Socket Timer Actuator Dynamics for Setting Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sockets with built-in timers are difficult to set and can be unintentionally changed during operation, posing a risk of improper timing settings.
Innovation Solution
A socket design that allows manual adjustment of the timer actuator before use, with the actuator becoming inaccessible once the plug is inserted, featuring a rotatable axle with a slot for external adjustment and a scale for reading set times, ensuring the setting remains unchanged during operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the actuator is made accessible for adjustment during operation, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability deteriorates due to unintentional changes
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator's accessibility is made dynamic rather than static. During operation when the plug is inserted, the actuator becomes inaccessible. Before operation when no plug is inserted, the actuator is accessible for adjustment. This dynamic state change resolves the contradiction by providing ease of operation when needed while ensuring reliability when the device is active.
2Reliability
If the actuator is made inaccessible during operation, then the reliability is improved, but the ease of operation worsens
Solution Approach 1:
All necessary adjustments to the actuator are performed in advance before the plug is inserted into the socket. The preliminary positioning of the actuator determines the timer period, and once the plug is inserted, the actuator is no longer accessible. This preliminary action ensures reliability during operation while maintaining ease of operation during the setup phase.
3Ease of operation
If manual adjustment is allowed before use, then the ease of operation is improved, but the risk of unintentional changes increases
Solution Approach 1:
The design prevents harmful unintentional changes by making the actuator inaccessible during operation. The preliminary adjustment phase allows easy setting, but once the plug is inserted, the actuator is protected from further manipulation. This preliminary anti-action counteracts the potential harm of unintentional changes while preserving ease of operation during the intended adjustment window.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
AI summary
The outlet has a socket consisting of an insulating material, and a support ring that is fixed at the socket. A plug socket lid (11) is provided for receiving a plug connector. A rotatable actuator (25) for adjusting an auxiliary device fixed at the socket is arranged behind an opening (30) in a base (12) of the lid. The auxiliary device is provided in a housing fixed at the socket, and the actuator is supported at the socket.