Plug Retention Apparatus With Ratchet and Flexible Clasps
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing plug retention apparatuses are not adaptable to different sizes of electrical plugs and can become dislodged under force, posing a safety hazard and limiting their usability.
Innovation Solution
A plug retention apparatus comprising a male and female retention portion with dual flexible clasps and a ratchet member, allowing for adjustable fit and enhanced retention force, accommodating various plug sizes and shapes, and preventing disengagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed retaining structure is used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but it cannot adapt to different sizes of electrical plugs
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining structure incorporates flexible clasps that can dynamically adjust their position and shape to accommodate different plug sizes. The clasps are designed to be resilient and movable, allowing the same structure to adapt to various dimensions without requiring multiple fixed-size retainers.
Solution Approach 2:
The retaining structure utilizes components with variable parameters, specifically the flexible clasps that can change their dimensional parameters (position, shape, curvature) to match different plug sizes. This allows a single structure to serve multiple sizes by changing its configuration rather than requiring multiple fixed structures.
2Reliability
If a simple retaining structure is used, then it is easy to manufacture, but it becomes dislodged under force
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible clasps provide dynamic retention that can respond to applied forces. When force is exerted on the cord or plug, the clasps can flex and adjust rather than rigidly resisting, which prevents dislodgment while maintaining structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The retaining structure employs flexible clasps made from resilient materials that can deform under load and return to their original position. This flexibility allows the structure to absorb and distribute forces without becoming dislodged, enhancing reliability under various force conditions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If an adjustable retaining structure is used, then it can fit different plug sizes, but it is more complex to manufacture
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustable retaining structure uses flexible, resilient components that inherently provide adjustability through their physical properties rather than requiring complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms. The flexibility itself enables the adaptation to different sizes, simplifying the manufacturing process compared to rigid adjustable mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
By using flexible materials and components, the structure achieves adjustability through material properties rather than complex assemblies. The flexible clasps can be molded or formed to provide the necessary range of motion and adaptation, making manufacturing more straightforward than rigid adjustable mechanisms.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The apparatus securely locks plugs of different sizes and shapes, resisting forces up to 15 pounds without premature release, ensuring reliable connection and safety in various applications.
Implementation Method 1
a ratchet member, allowing for adjustable fit and enhanced retention force
Implementation Method 2
dual flexible clasps and a ratchet member, allowing for adjustable fit and enhanced retention force
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments are disclosed for a plug retention apparatus, which includes: a male retention portion including a first flexible clasp for applying a retaining force to a plug assembly inserted therein, the male retention portion further including a ratchet member configured with a toothed bar: and a female retention portion including a second flexible clasp for applying a retaining force to the plug assembly inserted therein, the female retention portion further including an opening to receive the ratchet member of the male retention portion, the female retention portion further including a pawl configured to engage the toothed bar of the ratchet member.