Retractile Socket Adapter Sealing Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional vehicle power outlets with hinged covers face space constraints in vehicle consoles, leading to interference with other devices and systems, and require additional covering structures to prevent dust and debris intrusion.
Innovation Solution
A retractile power outlet socket with a displaceable cap and resilient member that seals the socket without a cap or covering structure, using a resilient member like a coiled spring to bias the cap away from the electrical contact, ensuring sealing and safety when not in use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a hinged cover is provided to prevent dust and debris intrusion, then protection against harmful factors is improved, but device complexity and space occupation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the sealing function and the protective cover function into a single integrated retractile cap structure. The cap itself provides both the sealing barrier against dust/debris and the protective covering when retracted, eliminating the need for separate hinged covers and reducing overall device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The retractile cap automatically seals the socket opening when not in use through the biasing force of the resilient member, providing self-service protection without requiring manual operation of separate covers or caps. The system self-activates to prevent dust intrusion and protect the electrical contact
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a hinged cover is provided to prevent dust and debris intrusion, then protection against harmful factors is improved, but space available in console is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing and protective functions are merged into the retractile cap itself, which occupies minimal space when retracted into the socket body, maximizing available console space while still providing dust and debris protection
3Device complexity
If a displaceable cap with resilient member is used for sealing, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability of electrical contact may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical contact system is segmented into two separate contacts: the first electrical contact on the socket body and the second electrical contact on the retractile cap. This segmentation allows the resilient member to bias the cap without interfering with the primary electrical connection, maintaining reliability while simplifying the sealing mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The resilient member acts as an intermediary that provides the sealing force through cap displacement without directly interfering with the electrical contact between the power plug and the first electrical contact. The second electrical contact on the cap serves as a mediator that completes the circuit without compromising the primary connection
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides a space-saving, self-sealing power outlet that prevents dust and debris intrusion and accidental electrical contact without needing a separate cap, ensuring safety and efficient use of limited vehicle console space.
Implementation Method 1
a resilient member disposed to bias the displaceable cap away from the first electrical contact
Implementation Method 2
the displaceable retractile cap seals against a holder cap to sealingly occlude the socket body
Data Source
AI summary
A retractile power outlet assembly for a vehicle includes a socket body including a first electrical contact providing an electrical current from a power source and a displaceable retractile cap carrying a second electrical contact. A resilient member disposed in the socket body biases the displaceable cap away from the first electrical contact. In turn, a power plug is provided, configured for mating engagement with an interior of the socket body. The socket body further includes a holder cap against which the resilient member urges the displaceable retractile cap to sealingly occlude the socket body. The displaceable retractile cap further includes a head portion for carrying the second electrical contact, the head portion including a flange configured to receive a sealing gasket to provide that sealingly occluding fit. The head portion further includes a bore configured to receive the third electrical contact therethrough to touch the second electrical contact.