Pivoting Electrical Device Cover With Locking Tab
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electrical device covers lack a secure and versatile mechanism for mounting and locking that allows for both protection and easy access, particularly in situations where electrical devices need to be used while covered, such as with cords extending through the cover.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a base with notches and a pivotable lid that can be adjusted and locked using a sliding or rotatable locking tab, allowing the lid to be maintained in an expanded closed position for cord access while securely locking in both collapsed and expanded positions, utilizing a hinge mechanism for multiple operational states.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional electrical device cover is used, then the electrical device is protected from water and contaminants, but the cover cannot be easily opened or adjusted for cord access
Solution Approach 1:
The lid is made dynamically adjustable through a hinge mechanism that allows it to pivot between fully closed, partially open (expanded), and fully open positions. The hinge enables the lid to be held at different angles, providing dynamic adaptability for cord access while maintaining security when closed.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover is segmented into a base and a separate lid that can be independently positioned. The lid is further divided functionally into a cord access portion and a protective portion, allowing selective opening for cord access while maintaining protection for the electrical device.
2Ease of operation
If the lid is made pivotable for cord access, then ease of operation is improved, but the lid may not remain securely locked in position
Solution Approach 1:
The locking tab is designed to be self-latching, automatically engaging with the recess when the lid is in the desired position. The spring-loaded mechanism automatically locks the lid without requiring additional fastening actions, while still allowing easy release when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
A locking tab with spring mechanism serves as an intermediary between the lid and base, providing automatic engagement and retention. The spring-loaded tab acts as a mediator that secures the lid in position while allowing controlled movement between states.
3Reliability
If a locking mechanism is added to secure the lid, then reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking function is extracted as a separate, simple tab mechanism rather than being integrated into the hinge structure. This separate locking tab can be independently positioned and engaged, simplifying the overall design while providing reliable locking.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded locking tab is self-actuating, automatically engaging and disengaging based on lid position without requiring additional controls or complex mechanisms. The spring provides the necessary force for automatic locking and unlocking.
4Ease of operation
If the lid is adjusted to expanded position for cord access, then ease of operation is improved, but the protective function is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The lid is functionally segmented into a cord access portion that can be opened and a protective portion that remains closed. This segmentation allows cord access through the opened portion while the remaining portion continues to protect the electrical device from environmental factors.
Solution Approach 2:
The lid can be dynamically positioned at intermediate angles between fully closed and fully open states. This dynamic positioning allows partial opening for cord access while maintaining protective coverage for the majority of the electrical device.
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical device cover comprises a base with an opening in a back wall of the base sized to receive an electrical device and a lid coupled to the base at a first base end through a hinge, the lid pivotable between and open position and at least one closed position. The base comprises a notch on a base wall extending away from the first base end. A first lid end is hingedly coupled to the first base end such that the first lid end is selectively adjustable with respect to the base toward and away from the second base end. A lid pin extends from the lid towards the notch when the lid is in at least one closed position wherein the lid pin seats in the notch when the first lid end is selectively adjusted toward the second base end.