Outlet Cover Cord Storage Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Standard cord lengths for devices often result in excess cord length, leading to clutter and safety hazards, as manufacturers cannot anticipate the distance from the power receptacle to the user's desired device position.
Innovation Solution
A 3-part receptacle cover plate assembly with a spool plate, flange plate, and receptacle plate that allows excess cord to be stored by wrapping it around the spool plate and concealing it with flexible flanges, providing a solution for both power and data links.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a standard cord length is used for devices, then the device can be connected to power receptacles at various distances, but excess cord length creates clutter and safety hazards
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the excess cord from the functional area by providing a dedicated storage compartment within the receptacle cover plate. The cord can be routed through a channel and stored in a recessed area, separating the necessary cord length from the excess portion that would otherwise create clutter and safety hazards.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements nesting by placing the cord storage compartment within the receptacle cover plate structure itself. The storage area is nested inside the cover plate, allowing the cord to be concealed within the existing architectural element rather than occupying external space.
2Ease of operation
If excess cord is left loose or makeshift bundled, then the device remains accessible, but safety risks and unsightly appearance increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the excess cord from the hazardous loose or makeshift bundled state and places it into a dedicated storage compartment. This eliminates the safety risks associated with loose cords while maintaining device accessibility through the integrated design.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If excess cord is stored in a dedicated mechanism, then clutter and safety hazards are reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the cord storage function with the existing receptacle cover plate. By integrating the storage compartment, routing channel, and concealment features into the cover plate itself, the design avoids adding separate external storage devices while still providing effective cord management.
Solution Approach 2:
The receptacle cover plate is designed to serve multiple functions: it provides the standard electrical receptacle coverage, incorporates a cord routing channel, includes a storage compartment for excess cord, and offers aesthetic concealment. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate cord storage devices.
Data Source
AI summary
Electrical plug receptacle cover plate assembly with a flange plate positioned between a spool plate and a receptacle cover plate. A portion of the space between the flange plate and the spool plate is used to wrap excess cord, and rearward angular flanges are used to conceal the cord. In other embodiments, the receptacle cover plate may be recessed; the spool plate and receptacle cover plate may be combined; the flange plate may be provided over a combined spool plate and receptacle cover plate; and a combined flange plate and receptacle cover plate may be provided over a spool plate.