Modular Power Coupling Structure for Reversible Utility Module Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modular systems lack an efficient and versatile power supply mechanism that can seamlessly integrate with utility modules for both power provision and transportation within a modular framework, limiting the flexibility and functionality of these systems.
Innovation Solution
A power system comprising a power unit with a housing containing a power source and a coupling structure featuring male and female couplers, which allows reversible detachment and attachment to utility modules, enabling integration with transportation devices like carts and dollies, and facilitating the provision of power to rechargeable batteries.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a power system is integrated into a modular utility module, then power provision and transportation functionality are enhanced, but the device complexity increases due to the coupling structure requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling structure is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides mechanical attachment between utility modules, enables power transfer through integrated contacts, and facilitates reversible detachment. The male and female couplers incorporate both structural support elements and electrical contact elements within a single integrated component, allowing the same structure to handle both mechanical and electrical connections simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling structure is divided into separate male coupler and female coupler components that can be independently manufactured and then assembled. This segmentation allows for simplified manufacturing of individual parts while enabling flexible assembly configurations. The male coupler with protruding tongues and the female coupler with corresponding recesses can be produced as separate modules and connected through standardized interfaces.
2Ease of operation
If male and female couplers with tongues and channels are used for reversible attachment, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The male and female couplers feature asymmetric tongue and channel geometries where the tongues have specific profiles that match corresponding recesses. This asymmetric design provides inherent alignment guidance during attachment, ensuring that the components connect in the correct orientation. The non-symmetric shape of the tongues and channels prevents misalignment and ensures proper engagement without requiring complex alignment procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanism uses an inverted approach where instead of requiring precise active alignment features, the design relies on passive geometric interlocking. The tongues of the male coupler naturally guide themselves into the channels of the female coupler through their complementary shapes, reversing the traditional approach of requiring precise positioning mechanisms. This inversion simplifies the attachment process while maintaining connection reliability.
Data Source
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AI summary
Various power systems that couple within a modular system are shown. In one example, a power system includes a plurality of male couplers arranged along a bottom of the power system, the male couplers configured to couple to utility modules in the modular system. In another example, the power system includes one or more coupling mechanisms configured to couple the power system to a transportation device.