Reel Outlet Extension for Relocatable Wall Power Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical outlets in commercial and residential buildings are limited in quantity and density, making access to power difficult and restricting mobility due to the limitations of power cords and extensions.
Innovation Solution
A relocatable and extendable power adapter system featuring a base wall-mounted adapter with extension units that include an electrical conduit reel, allowing the extension units to unravel and be easily moved away from the wall, providing flexible and accessible power distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional electrical outlets are installed in fixed locations, then building structure and safety requirements are met, but accessibility and mobility are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the electrical outlet system movable rather than fixed. The base adapter can be relocated along the wall, and extension units can be extended and retracted as needed. This dynamic capability allows the system to adapt to different user needs and locations without requiring complex structural modifications to the building.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the electrical outlet system into modular components: a base wall-mounted adapter and detachable extension units. This segmentation allows each component to be independently positioned and configured, improving accessibility while keeping the overall system relatively simple to install and relocate.
2Ease of operation
If extension cords are used to increase reach, then mobility is improved, but the extensions constantly fall into inaccessible locations and are difficult to manage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the nesting principle by incorporating a reel mechanism within the extension unit housing. The extension cord is stored on the reel, which can be rotated to wind or unwind the cord as needed. This nested arrangement keeps the extension cord organized and accessible, preventing it from falling into inaccessible locations while maintaining mobility and reach.
Solution Approach 2:
The reel mechanism acts as an intermediary between the extension cord and the user. It provides a controlled interface for deploying and retracting the cord, making the extension management simpler and more reliable compared to handling a loose extension cord directly.
3Quantity of substance
If multiple outlets are installed to increase density, then power availability is improved, but aesthetic and safety limits are exceeded
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by providing a movable base adapter that can be repositioned along the wall and extendable units that can be deployed as needed. This allows multiple outlet positions to be accessed sequentially or simultaneously without installing multiple fixed outlets, thereby maintaining aesthetic appearance and safety while providing sufficient power availability.
Data Source
AI summary
A power adapter may include a base wall mounted power adapter configured to be plugged into a wall power outlet and at least one extension adapter unit electrically coupled to the base wall mounted power adapter and configured to be extended away from the wall power outlet. The at least one extension adapter unit may include an electrical conduit reel configured to unravel in response to the at least one extension adapter unit being extended.