Electrical Outlet Cover Insert for Clean Wall-Matched Sockets
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Electrical outlets are visually disruptive and prone to dirt accumulation, making them unsightly and difficult to clean, and replacing them is costly and environmentally unfriendly.
Innovation Solution
A cover device for electrical sockets that includes a non-conductive carrier with a coupling module, which fits securely into the socket without touching the base, allowing easy insertion and removal, and can be customized with interchangeable inserts to improve aesthetics while protecting against dirt.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If electrical outlets are replaced with more aesthetically pleasing ones, then visual appearance is improved, but installation complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a cover device as an intermediary element that attaches to the existing socket outlet. This cover serves as a mediator between the ugly socket and the wall surface, providing aesthetic improvement without requiring replacement of the socket itself. The cover can be easily attached and removed, avoiding complex installation work.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover device creates a visual copy or representation of a clean, aesthetic wall surface by covering the socket opening. It presents a simplified, aesthetically pleasing appearance that mimics what the wall would look like without the socket, while the actual socket remains functional behind the cover.
2Shape
If existing sockets are replaced, then visual appearance is improved, but waste is generated and environmental impact increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cover device acts as a temporary intermediary solution that preserves the existing socket for continued use. By covering rather than replacing, the patent avoids discarding functional electrical infrastructure, thereby reducing waste generation and environmental impact.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover device is designed as a simple, inexpensive, and potentially temporary solution. It can be easily attached and removed as needed, providing aesthetic improvement without the permanent commitment and resource consumption associated with socket replacement.
3Shape
If electrical outlets are covered, then visual appearance and dirt protection are improved, but electrical functionality may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The cover device is designed with local quality differentiation: it covers the aesthetic and dirt-prone areas of the socket while leaving the electrical contact areas accessible. The cover can be opened or has openings that allow plug insertion and electrical contact, ensuring that functionality is maintained in the critical areas while providing protection and aesthetics in other areas.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1O
Figure 2(a)~2(b)
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The invention relates to a cover device (1) for sockets (10) for use in sockets of type C, E, F, H, J, K, L or N, wherein the socket of such a type comprises a socket cover (12) with a plug-receiving recess (13) formed from a base surface (13b) and a side surface (13s) surrounding the base surfaces, and a frame (11) for enclosing the socket cover, wherein the cover device comprises a carrier (2) made of an electrically non-conductive material with a first side (2a) which, after insertion into the socket, faces away from the socket, and a second side (2b) which, after insertion into the socket, faces the socket, wherein the first side has an extension which enables at least a common overlap of the socket cover and the frame from a first viewing direction of the socket,wherein at least one coupling module (3) made of an electrically non-conductive material is arranged on the second side, which is provided at least for inserting a first part (3a) of the respective coupling module into the plug-receiving recess, wherein at least the first part of the respective coupling module has a shape that at least predominantly fills the plug-receiving recess of the socket of such a type in the direction of the side surface, while the coupling module does not touch the bottom surface.