Rotatable Power Receptacle for Socket Accessibility and Safety
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional power strips with closely arranged sockets are inefficient due to space constraints, especially when large power adapters cover adjacent sockets, and pose safety risks when not designed for accessibility and fire hazards, particularly in travel scenarios where multiple devices require different voltage compatibility and limited outlet availability.
Innovation Solution
A power receptacle device featuring rotatable sockets mounted within a stationary base, allowing sockets to be concealed when not in use and exposed as needed, enhancing accessibility and safety by preventing accidental contact and reducing fire risks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If sockets are arranged closely together on the base, then the power strip size is minimized, but adjacent sockets are blocked by power cables with large power adapters
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the base rotatable, allowing it to change orientation between a compact configuration (reducing volume) and an extended configuration (improving socket accessibility). The base can rotate to position sockets away from blocking power cables, dynamically adapting to different usage scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes dimensional change by introducing rotational movement around a vertical axis, transforming the static linear arrangement into a multi-dimensional configuration. This allows sockets to be repositioned in the horizontal plane without increasing the footprint, effectively adding another degree of freedom to the system.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the power strip is hidden behind furniture for safety and aesthetics, then safety is improved, but accessibility for frequent use items deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The rotatable base enables dynamic positioning where the power strip can be partially extended from behind furniture for frequently used devices while keeping less accessible sockets hidden. This dynamic configuration allows simultaneous optimization of both safety (hidden position) and accessibility (extended position).
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple sockets are provided per room, then device power needs are met, but the risk of fire or electric shock increases if a socket is on the ground and liquid accumulates
Solution Approach 1:
The rotatable base provides universal positioning capability, allowing all sockets to be oriented away from the ground regardless of which socket is in use. This multi-functional positioning system eliminates the ground-level socket hazard while maintaining adaptability for multiple devices.
Data Source
AI summary
A power receptacle device has a stationary base and at least one rotating base. The at least one rotating base is mounted rotatably in the stationary base and has at least one socket. The at least one socket is covered when the rotating base is rotated to a position to prevent users from touching the at least one socket and getting electric shock. Further, because the at least one rotating base is rotatable, the at least one socket on the at least one rotating base is exposed and accessible when the at least one rotating base is turned out from the at least one rotating base.