Plug Fitting Base Locking Mechanism Against Accidental Unplugging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for preventing unplugging of critical equipment, such as hospital resuscitation machines or computer servers, are ineffective against malicious or negligent actions, as labels alone do not deter intentional disconnection.
Innovation Solution
A socket base with a nesting mechanism that includes a support element, a first fixed part, and a movable part, which can be easily manufactured and has a low cost, allowing for a locking system that prevents unplugging by translating the movable part into a cavity of the socket, ensuring electrical continuity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a locking mechanism is added to prevent unplugging, then reliability of power supply is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The movable part is nested within the socket base structure, allowing the locking mechanism to be integrated into the existing base without adding separate external components. The movable part slides within a cavity of the socket, creating a compact nested arrangement that prevents unplugging while maintaining simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The socket base is segmented into fixed parts and a movable part, allowing independent functionality of each segment. The movable part can slide independently to engage or disengage the locking mechanism, while the fixed parts maintain structural support and electrical connections.
2Reliability
If a locking mechanism is added to prevent unplugging, then reliability of power supply is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The nested arrangement allows the locking mechanism to be manufactured as an integrated assembly with the socket base, reducing the need for separate manufacturing processes and assembly steps for additional components.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable part serves multiple functions: it acts as both a structural element of the socket base and the locking mechanism simultaneously. This multi-functionality reduces the total number of parts that need to be manufactured and assembled.
3Reliability
If a complex locking mechanism is used, then reliability of power supply is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism uses a dynamic movable part that can easily slide between locked and unlocked positions. This dynamic element allows simple operational interaction (pushing or pulling) to engage or disengage the lock, maintaining ease of operation while ensuring reliable locking when engaged.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a fitting base (1) of a plug (2) comprising: a supporting element (11) comprising at least one opening suitable for receiving at least one connector of the plug (2), a first stationary portion (12) projecting from the supporting element (11), a first movable portion (13) secured to the first stationary portion (12), said movable portion (13) having a shape and dimensions suitable for the insertion thereof into a first cavity (21) in the plug (2) when the at least one connector of the plug (2) is fitted in the at least one opening in the supporting element (11). The invention also relates to a plug (2) and to a locking system (3).