Modular Electrical Receptacle With USB-C Power Selection Circuit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Legacy electrical receptacle systems lack the ability to easily update power delivery configurations to accommodate newer USB-C compatible devices, which require varying power and data capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A modular electrical receptacle assembly with multiple power output selections and a circuit that selects the appropriate power configuration for a USB-C connector, allowing easy integration into legacy systems and securing the USB-C cable to prevent disconnection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If legacy receptacle housings are used, then existing infrastructure is maintained, but the ability to support USB-C power delivery is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The receptacle system is divided into separate functional modules: a legacy receptacle housing and a modular insert containing the USB-C connector and power delivery circuitry. This segmentation allows the new USB-C functionality to be added without replacing the entire receptacle system, thus maintaining existing infrastructure while gaining adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular USB-C insert is designed to be inserted into and nested within the existing legacy receptacle housing. This nesting approach allows the new functionality to be housed within the existing structure, avoiding the need for complete system replacement and reducing overall complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple power output configurations are provided, then compatibility with various USB-C devices is improved, but circuit complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power delivery circuitry is designed to dynamically select and switch between multiple power output configurations (e.g., 5V/3A, 12V/3A, 20V/5A) based on the connected device's requirements. This dynamic capability allows a single receptacle to support multiple device types without requiring separate hardwired circuits for each power level.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes electrical parameters (voltage and current levels) through a single modular circuit rather than requiring separate physical circuits for each power configuration. The circuit can adjust its output parameters based on negotiation with the connected USB-C device, providing versatility without proportional increases in physical complexity.
3Reliability
If USB-C cable is secured to the assembly, then connection reliability is improved, but ease of cable removal decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The cable retention mechanism uses a spring-loaded or elastic component that provides continuous gentle pressure to hold the USB-C cable securely in place during normal use, improving connection reliability. However, when sufficient force is applied by the user, the mechanism allows the cable to be easily removed, balancing retention with ease of operation.
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical receptacle assembly including a first and second housing, a circuit and an electrical cable. The first housing has a plurality of electrical power output selections. The second housing has an electrical receptacle connector presented on a face thereof, the circuit is in the second housing being coupled to the connector. The electrical cable is coupled to the circuit and to the electrical power output selections, the circuit selecting one of the plurality of electrical power output selections to be supplied from the first housing to the connector.