Waterproof Socket Module With Sealed Switching and Pin Locking
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sockets and power strips lack reliable waterproof, leakage-proof, and electric-shock-proof performance, particularly in wet environments, due to worn-out seals and ineffective waterproof covers, posing safety risks.
Innovation Solution
A safety socket module with a shell, upper cover, compartments, waterproof electrical connection switches, and lock control members that clamp and bias pins to ensure sealed electrical connections, using insulating materials and elastic deformable contact pieces to prevent electric shocks and short circuits.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If rubber sealing materials are used to seal the jack, then waterproof performance is improved, but the sealing effect deteriorates after repeated plugging and unplugging due to material wear
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the sealing mechanism from material-based (rubber gaskets that wear) to geometry-based (precision-fitted cover and base with sealing grooves). The sealing performance is achieved through the geometric fit between the cover assembly and base assembly, with sealing members positioned in grooves that maintain their sealing capability regardless of plugging/unplugging cycles.
Solution Approach 2:
The socket is divided into separate cover and base assemblies that can be disassembled for maintenance or replacement. The sealing members are integrated into specific sealing grooves on these assemblies, allowing the sealing function to be maintained independently of the electrical contact components.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If waterproof covers are arranged on sockets, then splashing prevention is improved, but the protective effect is lost when plugs are inserted due to cover lifting
Solution Approach 1:
The jack assembly is nested within the cover assembly, which itself is nested within the base assembly. The cover assembly includes side walls that extend downward to cover the jack, providing continuous waterproof protection even when plugs are inserted. The nested structure ensures that the waterproof barrier remains intact during normal operation.
3Reliability
If sealing gaskets are used for waterproofing, then low-pressure water protection is improved, but protection becomes ineffective in deep water or high-pressure environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses composite sealing structures combining rigid sealing members (with high mechanical strength to resist high pressure) and flexible sealing elements (to maintain contact and adapt to slight deformations). The sealing members are positioned in precision grooves that distribute water pressure evenly, preventing deformation even under high-pressure conditions.
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 effective waterproof and electric-shock-proof performance, preventing electric shocks and short circuits even in wet conditions, ensuring safety and reliability in various environments.
Implementation Method 1
a contact surface of the isolated waterproof chamber that is biased by a respective lock control member of the lock control members is elastically deformable
Data Source
AI summary
A safety socket module includes a shell; an upper cover, configured to cover the shell, where jacks are provided on the upper cover; compartments, each being arranged in the shell and below a respective jack of the jacks and having an interior accessible from an exterior of the shell through the respective jack; waterproof electrical connection switches, arranged in the compartments and configured to asynchronously control connection and disconnection of a circuit between a power supply and a plug of an electric appliance; and lock control members, respectively arranged in the compartments and aligned with the jacks. Each of the waterproof electrical connection switches includes a waterproof capsule, and a movable contact piece and a static contact piece arranged opposite to each other in the waterproof capsule.