Self-Ejecting Power Cord Safety Circuit for Trailer Disconnection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current power supply systems for mobile equipment, such as refrigerated trailers, pose safety risks due to live power cords and inefficient use of engines for grid power access, leading to unnecessary fuel consumption and emissions. Existing solutions do not adequately prevent electrocution or ensure safe disengagement of power cords, especially in wet conditions.
Innovation Solution
A power supply system featuring a safety circuit panel with a self-ejecting power cord and a six-pin connector configuration that automatically shuts off power when the trailer moves away, ensuring safe disconnection and preventing faulty connections, combined with a weatherproof design to minimize exposure to liquids and human contact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a power cord is extended to reach the trailer socket, then power supply capability is improved, but safety risk increases due to live cord exposure
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by automatically shutting off power at the panel before the cord becomes fully exposed or taut. The safety circuit detects trailer movement and preemptively cuts power, preventing the harmful effect of electrocution before it can occur during cord disengagement
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary safety circuit and control system between the power source and the cord. This intermediary layer monitors trailer position and automatically interrupts power flow, acting as a mediator that allows power supply capability while eliminating the harmful electrocution risk through automated control
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the trailer is stopped to connect/disconnect power cord, then safety is improved, but productivity decreases due to operational delays
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides self-service by automatically detecting when the trailer moves and autonomously shutting off power without requiring the operator to stop or manually intervene. The safety circuit monitors trailer position and self-activates the power cutoff, eliminating the need for operational delays while maintaining safety
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the safety circuit continuously monitors trailer position and movement. When movement is detected, the system receives feedback and automatically responds by cutting power, creating a closed-loop control system that maintains safety without requiring manual intervention or stopping operations
3Adaptability or versatility
If engine runs continuously to provide grid power, then power availability is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from continuous engine operation to periodic action by enabling the trailer to connect to external grid power sources when available. The engine only operates when grid power is unavailable, creating periodic operation cycles that reduce fuel consumption while maintaining power availability through alternative sources
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies universality by designing a dual-power capability system that can accept both engine-generated power and external grid power. This multi-functional power supply system allows the trailer to universally accept different power sources, eliminating the need for continuous engine operation and reducing fuel consumption while maintaining consistent power availability
4Reliability
If power cord is left connected during trailer movement, then connection reliability is improved, but safety deteriorates due to arc generation
Solution Approach 1:
The safety circuit implements feedback by continuously monitoring trailer position relative to the panel. When the trailer moves away and the cord becomes taut or disconnected, the system receives feedback and automatically shuts off power, preventing arc generation while maintaining connection reliability during proper operation
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies preliminary anti-action by preemptively cutting power before the cord can become fully exposed or disconnected during trailer movement. The safety circuit detects movement trends and shuts off power in advance, preventing the harmful arc effect before it can occur while maintaining reliable power transfer during stable connection
Data Source
AI summary
A power supply system for use with a power source. The system includes one or more power supply connections and an optional configuration with one or more remote control panels spaced from a safety circuit panel. The safety circuit panel includes a safety circuit. The system further includes a power cable with a safety ejector subsystem. The safety ejector subsystem includes a latch connected to the wall receptacle connector of the power cable and a tension line connected to the latch and to the power cable. When the power cable is placed in tension, such as when the power cable has not been disconnected from the wall receptacle in the ordinary way, the safety ejector subsystem forces the disconnection of the power cable from a plug, thereby ensuring that no live wiring is exposed to the environment.