Tethered Removable Plug AC Adapter for Space-Efficient Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Convertible AC adapters require separate storage or disposal of either the plug or extension cord components, as they cannot be used simultaneously.
Innovation Solution
An AC adapter design that integrates a unitary plug and extension cord within a storage cavity, allowing the extension cord to be deployed when the plug is disconnected, maintaining electrical connection and eliminating the need for extraneous components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the adapter is designed with both a removable plug and an extension cord as separate components, then the adapter can be converted between direct plug-in and extended reach modes, but the adapter requires separate storage space for the unused component and increases overall device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the removable plug and extension cord into a single integrated component. The plug is attached to one end of the extension cord, creating a unified assembly that eliminates the need for separate storage of these components. When the plug is removed from the adapter housing, the extension cord remains tethered and can be deployed for extended reach, while the plug-cord assembly stays organized as one unit.
Solution Approach 2:
The extension cord with attached plug is nested within the adapter housing when not in use. The cord and plug assembly fits inside the housing cavity, keeping it compact and eliminating the need for external storage. This nesting approach allows the adapter to maintain a compact form factor while still providing extended reach capability when needed.
2Ease of operation
If the extension cord is provided as a separate component, then the adapter can achieve extended reach, but the user must separately store or discard the cord when not in use
Solution Approach 1:
By attaching the plug to the extension cord to form a single integrated assembly, the patent eliminates the need for separate storage of these components. The unified plug-cord assembly is either stored within the adapter housing or deployed together, reducing clutter and simplifying user interaction.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter housing serves dual purposes: it houses the electrical components and also serves as the storage container for the extension cord when not in use. This self-service approach eliminates the need for separate storage solutions, as the adapter itself provides the storage function.
3Volume of moving object
If the adapter housing contains a storage cavity for the extension cord, then the adapter maintains a compact form factor, but the cord must be deployed from within the housing when needed
Solution Approach 1:
The extension cord is nested within the adapter housing cavity, allowing the adapter to maintain a compact form factor. The cord fits inside the housing when not in use, and can be deployed by removing the plug from the housing, which allows the cord to extend outward. This nesting approach efficiently utilizes the housing space.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter design segments the functionality into distinct parts: the housing contains the electrical components and stores the cord, while the plug-cord assembly provides the connection and extension capability. This segmentation allows for modular manufacturing and assembly, reducing overall integration complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
An AC adapter having electronics for converting AC electricity to DC voltage is presented herein. The adapter includes an adapter housing, a plug and a built-in extension cord contained within a storage cavity defined by the adapter housing. The extension cord extends from the electronics to the plug. In a first engagement state the plug is mechanically engaged to the adapter housing such that the plug body completely covers the opening into the storage cavity, and the adapter housing and plug are a single structure that may be plugged directly into a wall outlet. In a second engagement state the plug is removed from the mechanical engagement with the adapter housing, and may be plugged into an outlet some distance from the adapter housing as limited by the length of the extension cord, which maintains electrical connection between the plug and the electronics within the adapter housing.