Modular Socket Adapter Interface for Multi-Plug and PLC Compatibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing socket devices require specific types and orientations, leading to compatibility issues with different voltage plugs, causing safety hazards and inconvenience, especially when using international appliances, and they do not easily accommodate Power Line Communication (PLC) technologies.
Innovation Solution
A replaceable socket device with non-directional adapters and a base that includes a magnetic connection system, allowing for adjustable adapters and a separable cable interface, enabling compatibility with various plug types and facilitating safe and convenient use, including PLC functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed-type socket is installed, then the socket structure is simple, but it cannot adapt to different plug types and voltages
Solution Approach 1:
The socket device is divided into a base unit and multiple removable adapter modules. Each adapter is designed for a specific plug type (e.g., Type A, Type B, Type C) and voltage range. Users can segment the adapter set and select only the required adapter for each usage scenario, achieving multi-format compatibility without requiring a completely different socket for each plug type.
Solution Approach 2:
The base socket unit is designed with a universal adapting interface that can accommodate multiple types of adapters. This universal interface enables a single base unit to serve multiple functions by simply changing the adapter module, allowing the same socket to support different plug types, voltages, and even Power Line Communication (PLC) functionalities without replacing the entire device.
2Adaptability or versatility
If an adapter is attached to the plug, then different plug types can be used, but it occupies more space and may cause safety hazards
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of attaching adapters directly to plugs (which creates space occupation and potential safety issues), the patent introduces a base socket unit as an intermediary device. The adapter modules connect to this base unit rather than to the plug itself, serving as a safe intermediary that handles the adaptation function while keeping the plug-simple and the adaptation logic contained in a controlled, accessible base unit with proper electrical connections.
3Adaptability or versatility
If PLC modem is installed on the socket, then Power Line Communication is enabled, but it occupies space and reduces convenience
Solution Approach 1:
The base socket unit is designed with multi-functionality, incorporating both power distribution and PLC communication capabilities in a single device. The adapting interface not only supports various power adapters but also provides a standardized connection point for PLC modems or network bridges. This allows the socket to serve dual purposes: as a power outlet and as a communication node, eliminating the need for separate PLC devices and reducing overall system complexity.
4Reliability
If plugs are inserted in specific direction, then proper electrical connection is achieved, but the power cable may be curved and insulation may rupture
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter modules are designed with non-directional adapting interfaces that can be rotated or adjusted to different orientations. This dynamic adaptability allows the adapter to accommodate plugs regardless of their insertion direction. The flexible connection design ensures that the power cable maintains a natural, straight path from the outlet to the plug, preventing excessive curvature and stress on the cable insulation that could lead to rupture.
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 versatile and safe socket system that adapts to different plug types, ensuring stable connections and enabling both power and data signal transmission, while allowing for easy disconnection of cables, thus enhancing user convenience and safety.
Implementation Method 1
There is a magnetic connection between the adapters and the adapting interface to allow the adapters to be installed more stably.
Data Source
AI summary
A replaceable socket device includes adapters and a base. Each of the adapters include a jack and contacts disposed on a bottom of the adapters. The base includes sockets, an adapting interface disposed on the socket, and a coupling interface coupled to the adapting interface and an external power source. Each socket includes a bottom surface and a sidewall perpendicularly connected to the bottom surface. One of the adapters inserts in the socket via an opening formed by the bottom surface and the sidewall. The adapting interface is utilized to connect the socket and one of the adapters. The coupling interface is configured to conduct electrical signal from the external power source to the adapting interface. The structure of the adapting interface is used for allowing one of adapters to couple to the socket via the adapting interface. The adapting interface is lower than the bottom surface of the socket.