Outlet Cover System with Rotating Anchor Lock
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing outlet cover systems fail to provide effective protection for electrical devices exposed to weather conditions and do not offer secure access configurations.
Innovation Solution
The outlet cover system comprises a base, an adapter plate, and a coupling system with a unique locking mechanism using a follower post, receiver post, and anchor system, allowing the cover to rotate between open and closed positions while ensuring secure attachment and protection from the elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional outlet cover system is used, then the structure is simple, but it fails to provide effective protection for electrical devices exposed to weather conditions and does not offer secure access configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The outlet cover system is divided into multiple functional components: a base structure, a removable cover, an adapter plate with opening, and a coupling system with locking mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function effectively while providing comprehensive protection when assembled together.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter plate is nested within the base structure, and the coupling system components (follower post, receiver post, anchor) are nested within each other to form a compact integrated assembly. This nesting approach maintains protection effectiveness while managing system complexity through space-efficient design.
2Reliability
If a secure locking mechanism is implemented, then unauthorized access is prevented, but the complexity of the coupling system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The anchor is pre-installed in the base structure, and the receiver post is pre-formed with the receptacle. When the cover is installed, the follower post automatically engages with the anchor through the receptacle, creating the locked position without requiring additional assembly steps. This preliminary preparation reduces the perceived complexity during installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling system is designed to self-lock automatically when the cover is properly installed. The follower post naturally engages with the anchor through the receiver post's receptacle, creating a secure locked position without requiring external tools or additional fastening operations. The system serves itself to achieve the secure configuration.
3Ease of operation
If the cover can rotate between open and closed positions, then ease of operation is improved, but the risk of unauthorized access or tool entry increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling system provides dynamic positioning capability, allowing the cover to rotate between a closed position (for protection), an open position (for access), and a locked intermediate position (for security). The follower post can engage with the anchor at different angles, enabling controlled movement while maintaining security when locked.
Solution Approach 2:
The locked position of the follower post in the receiver post's receptacle creates a preliminary barrier that prevents unauthorized rotation or tool entry. The mechanical engagement requires sufficient force and proper alignment to disengage, providing preliminary protection against casual or unauthorized access attempts before the cover can be opened.
Data Source
AI summary
Technologies are described for an outlet cover system. The systems may include a cover, base and coupling system. The base and cover of the outlet cover system may be joined using the coupling system. The coupling system may include a bottom half and a top half. The bottom half and top half may be joined using an anchor. The anchor may include an anchor head, anchor shaft and anchor lid. The anchor head includes flares which can compress and expand to prevent its removal from the coupling system. The joining of the bottom and top half of the coupling system allows the outlet cover system to move between open and closed positions.