In-Wall Power Adapter With Wallplate-Retained Control Module
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Solution Overview
Problem
Homeowners face challenges in easily and safely replacing in-wall power adapters, which can be costly and risky, and often require professional installation, especially in newly constructed homes where the optimal placement of power adapters is not immediately known, leading to frustration and additional expenses.
Innovation Solution
An in-wall power adapter system with accessible contact elements and a control attachment that allows for easy configuration and modification without the need for professional installation, enabling users to change functionality without exposing themselves to high voltage risks, using a housing that retains a flange of the control attachment behind a wallplate.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a homeowner replaces an in-wall power adapter, then the functionality can be updated, but the installation cost and safety risk increase due to professional installation requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The power adapter is divided into two separable components: a permanent in-wall unit and a removable control attachment. The control attachment contains the functional elements (switches, dimmers, timers) that can be easily replaced without touching the in-wall portion, eliminating the need for professional electrical work while updating functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The control functionality is extracted from the in-wall power adapter and placed into a separate removable control attachment. This allows the functional components to be taken out and replaced independently, reducing installation complexity and cost while maintaining adaptability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a homeowner replaces a power adapter, then the desired functionality can be achieved, but the risk of shock or bodily harm increases during installation
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the power adapter into a permanent in-wall unit and a removable control attachment, the dangerous electrical connections remain enclosed in the in-wall portion, while the user interacts only with the safe, removable control attachment, eliminating shock risk during functionality changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The removable control attachment acts as an intermediary between the user and the electrical system. Users interact with this safe external component rather than directly with the in-wall electrical connections, mediating the interaction to eliminate harmful exposure.
3Productivity
If power adapters are placed during new construction, then initial installation is completed, but future reconfiguration requires additional cost and time
Solution Approach 1:
The control attachment is designed to be dynamically replaceable, allowing users to adapt the power adapter functionality over time without permanent modifications. The removable design enables easy reconfiguration as needs change, while the initial installation remains simple and efficient.
Data Source
AI summary
An in-wall power adapter configured to apply power to a load is described. The in-wall power adapter may comprise a first plurality of contact elements accessible on at least one outer surface of the in-wall power adapter, the first plurality of contact elements comprising a first contact element configured to receive a power signal and a second contact element configured to receive a neutral signal; an outlet configured to receive the power signal and the neutral signal; a second plurality of contact elements configured to provide the power signal and the neutral signal to a control attachment; and a housing configured to receive a wall plate adapted to be coupled to the in-wall power adapter; wherein the housing is adapted to retain a flange of a control attachment between the housing and the wallplate when the wallplate is coupled to the in-wall power adapter.