure.
2Ease of manufacture
If outlets use integrated connectors, then mechanical attachment is strong and stable, but modification or enhancement of functions is cumbersome and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the outlet into base and interface modules with standardized mating connectors, modifications can be made by simply replacing the interface module rather than redesigning or reworking the entire outlet structure. This reduces modification costs while the mating connectors maintain strong and stable attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The base module with standardized mating connectors can work with multiple types of interface modules, making the system universal. This allows different functionalities to be achieved through interface module replacement rather than custom manufacturing, reducing modification costs while maintaining attachment strength.
3Adaptability or versatility
If outlets are designed as single integrated units, then structural integrity is high, but upgrading data interfaces or adding features like QoS requires professional installation
Solution Approach 1:
The outlet is segmented into a base module containing the electrical connection and a separate interface module containing data interfaces and features. This allows users to independently upgrade interface modules with new features like QoS functionality without requiring professional installation or touching the base module's electrical connections.
4Ease of operation
If outlets require professional installation for upgrades, then service reliability is maintained, but user autonomy and cost-effectiveness are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the interface module that users need to upgrade from the base module with electrical connections, users can autonomously replace interface modules without risking service continuity. The base module remains undisturbed, ensuring reliable electrical connections, while users gain autonomy over interface upgrades.
Data Source
AI summary
In conjunction with a wiring in a house carrying data network signal, a modular outlet (100) includes a base module (100a) and interface module (100b). The base module connects to the wiring and is attached to the surface of a building. The interface module provides a data unit connection. The interface module is mechanically attached to the base module and electrically connected thereto. The wiring may also carry basic service signal such as telephone, electrical power and cable television (CATV). In such a case, the outlet provides the relevant connectivity either as part of the base module or as part of the interface module. Both proprietary and industry standard interfaces can be used to interconnect the module. Furthermore, a standard computer expansion card (such as PCI, PCMCIA and alike) may be used as interface module.