Electrical Socket Shutter Mechanism for Single-Pin Insertion Safety
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical sockets, particularly two-pin designs, lack effective mechanisms to prevent single-pin insertion, which poses safety risks and is not suitable for use with both two and three pin configurations, especially in travel adaptors where size is a concern.
Innovation Solution
A socket with a shutter mechanism comprising two shield elements joined by a flexible member, allowing only simultaneous insertion of both pins to open and make electrical contact, while preventing single-pin insertion through detent engagement with the housing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a shutter triggered by a G pin is used, then safety is improved by preventing single-pin insertion, but the socket cannot be used with two-pin configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The shutter mechanism is designed to work with both two-pin and three-pin plugs by removing the dependency on a specific G pin configuration. The shield elements can be activated by any pin insertion, making the safety mechanism universal across different plug types while maintaining adaptability to various socket configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The shutter mechanism is divided into separate shield elements (first and second shield elements) that can independently respond to pin insertion. This segmentation allows each shield element to be triggered by different pins, enabling the system to adapt to both two-pin and three-pin configurations while maintaining safety functionality.
2Reliability
If recessed receptacles are used to prevent single-pin insertion, then safety is improved, but the socket size increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using fixed recessed receptacles that increase socket size, the invention employs dynamic shutter elements that move to block or expose the receptacles. The shield elements can slide or rotate to cover the receptacle openings when no plug is inserted, providing safety without requiring increased socket dimensions.
Solution Approach 2:
The shutter mechanism acts as an intermediary between the receptacles and the external environment. Rather than enlarging the socket body to create recesses, the shutter elements serve as movable barriers that provide the same safety function while maintaining a compact socket design.
3Reliability
If the distance between receptacles and socket edge is increased to prevent single-pin insertion, then safety is improved, but the socket becomes too large for travel adaptors
Solution Approach 1:
The shutter mechanism provides dynamic control over receptacle accessibility, eliminating the need for increased distances between receptacles and socket edges. The movable shield elements can extend to block single-pin insertion while keeping the overall socket footprint compact, making the design suitable for travel adaptors.
4Reliability
If a shutter mechanism is added to prevent single-pin insertion, then safety is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The shutter mechanism is designed to be self-activating through spring-loaded shield elements that automatically respond to pin insertion. When a pin is inserted, it directly pushes the corresponding shield element to open the shutter, eliminating the need for complex control systems, sensors, or external power sources.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces complex electronic control systems with a simple mechanical spring-loaded shutter mechanism. The spring force provides the necessary actuation force, and the mechanical linkage between pin insertion and shutter opening eliminates the need for motors, sensors, or electronic control circuits.
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
Ensures safe operation by preventing single-pin insertion and accommodating both two and three pin designs, suitable for mains sockets, extension cables, and travel adaptors, enhancing safety and compactness.
Implementation Method 1
the first and second shield elements being joined together by a flexible member
Implementation Method 2
causes the shutter mechanism to rotate about the axis perpendicular to the axis of sliding movement bringing the detent of either the first or second shield element into engagement with the housing
Data Source
AI summary
A socket for an electric plug comprising a housing, a first and second pin receptacles, and a shutter mechanism comprising a first and second shield elements,the first and second shield elements, each comprising a detent, and are being joined together by a flexible member,the shutter mechanism being slidingly movable along an axis and also so as to be rotatable about an axis perpendicular to the sliding movement,the shutter mechanism comprising a biasing means for biasing the shutter mechanism into the first position,wherein insertion of only one pin into the first or second pin receptacle so as to contact the first or second shield element causes the shutter mechanism to rotate about the axis perpendicular to the sliding movement bringing the detent of either the first or second shield element into engagement with the housing preventing movement of the shutter mechanism into the second position.