Securable Power Adapter With Foldable Prongs And Fastening Tabs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power adapters for mobile devices are often insecurely plugged into outlets, leading to accidental removal, theft, or damage, and existing securing solutions are either device-specific or cumbersome.
Innovation Solution
A power adapter with foldable male prongs and secure fastening tabs that fit into standard wall outlets, along with a cord-fastening mechanism, ensuring secure attachment and compatibility with a wide range of devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If power adapters are left plugged into wall outlets in an unsecured manner to support multiple devices, then device compatibility and ease of use are improved, but security and reliability deteriorate due to accidental removal, theft, or damage
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter is divided into separate functional components: a wall outlet adapter portion with fastening tabs for secure mounting, and a detachable power cord assembly with connector. This segmentation allows the adapter body to remain securely mounted while the cord can be adjusted or replaced for different devices, resolving the contradiction between security and versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening tabs are pre-configured on the adapter body to engage with the wall outlet structure before the power cord is connected. This preliminary securing action ensures the adapter is firmly mounted and resistant to theft or accidental removal before any device connection is made
2Reliability
If existing securing solutions like molded enclosures are used to secure power adapters to wall outlets, then security is improved, but adaptability deteriorates due to device-specific compatibility requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening tabs are designed with a universal geometry that engages with the standard wall outlet structure rather than being specific to any particular adapter model or device type. This universal design allows the same adapter body to securely mount any power adapter while maintaining compatibility with various power cords and device connectors, resolving the contradiction between security and adaptability
3Reliability
If existing securing solutions require additional equipment like zip ties to secure power adapter cords, then security is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cord-fastening means is integrated directly into the adapter body structure, merging the cord retention function with the main adapter housing. This eliminates the need for separate external securing devices like zip ties, while the fastening tabs remain integrated into the same housing, reducing overall complexity while maintaining security
Solution Approach 2:
The cord-fastening means is designed to automatically engage and secure the power cord through friction or interlocking features without requiring additional tools or external fastening devices. The structure serves its own cord retention function through its inherent geometry, eliminating the need for separate securing equipment
4Reliability
If power adapters are secured with means not specifically designed for adapters, then security may be improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to unwieldy or easily overcome securing methods
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening tabs are designed with a dynamic engagement mechanism that provides strong holding force during normal use but allows for easy release when needed. The tabs can be flexed or pressed to disengage from the wall outlet, providing a balance between secure mounting during operation and ease of removal when the user needs to relocate or service the adapter
Data Source
AI summary
A power adapter with a cord-fastening, and one or more fastening tabs for semi-permanently securing the power adapter to a wall socket. Female receptacles within the device can be designed to accept standard corded connections widely accepted in use with electronic devices (e.g. mobile phones, tablets, and other personal electronic devices) such as male ends of various USB (Universal Serial Bus) standards or other well-known connector types. Male prongs can be designed to fit into a standard wall outlet, and optionally can be designed to fold into the adapter body when not in use.