Push-in Outlet System With Interchangeable Functional Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Ordinary users face challenges in replacing and upgrading cable connection outlets due to damaged cables and the need for professional assistance, as existing solutions do not allow for easy interchange of functional modules without compromising signal integrity or space efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A push-in outlet system featuring an interface and interchangeable functional modules with mating connections in a central vertical plane, allowing users to easily swap modules without professional help, while maintaining signal integrity and utilizing space efficiently with multiple outlet connections in both horizontal and vertical planes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If functional modules are made interchangeable for easy replacement, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability of signal connection may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the outlet into two separate components: a stationary interface fixed in the wall and interchangeable functional modules that can be easily swapped. This segmentation allows users to replace modules without affecting the permanent installation, maintaining both ease of operation and connection reliability through standardized mating connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The interface is designed with universal mating connections that can accommodate multiple types of functional modules (TV, radio, data, telephone). This universality ensures that regardless of which module is installed, the connection reliability is maintained through consistent connection geometry and sealing mechanisms.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple outlet connections are provided in different planes, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The interface incorporates outlet connections in multiple spatial planes (horizontal and vertical planes at different heights). This dimensional arrangement allows multiple connections to be provided without increasing the footprint area, maintaining adaptability while managing structural complexity through efficient spatial utilization.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple outlet connections are arranged in a nested or layered configuration within the interface structure, with connections in different planes accommodated within the same housing. This nesting approach provides versatile connectivity options while containing the overall device complexity within a compact form factor.
3Ease of operation
If mating connections are disposed in a central vertical plane, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The mating connections feature asymmetric geometry with a protruding male connector and a corresponding recessed female connector. This asymmetric design provides inherent alignment guidance during insertion, making the connection process intuitive and easy to operate while establishing clear manufacturing tolerances for the asymmetric features.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection geometry is designed with preliminary alignment features such as guide pins, tapered entry surfaces, or keyed interfaces that automatically align the male and female connectors before final engagement. This preliminary action ensures proper alignment is achieved during insertion without requiring high precision manual positioning, reducing the operational difficulty while maintaining manufacturing precision requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a push-in outlet system for user connectivity to various types of accessible networks such as computer network, satellite, television and radio. In particular, the present invention relates to a push-in outlet 10 featuring an exchangeable functional module 12 arranged in an interface 11 and where various embodiments of the functional module 12 may comprise various signal processing and determine the type and number of connections available to the user and more in particular the present invention relates to a push-in outlet system featuring an interface 11 and a functional module comprising corresponding mating connections in a central vertical plane A.