Trim Ring USB Receptacle Layout for Low-Profile Marine Charging
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a convenient, aesthetic, and low-profile USB charging solution specifically designed for marine vessels and RVs, which can also be integrated into dashboard devices.
Innovation Solution
An integrated charging receptacle with a ring body having an inner and outer wall, a groove for securing wires, and multiple USB receptacles, which can be mounted around cup holders, instrument gauges, or dashboard instruments, and includes a weather-resistant protective cap and optional LED illumination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If USB charging receptacles are integrated into marine vessels or RVs, then charging convenience is improved, but installation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the USB receptacle, mounting ring, and sealing components into a single integrated assembly that mounts around existing cup holders or dashboard instruments. This merging of components simplifies installation by reducing the number of separate parts that need to be installed while providing charging convenience in marine vessels or RVs.
Solution Approach 2:
The ring body serves multiple functions: it provides structural mounting support, creates a seal against moisture, houses the USB receptacle, and can be illuminated by LEDs. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, thereby reducing installation complexity while improving charging convenience.
2Ease of operation
If USB charging receptacles are integrated into marine vessels or RVs, then charging accessibility is improved, but aesthetic appearance may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The ring body can be translucent to allow the underlying cup holder or dashboard instrument to show through, maintaining aesthetic appearance. The USB receptacle is positioned on the outer surface for easy accessibility, while the protective cap can be removed or retractable to maintain a clean look when not in use.
Solution Approach 2:
The ring body may include LEDs that illuminate the ring, providing both aesthetic enhancement and visibility in low-light conditions. The translucent material allows the LED light to diffuse through the ring, creating an attractive visual effect while maintaining charging accessibility.
3Ease of operation
If USB charging receptacles are integrated into marine vessels or RVs, then charging functionality is improved, but vulnerability to environmental factors increases
Solution Approach 1:
The ring body includes a groove that receives a protective cap or seal that prevents moisture and debris from entering the USB receptacle when not in use. This protective feature is built into the design from the beginning, cushioning the receptacle against environmental factors while maintaining charging functionality when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The protective cap acts as an intermediary between the USB receptacle and the external environment. It seals the receptacle when not in use, preventing direct exposure to moisture and debris, while allowing easy access when charging is needed.
4Quantity of substance
If USB charging receptacles are integrated into marine vessels or RVs, then charging capacity is improved, but profile height increases
Solution Approach 1:
The USB receptacle is positioned within the ring body structure, nesting it within the existing mounting space around cup holders or dashboard instruments. This nesting approach allows multiple USB receptacles to be included within the ring body without significantly increasing the overall profile height.
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 provides a convenient, aesthetically pleasing, and low-profile USB charging system that can be easily integrated into various devices on marine vessels and RVs, ensuring reliable charging and enhancing user experience.
Implementation Method 1
The ring body may be substantially translucent and the ring body includes at least one LED for illuminating the ring body
Data Source
AI summary
An integrated charging receptacle including a ring body having an inner ring wall and an outer ring wall, a groove between the inner ring wall and outer ring wall for securing a wire or cable and a USB receptacle having a receptacle jack. The USB receptacle is disposed on a portion of the ring body and faces outward from the outer wall of the ring body. The ring body may be secured around a cup holder mountable in a surface or around an instrument gauge in a surface. The ring body may be secured around a dashboard instrument. The integrated charging receptacle may include a second USB receptacle having a second receptacle jack. The USB receptacle may be powered through an electrical wire passing through a portion of the body groove. The integrated charging receptacle may include at least two additional USB receptacles. The ring body may be substantially translucent.