Power Cord Safety Ejection Mechanism for Mobile Equipment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current power supply systems for mobile equipment, such as refrigerated trailers, pose safety risks due to live power cords that can cause electrocution and fires, especially in wet conditions, and fail to automatically disconnect from power sources when the equipment moves, leading to potential catastrophic failures.
Innovation Solution
A power supply system with a safety circuit panel and a power cord featuring a self-ejecting latch mechanism that ensures safe disconnection from the power source, combined with a weatherproof hinged sealing cover to prevent exposure to liquids and a complex connector arrangement that only allows proper interfacing for power transfer, ensuring automatic shut-off and preventing faulty connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If a power cord is used to connect mobile equipment to a power source, then power supply capability is improved, but safety risks increase due to live cords causing electrocution and fires
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by requiring the mobile equipment to be in a stationary position before power can be supplied. The system performs a position verification check that confirms the equipment is properly parked and secured before enabling the power connection, thereby preventing hazards associated with moving equipment connected to live cords
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs self-service through automatic position detection and verification mechanisms that monitor the mobile equipment's status without continuous human intervention. The system automatically determines whether the equipment is stationary and capable of receiving power, eliminating the need for manual safety checks by users
2Duration of action of stationary object
If the power cord remains connected to the power source, then continuous power supply is improved, but safety risks worsen when equipment moves causing catastrophic failures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback through continuous position monitoring that detects when mobile equipment begins to move while connected to power. The system receives feedback signals from position sensors and automatically responds by disconnecting the power supply, thereby maintaining continuous power during stationary operation while ensuring safety during movement
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies dynamics by transitioning from a static power connection model to a dynamic one where power supply status changes automatically based on equipment movement. The system adapts its operation in real-time, enabling continuous power when stationary and automatic disconnection when motion is detected
3Ease of operation
If a simple power connection system is used, then ease of operation is improved, but safety control capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the power connection function with position verification and safety control functions into an integrated system. The power connection mechanism is combined with automatic position detection and safety verification, creating a unified system that maintains operational simplicity while incorporating comprehensive safety controls
Data Source
AI summary
A power supply system for use with a power source. The system includes a safety circuit panel with a safety circuit and a power cable with a safety release in the form of a safety ejection subsystem. The safety ejection subsystem includes a latch connected to the wall receptacle connector of the power cable and a tension line connected to the latch and to the power cable. When the power cable is placed in tension, such as when the power cable has not been disconnected from the wall receptacle in the ordinary way, the safety ejection subsystem forces the disconnection of the power cable from a plug, thereby ensuring that no live wiring is exposed to the environment.