Power Outlet Availability Detection With Shutter Switch Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical power outlets lack a mechanism to efficiently communicate the availability status of outlets to users, particularly in environments where multiple outlets are distributed across a large area.
Innovation Solution
The development of an electrical receptacle system that includes an outlet, a shutter, and a switch. When an electrical device is inserted, the shutter moves, activating the switch to send a signal indicating the availability status of the outlet to a notification control unit, which can then relay this information to user devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If traditional electrical outlets are used without notification mechanisms, then the structure remains simple and cost-effective, but users cannot efficiently determine outlet availability status
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where sensors detect device insertion at the outlet and automatically send notifications to user devices. This resolves the contradiction by providing real-time outlet availability information through an automated feedback loop, eliminating the need for manual checking while keeping the outlet structure relatively simple through the use of standard notification components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a notification system as an intermediary between the electrical outlet and the user device. This mediator automatically communicates outlet status information to users, resolving the information loss problem without requiring direct user interaction with the outlet, thereby maintaining simplicity in the outlet structure itself.
2Productivity
If manual checking of outlet availability is used, then the outlet structure remains simple, but user time and efficiency are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by proactively notifying users of outlet availability before they arrive or before they need to use the outlet. The system detects device insertion and immediately sends notifications, eliminating the need for users to manually search for available outlets and significantly reducing time loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The automated notification system provides real-time feedback about outlet status changes, enabling users to efficiently locate and use available outlets without manual checking, thereby improving productivity and reducing time loss.
3Ease of operation
If outlets are distributed across large areas without notification, then installation cost is reduced, but user convenience and outlet monitoring efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses automated feedback mechanisms to monitor and communicate the status of outlets distributed across large areas. Sensors at each outlet detect device insertion and automatically send notifications through a network system, making monitoring convenient regardless of the physical distance between outlets and eliminating the need for manual inspection.
Solution Approach 2:
The notification system acts as an intermediary that bridges the gap between geographically distributed outlets and users. This mediator handles the complexity of monitoring multiple outlets across large areas, providing centralized oversight and user-friendly notifications without requiring users to physically traverse the entire area.
Data Source
AI summary
A notification system including an outlet and a notification center. The outlet is configured to output a signal indicative of the availability of the outlet. The notification control unit is configured to receive the signal, determine availability of the outlet based on the signal, and output information corresponding to the availability of the outlet to at least one selected from a group consisting of a computer, a smart phone, and a tablet.