Recessed Modular Outlet System for Space-Constrained Wiring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electrical outlets require plug adapters to accommodate multiple plugs, leading to a bulky and unsafe arrangement with exposed cords, making it difficult to place furniture or objects near outlets and posing safety hazards.
Innovation Solution
A recessed wall box system with universal connectors and modular components that allow for interchangeable sockets, circuit breaker boxes, and extenders, enabling customizable and safer electrical outlet configurations without exposing users to bare wires.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If plug adapters are used to accommodate multiple plugs, then the number of electrical connections is increased, but the device occupies more volume and creates bulky arrangements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested structure where multiple electrical outlets are arranged in a hierarchical configuration. Primary outlets are integrated into the wall, while secondary outlets are nested within or adjacent to the primary structure. This nesting allows multiple connections to be accommodated within a compact footprint, reducing the overall volume occupied while maintaining adaptability for multiple electrical devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional surface-mounted outlet arrangement to a three-dimensional recessed structure. By creating outlets that extend into the wall cavity and utilizing vertical stacking within the recessed box, the system accommodates multiple plugs in the depth and height dimensions rather than spreading them out horizontally, thereby reducing the lateral volume occupied on the wall surface.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple plug adaptors are inserted into surface-mounted outlets, then more devices can be connected, but safety hazards increase due to exposed cords and bulky arrangements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the electrical connection function from the traditional surface-mounted outlet and relocates it into a recessed wall cavity. This extraction allows the outlets to be embedded within the wall structure, concealing cords and connection points within the recessed space rather than leaving them exposed on the wall surface, thereby reducing safety hazards while maintaining the ability to connect multiple devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple outlet functions into a single integrated recessed wall box structure. Instead of having separate surface-mounted outlets requiring multiple adapters, the system combines primary and secondary outlets within one unified recessed assembly, consolidating cords and connections within the enclosed wall cavity and reducing the safety risks associated with scattered exposed cords.
3Ease of manufacture
If traditional outlet arrangements are used, then installation is simple, but customization and updates require electrical knowledge and are difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the outlet system into modular components: a permanent recessed wall box structure and interchangeable outlet faceplates or inserts. The recessed box provides the structural foundation and electrical connections, while the outlet faces can be easily removed and replaced by users without requiring electrical work. This segmentation allows simple initial installation while enabling easy customization and updates by simply swapping the modular outlet components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a dynamic outlet system where the configuration can be easily changed after installation. The recessed wall box maintains fixed electrical connections, while the outlet faces are designed to be removable and reconfigurable, allowing users to adapt the system to changing needs without permanent modifications or electrical knowledge. This dynamic design separates the stable structural element from the flexible functional element.
Data Source
AI summary
Pluggable electrical outlet system is provided including a recessed wall box which may interchangeably receive various mating sockets to provide a universal outlet system. The pluggable electrical outlet system further includes a junction box for distributing power lines, a circuit break box with universal connectors, and extenders. The extenders are configured to run power from the circuit breaker and the junction boxes to the recessed wall boxes. The recessed wall box comprises a female connector structured to interchangeably receive a male connector located on each of the series of sockets.