Removable Power Cable Locking for Motor Activation Safety
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Solution Overview
Problem
Portable electrical devices, such as hand blenders, face safety issues due to permanently fixed power cables, which can lead to overheating and fire risks when incorrectly assembled, and require costly professional disassembly for repairs. Additionally, existing removable cable systems lack automatic locking mechanisms, increasing the risk of electrocution in humid environments and cable damage from improper handling.
Innovation Solution
A portable device with a mechanical safety system that locks the motor in a deactivated position unless the power cable is correctly engaged, combined with an automatic locking mechanism for the power cable and housing, and ergonomic features like raised portions for easy handling and cable storage to minimize damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the electric power cable is permanently fixed to the device's housing, then the device structure is simple and reliable, but repair and replacement require costly professional disassembly and are time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the cable connection system into separable components: a removable cable assembly with male plug and a housing with female socket, allowing the cable to be independently replaced without disassembling the entire device housing
Solution Approach 2:
The cable connection transitions from a static permanent fixation to a dynamic removable connection, enabling the cable to be easily detached and reattached while maintaining secure connection during use through the locking mechanism
2Ease of repair
If the electric power cable is made removable, then repair and replacement become easier, but the device may be switched on when the cable is not correctly engaged, causing overheating and fire risks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary anti-action by implementing a safety mechanism that prevents the device from being switched on unless the cable is correctly engaged. The activation means is mechanically locked by the plug position, so incorrect cable engagement physically prevents device operation, eliminating overheating and fire risks before they can occur
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary safety mechanism between the cable connection and device activation. The activation means serves as an intermediary element that must be freed by correct plug engagement before allowing the device to operate, thus mediating the connection between cable attachment and device function
3Reliability
If a mechanical locking mechanism is added to ensure correct cable engagement, then safety is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the locking function with the existing cable plug and socket structure. The safety mechanism uses the natural engagement motion of the plug into the socket to automatically free the activation means, combining the connection and safety functions into a single integrated action rather than adding separate complex locking components
Data Source
AI summary
A portable device has an electric motor connected to a housing with a female electrical socket, an electrical power cable with a male plug and an electrical safety device. The safety device has a first element borne by the male plug and a second element located within the housing. The second element has a locking element to lock an activation element for activating the motor in a deactivated position. The first element of the male plug is configured to engage with the locking element to free the activation element to activate the motor.