Rotating Outlet Unit for Power Strip Accessibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users face difficulties in accessing power outlets on power strips and surge protectors due to their fixed orientation, which can be inconvenient in various environments, especially where space is limited.
Innovation Solution
A power device with a rotating outlet unit that can pivot between two positions, allowing power outlets to be oriented on either side of the housing, facilitated by a rotary socket element and protrusions/dimples for secure positioning and frictional resistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the power outlets are fixed in a single orientation on the housing, then the device structure is simple, but the user cannot access the outlets conveniently in various environments
Solution Approach 1:
The outlet unit is made rotatable relative to the housing, allowing it to change orientation dynamically. The rotation mechanism includes a rotary socket element that enables the outlet unit to pivot between multiple positions, transforming the static outlet configuration into a dynamic one that adapts to different usage scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The outlet unit is separated from the main housing as an independent rotatable component. This segmentation allows the outlet unit to be rotated independently to achieve desired orientation while keeping the housing structure simple. The rotary socket element acts as a coupling mechanism that maintains electrical connection during rotation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the outlet unit is made rotatable to provide access from multiple sides, then outlet accessibility is improved, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The outlet unit incorporates a rotation mechanism that allows it to pivot between a first position (outlets on one side) and a second position (outlets on another side). This dynamic capability enables the device to adapt to different spatial configurations and usage requirements without requiring multiple separate devices.
Solution Approach 2:
A rotary socket element serves as an intermediary component between the housing and the outlet unit. This intermediary element facilitates the rotation while maintaining electrical connectivity, allowing the outlet unit to change orientation without compromising the power supply function.
3Manufacturing precision
If protrusions and dimples are added to secure the rotating outlet unit, then positioning accuracy is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The protrusions and dimples are designed to automatically engage and lock the outlet unit in specific positions during rotation. This self-locking mechanism eliminates the need for additional locking components or complex control systems, allowing the positioning function to be achieved through the geometric features alone.
Solution Approach 2:
The protrusions and dimples create discrete stable positions for the outlet unit, ensuring that during rotation, the outlet unit naturally settles into predetermined orientations. This equipotential design provides stable positioning without requiring active control or complex manufacturing tolerances.
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
Enables convenient access to power outlets on either side of the device, accommodating different environments and reducing the challenge of outlet orientation, thus enhancing usability in space-constrained settings.
Implementation Method 1
The housing and the casing include at least one protrusion provided on one of the housing and the casing and at least two dimples provided on the other of the housing and the casing. The at least one dimple is configured to be seated in one of the at least two dimples when positioned in the first and second positions.
Data Source
AI summary
A power device (10) includes a housing (12), a power input interface provided on the housing, and a rotating outlet unit (30) coupled to the housing. The rotating outlet unit has a plurality of power outlets (38) to distribute power from the power input interface. The rotating outlet unit is configured to rotate between a first position in which the power outlets are disposed on one side of the housing and a second position in which the power outlets are disposed on another side of the housing. A method for providing power to electrical components is further disclosed.