Plug Connector Prong Recesses for Secure Outlet Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electrical plug connectors can partially fall out of electrical sockets, exposing prongs and risking electrical shorts and fires, particularly under tension.
Innovation Solution
The plug connector design includes prongs with recesses that engage conductive contact members in the socket, providing mechanical interference to restrict axial movement and prevent withdrawal, ensuring secure insertion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional plug connectors are inserted into electrical sockets, then electrical connection is established, but the plug connector can partially fall out exposing prongs creating safety hazards
Solution Approach 1:
The prong is segmented into multiple portions including a first portion extending from the housing, a second portion with a recess, and a third portion. This segmentation allows the second portion to engage with the contact member in a specific manner, creating mechanical interference that prevents withdrawal while maintaining electrical connection reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces a recess feature that adds a dimensional element to the prong structure. This recess creates a mechanical interference condition where the contact member engages within the recess, restricting axial movement in a direction perpendicular to the insertion path, thereby preventing pull-out without affecting the electrical contact function.
2Reliability
If the plug connector is designed with retention features, then withdrawal is prevented, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The retention function is merged with the electrical connection function by integrating the recess feature directly into the prong structure. The same prong that provides electrical contact also contains the recess that prevents withdrawal, eliminating the need for separate retention mechanisms and reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The prong is designed to serve multiple functions simultaneously: it provides electrical conduction, mechanical engagement through the recess, and retention by restricting axial movement. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, thereby simplifying the overall device structure while achieving reliable retention.
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical plug connector may include a housing defined by a body, a first prong, and a second prong. The first prong includes a first portion and a second portion including a first recess located on the second portion. The second prong includes a third portion and a fourth portion including a second recess located on the fourth portion. Each of the first prong and second prong outwardly extend from an end of the housing. The first prong may also include a third recess located opposite the first recess and the second prong may also include a fourth recess located opposite the second recess. The recesses arranged on the first prong and second prong are configured to engage a contact member located in a corresponding receptacle of an electrical outlet to retain a position of the electrical plug connector in the electrical outlet and restrict movement in an axial direction.