Pivoting Plug Socket Curved Guidance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Standard UK plug and socket arrangements require significant force for insertion and removal, are prone to accidental disconnection due to cable pull, and have separate switch activation, complicating safe and secure operation.
Innovation Solution
A socket with a recessed base surface and part-cylindrical protrusion for plug guidance, allowing pivoting engagement, and a plug with curved prongs and a handle for ergonomic lifting, which integrates switch actuation and secure connection, ensuring secure insertion, easy removal, and safe switching.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If a standard plug and socket arrangement is used with perpendicular prongs and flaps covering apertures, then electrical connection is achieved, but considerable force is required for insertion and removal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies curvature by providing a part-cylindrical protrusion on the base surface of the socket and a corresponding part-cylindrical recess in the plug housing. This curved geometry enables the plug to pivot smoothly during insertion, reducing the force required compared to straight perpendicular insertion. The curved surfaces guide the plug into the correct position while allowing rotational movement, thereby easing the operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic movement by allowing the plug to pivot between an initial position and a final engaged position. The part-cylindrical protrusion and recess create a pivoting mechanism that transforms the static insertion process into a dynamic rotational movement. This dynamic approach reduces insertion force and improves ease of operation while maintaining secure electrical connection.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the plug is made secure when fully engaged in the socket, then connection stability is improved, but a sharp pull on the power cable can still inadvertently remove the plug
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry through the part-cylindrical protrusion and recess configuration, which creates a directional pivoting motion. The plug can be inserted by pivoting into the engaged position, but removal requires a different motion path. This asymmetric geometry provides inherent resistance to inadvertent removal while maintaining secure connection, as the plug naturally settles into a stable engaged position that is not easily disturbed by cable pull.
Solution Approach 2:
The curved part-cylindrical surfaces create a self-locking effect during pivoting engagement. As the plug rotates into the final position, the curved surfaces interlock, providing mechanical stability and resistance to inadvertent removal. The curvature ensures that the plug settles firmly into the socket while maintaining the ability to be deliberately removed when needed.
3Ease of operation
If the socket incorporates a mechanically actuated exposed switch, then switching control is achieved, but the switch must be actuated separately from plug insertion requiring operator knowledge
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the plug insertion operation with the switch actuation function. The part-cylindrical pivoting mechanism of the plug is designed to simultaneously actuate the switch during the insertion process. This combination eliminates the need for separate switch actuation, improving ease of operation while reducing the overall device complexity by integrating two functions into one mechanical action.
Solution Approach 2:
The plug's pivoting insertion motion automatically performs the switch actuation function without requiring separate operator action. The mechanical design ensures that as the plug pivots into its engaged position, it automatically triggers the switch, making the system self-servicing. This eliminates the need for the operator to have knowledge of separate switch actuation procedures.
Data Source
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AI summary
A socket comprises a plurality of recesses with electrically conductive contacts; said recesses being configured to receive the prongs of a corresponding plug; and a plug housing recess for receiving at least a portion of the housing of a plug; wherein said plug housing recess incorporates an engagement surface against which said plug engages in order to pivot between an initial position where the prongs are positioned to enter the recesses and a position where the prongs are fully engaged within the recesses. A plug suitable for use with this socket is also presented.