Socket Insertion Detection Circuit to Prevent Sparking

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing sockets pose safety risks due to sparking during plug insertion and continuous power output in standby mode, leading to energy waste and potential wear.

Innovation Solution

A socket assembly with a power supply electrode group and a detection electrode assembly that detects plug insertion, forming a current loop to control the inverter circuit and prevent sparking and unnecessary power consumption.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Speed

If the socket continuously outputs power in standby mode, then the socket is ready to supply power immediately, but unnecessary energy is consumed and wear increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower supply readinessVSAvoidstandby power consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The detection electrode assembly is pre-positioned to detect plug insertion before power is supplied. The control circuit is pre-configured to monitor the detection electrode and automatically activate power supply when needed, eliminating the need for continuous power output while maintaining readiness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The detection electrode assembly provides real-time feedback about plug insertion status to the control circuit. This feedback mechanism allows the socket to dynamically adjust power supply based on actual usage conditions, stopping power output when no plug is detected and reducing standby energy consumption.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Speed

If power is supplied immediately upon plug contact, then power availability is ensured, but high current surge causes sparking and safety hazards

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower supply response timeVSAvoidsparking and electrical discharge
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The detection electrode assembly is positioned to detect plug insertion before the plug contacts the power supply electrodes. This preliminary detection allows the control circuit to prepare for power supply in advance, enabling smooth power transition without sudden current surges or sparking when the plug makes contact.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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 effectively reduces safety hazards by preventing sparking and conserves energy by ensuring the socket stops power output when not in use.

Implementation Method 1

the detection electrode assembly is in the on state to form a current loop

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical Conduction: Conduction (electrical)

Data Source

PatentUS20250192480A1Socket assembly and electronic apparatus
Publication Date: 2025.06.12 ANKER INNOVATIONS TECH CO LTD
  • US20250192480A1 patent drawing
  • US20250192480A1 patent drawing
  • US20250192480A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A socket assembly and an electronic apparatus are disclosed. The socket assembly comprises a socket body, a power supply electrode group, and a detection electrode assembly. The power supply electrode group is configured to contact a plug electrode group inserted into the socket body, and contacting the plug electrode group when the plug electrode group is further inserted to a preset position in the socket body. The detection electrode assembly is configured to detect the insertion state of the plug electrode group. When the plug electrode group is not inserted to the preset position, the detection electrode assembly is in the off state. When the plug electrode group is inserted to the preset position, the detection electrode assembly is in the on state to form a current loop. The socket assembly can effectively improve the use safety of a socket and effectively save energy.