U-Shaped Socket Adapter Prevents Plug Slippage
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Standard electrical outlets in North America often experience plug slippage due to the design of the two parallel blades, leading to temporary loss of electrical connection, especially with handheld devices, and existing solutions are complex, expensive, or impractical.
Innovation Solution
A U-shaped apparatus with nodules is inserted into the slots of a standard electrical socket, providing additional friction by hooking onto the socket's face plate, preventing accidental slippage without making the connection permanent.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing mechanical solutions (hinge, sliding latch plate) are used to prevent plug slippage, then plug stability is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a thin plastic strip with cutouts that flexibly engages with the plug blades and socket slots. This flexible thin film structure provides plug stabilization without requiring complex mechanical assemblies, hinges, or sliding latch plates, thus resolving the contradiction between reliability and device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The plastic strip is segmented with cutouts that create multiple engagement points with the plug blades and socket slots. This segmentation allows the single strip to provide distributed stabilization across multiple contact points, achieving reliable plug retention without complex mechanical structures
2Reliability
If existing mechanical solutions are used to prevent plug slippage, then plug stability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The thin plastic strip can be manufactured using simple extrusion or molding processes, avoiding the need for multiple interconnected mechanical parts that require assembly. This significantly reduces manufacturing cost while maintaining plug stabilization functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The plastic strip is designed as a simple, inexpensive component that can be easily manufactured and replaced if needed. Its low material cost and simple construction make it an economical solution compared to durable but expensive mechanical assemblies
3Reliability
If existing solutions are used to prevent plug slippage, then plug stability is improved, but ease of use deteriorates due to cumbersome installation
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible plastic strip can be easily inserted into the socket and adjusted to fit different plug configurations. Its flexibility allows for simple installation without requiring mechanical attachment or complex alignment, improving ease of use while maintaining plug stability
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 U-shaped apparatus securely holds the plug in place, reducing accidental slippage while allowing easy removal, thus enhancing the stability of electrical connections in standard outlets without the need for complex or costly modifications.
Implementation Method 1
providing additional friction by hooking onto the socket's face plate
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is generally related to an apparatus for use with an electrical outlet to improve electrical device fit and more particularly related to an apparatus for providing a tighter fit for electrical power blades of the plug portion of an electric powered device within a standard electrical outlet so as to prevent the electrical power blades from slipping out of the electrical outlet during use of the electrical device.