Pop-Out Outlet Housing With Concealed Power and Data Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electrical boxes lack integrated solutions for providing power, audio, video, and data connections, and do not efficiently manage the exposure and concealment of electrical outlets, leading to aesthetic and functional limitations.
Innovation Solution
An electrical pop out device with a shroud and pop out housing that can move between retracted and extended positions, featuring a guidance mechanism, electrical connections, and optional audio, video, and data connections, allowing for integrated and portable electronic devices within a standard wall box configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If electrical outlets are permanently exposed in conventional electrical boxes, then electrical connectivity is always accessible, but aesthetic appearance deteriorates and safety is reduced when outlets are not in use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the electrical outlets movable rather than fixed. The outlets can dynamically change position between retracted (concealed within the wall cavity) and extended (exposed for use) states, allowing the system to adapt its configuration based on operational needs. This resolves the contradiction by providing both aesthetic concealment when not in use and easy accessibility when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the electrical outlet system into separate movable components that can be independently controlled. Each outlet or group of outlets can be divided into discrete units that extend or retract independently, allowing selective accessibility while maintaining overall aesthetic appearance. This segmentation enables the system to provide accessibility only where and when needed.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple integrated devices (power, audio, video, data) are added to the electrical box, then functionality is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing the pop-out housing as a multi-functional platform that can accommodate various types of electrical and electronic devices. The standardized housing structure with integrated power, audio, video, and data connections can serve multiple purposes - functioning as an electrical outlet, media player, communication device, or combination thereof. This reduces complexity by providing a universal interface rather than requiring separate systems for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies the nesting principle by placing the pop-out housing containing multiple devices within the existing wall cavity structure. The housing itself nests within the electrical box, and individual devices nest within the housing. This nested arrangement consolidates multiple functions into a compact, organized structure that fits within standard wall configurations, managing complexity through hierarchical organization.
3Shape
If outlets are concealed within the wall structure, then aesthetic appearance is improved, but accessibility and ease of operation worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction through dynamic movement capability. The outlets are concealed within the wall structure in their retracted state, providing aesthetic appearance. When accessibility is needed, the outlets dynamically extend outward from the wall surface, providing easy access without requiring permanent exposure. This dynamic transition allows the system to maintain both aesthetic appearance and ease of operation at different times.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a mechanical intermediary system (guidance mechanism with rails and guides) that mediates between the concealed outlet position and the accessible position. This intermediary structure enables smooth, controlled movement of the outlets between retracted and extended states, making the transition easy and reliable while maintaining both aesthetic concealment and operational accessibility.
4Ease of operation
If a guidance mechanism is added to enable pop-out movement, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity and structural requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reduces mechanical complexity by substituting complex mechanical actuation systems with simpler guidance-based movement. Instead of requiring motors, springs, or complex linkages to move the outlets, the design uses guidance rails and guides that allow the outlets to move freely along a predetermined path with minimal mechanical intervention. This substitution of complex mechanical systems with simpler guidance structures resolves the contradiction between ease of movement and structural complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical pop out device has an shroud and a pop out housing configured to be inside the shroud in a retracted position and to extend outside the shroud in an extended position. A guidance mechanism connects the pop out housing with the shroud and allows movement of the pop out housing with respect to the shroud between a retracted position and an extended position. The electrical pop out device includes an electrical connection for powering an electrical/electronic device in the pop out housing and/or charging a battery of the electrical/electronic device in the pop out housing. The electrical pop out device may also include audio, video and/or data connections for the electrical/electronic device in the pop out housing. In some embodiments, the electrical/electronic device is portable and the pop out housing is detachable from the shroud.