Description:Brief Description of the Drawings

The present disclosure relates to electrical connection systems. Particularly, the present disclosure relates to an electrical socket comprising housing with integral safety and installation features.
Background
The background description includes information that may be useful in understanding the present invention. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed invention, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.
Traditional electric sockets primarily employ a standard three-pin configuration necessitating users to manipulate plugs for proper insertion. The utilization of such configuration is widespread in residential and commercial environments. However, this traditional system is fraught with several challenges. The manipulation of plugs not only increases cable tension but also accelerates wear on the components. Moreover, the frequent handling and incorrect insertion of plugs heighten the risk of electrical hazards. These issues are prominent and have led to calls for innovations that address safety, convenience, and durability of electrical connections.
The design of traditional sockets often leads to user frustration due to the required orientation for plug insertion. Such frustration is compounded by the design's limitations in terms of ease of use and accessibility. This conventional configuration necessitates clear labelling and often requires users to engage in trial and error to connect devices successfully. Additionally, the wear and tear on socket components can lead to loose connections, which not only reduce the efficiency of the electrical connection but also increase the likelihood of sparking and electrical fires. Moreover, such issues exacerbate the risks associated with electrical sockets, thereby posing significant safety concerns.
In contrast, innovations like USB and smart sockets have emerged to offer alternatives that address some of these limitations. USB sockets, for example, provide a more flexible connection option that reduces wear and tear due to their lower profile and standardized design. Smart sockets enhance user safety and convenience through features like remote control and monitoring, which prevent overloading and automatically shut off power in the event of a fault. However, these alternatives also come with their own set of challenges. USB sockets, while convenient, do not replace the need for traditional three-pin sockets and are limited by the types of devices they can power. Smart sockets, on the other hand, involve higher costs and require compatibility with other smart home systems, limiting their accessibility and widespread adoption.
Given the limitations of both traditional and more modern electrical sockets, there exists an urgent need for solutions that overcome the challenges associated with conventional systems. The OmniSocket addresses these issues by introducing a bi-directional design that enhances user convenience, improves safety, and extends the longevity of the socket and connected devices. This revolutionary approach offers significant improvements over existing systems, providing a much-needed alternative in the landscape of electrical fittings.

Summary
The following presents a simplified summary of various aspects of this disclosure in order to provide a basic understanding of such aspects. This summary is not an extensive overview of all contemplated aspects, and is intended to neither identify key or critical elements nor delineate the scope of such aspects. Its purpose is to present some concepts of this disclosure in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.
The following paragraphs provide additional support for the claims of the subject application.
In an aspect, the present disclosure aims to provide an electrical socket comprising a housing defining six-pin holes arranged in opposing pairs to receive an electrical plug in any orientation relative to the housing. An internal fuse disposed within the housing is configured to disconnect electrical connectivity within the electrical socket upon detection of a short circuit condition. A grounding mechanism is incorporated within the housing to facilitate electrical grounding of the electrical socket. Electrical isolation components integrated within the housing are designed to maintain electrical isolation between connections within the electrical socket to prevent short circuits and minimize risks of electrical hazards. Connection interfaces on the housing conform to standard electrical socket dimensions and are configured to facilitate installation of the electrical socket into existing electrical systems without modifications to these systems.
In an embodiment, the electrical socket further comprises a locking mechanism mechanically engaged with the housing. The locking mechanism is configured to secure an electrical plug within the six-pin holes in a fixed orientation. This feature ensures that once the plug is inserted, it remains securely in position, preventing accidental disconnections.
In an embodiment, the six-pin holes include mechanical guides to facilitate the insertion of electrical plugs into the six-pin holes. These guides help align the plug properly with the socket, reducing the likelihood of damage during insertion and ensuring a secure electrical connection.
In an embodiment, the electrical socket further comprises a magnetic alignment system. This system is configured to assist in the alignment and retention of electrical plugs within the six-pin holes, enhancing the ease of use and stability of the plug connections.
In an embodiment, the grounding mechanism includes a mechanical switch to manually engage or disengage the grounding functionality. This feature allows for enhanced control over the grounding process, ensuring safety during different operational conditions.
In an embodiment, the electrical socket further comprises a ventilation system integrated into the housing. The ventilation system is configured to promote air circulation within the electrical socket, thereby reducing heat buildup and potentially extending the life of the socket components.
In an embodiment, the electrical socket further comprises a mechanical actuator configured to automatically eject an electrical plug from the six-pin holes upon certain conditions being met. This automatic ejection mechanism adds a layer of convenience and safety, enabling easy removal of plugs and preventing overheating or electrical faults.
In an embodiment, the electrical socket further comprises a cable management system integrated into the housing. This system is configured to organize and secure cables connected to the electrical socket, aiding in maintaining an orderly and safe working environment.
In an embodiment, the electrical socket further comprises a force distribution structure within the housing. This structure is configured to evenly distribute mechanical forces exerted on the socket during plug insertion and removal. It protects the integrity of the socket and prolongs its usability by minimizing physical stress on its components.

Field of the Invention

The features and advantages of the present disclosure would be more clearly understood from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:
FIG. 1 illustrates an electrical socket, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure.
Detailed Description
In the following detailed description of the invention, reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof, and in which is shown, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. In the drawings, like numerals describe substantially similar components throughout the several views. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to claim those skilled in the art to practice the invention. Other embodiments may be utilized and structural, logical, and electrical changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present invention is defined only by the appended claims and equivalents thereof.
The use of the terms “a” and “an” and “the” and “at least one” and similar referents in the context of describing the invention (especially in the context of the following claims) are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The use of the term “at least one” followed by a list of one or more items (for example, “at least one of A and B”) is to be construed to mean one item selected from the listed items (A or B) or any combination of two or more of the listed items (A and B), unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The terms “comprising,” “having,” “including,” and “containing” are to be construed as open-ended terms (i.e., meaning “including, but not limited to,”) unless otherwise noted. Recitation of ranges of values herein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”) provided herein, is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention unless otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as essential to the practice of the invention.
Pursuant to the "Detailed Description" section herein, whenever an element is explicitly associated with a specific numeral for the first time, such association shall be deemed consistent and applicable throughout the entirety of the "Detailed Description" section, unless otherwise expressly stated or contradicted by the context.
As used herein, the term 'housing' relates to a structural component that encases or supports other components within an electrical device. The housing in the context of the electrical socket serves as a protective enclosure that defines six-pin holes arranged in opposing pairs. Each pair of pin holes is specifically configured to receive an electrical plug in any orientation relative to the housing. This design not only accommodates a variety of plug orientations but also enhances the usability and accessibility of the electrical socket. The housing is designed to integrate seamlessly with other components like the internal fuse, grounding mechanism, electrical isolation components, and connection interfaces, ensuring a compact and efficient assembly. By maintaining these configurations, the housing contributes significantly to the overall functionality and safety of the electrical socket.
The term 'internal fuse' as used herein refers to a safety device located within the housing of an electrical socket. This internal fuse is designed to detect and respond to abnormal electrical currents, such as those caused by a short circuit. Upon detection of such conditions, the internal fuse is configured to immediately disconnect electrical connectivity within the socket. This action prevents potential damage to the electrical system and reduces the risk of fire or electrical shock. The internal fuse thus plays a critical role in ensuring the safety and reliability of the electrical socket, offering a crucial protective measure against electrical faults.
The term 'grounding mechanism' as used herein denotes a system incorporated within the housing of an electrical socket designed to facilitate the electrical grounding of the socket. This mechanism ensures that any stray or excess electrical charge is safely conducted away from the socket to the ground. Such grounding is vital for the prevention of electrical shocks and fires, contributing to the overall safety of the electrical installation. The grounding mechanism, by providing a direct path to the earth, also enhances the protective measures of the internal fuse by enabling effective operation under fault conditions.
As used herein, the term 'electrical isolation components' relates to parts integrated within the housing of an electrical socket designed to maintain electrical isolation between different connections. These components are essential for preventing short circuits and minimizing the risks of electrical hazards. By effectively isolating electrical connections within the socket, these components ensure that electrical currents do not unintentionally bridge across unintended paths, thus maintaining the integrity and safety of the electrical system. The electrical isolation components thereby contribute significantly to the safe operation of the electrical socket.
The term 'connection interfaces' as used herein refers to the physical points of connection located on the housing of an electrical socket. These interfaces are configured to conform to standard electrical socket dimensions, facilitating the installation of the electrical socket into existing electrical systems without the need for modifications. By providing standardized connection points, the connection interfaces ensure compatibility and ease of installation, making the electrical socket a versatile and practical choice for various electrical installations. The design and configuration of the connection interfaces are critical for ensuring that the electrical socket can be easily integrated into different setups while maintaining safety and reliability.
FIG. 1 illustrates an electrical socket (100), in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure. The electrical socket (100) is provided which includes a housing (102) defining six-pin holes arranged in opposing pairs, wherein each pair of said six-pin holes is configured to receive an electrical plug in any orientation relative to said housing (102). The configuration of said six-pin holes in said opposing pairs enables the reception of plugs in multiple orientations, thereby facilitating the ease of use and increasing the versatility of said electrical socket (100). Each pair of said six-pin holes has been developed to ensure compatibility with various plug types, promoting the adaptability of said electrical socket (100) across different electronic devices and power systems.
Said housing (102) is structured to encase and support the internal components of said electrical socket (100). The arrangement of said six-pin holes within said housing (102) is carefully aligned to allow for the optimal reception of electrical plugs, regardless of their orientation. Said housing (102) is fabricated from materials that provide durability and resistance to electrical hazards, ensuring the longevity and continuous safety of said electrical socket (100) during operation. The design of said housing (102) also incorporates considerations for heat dissipation and resistance to environmental factors such as moisture and dust, which could otherwise compromise the functionality of said electrical socket (100).
Incorporated within said housing (102), an internal fuse (104) is disposed to provide safety features to said electrical socket (100). Said internal fuse (104) is configured to detect abnormal electrical currents indicative of a short circuit condition. Upon such detection, said internal fuse (104) is activated to disconnect electrical connectivity within said electrical socket (100). The disconnection of electrical connectivity by said internal fuse (104) occurs swiftly to prevent the occurrence of electrical hazards such as fires or damage to connected devices. The operational parameters of said internal fuse (104) are calibrated to respond promptly under predefined electrical conditions, thus offering reliable protection against common electrical faults.
The placement of said internal fuse (104) within said housing (102) ensures that all components are contained within a single unit, simplifying installation and maintenance. The integration of said internal fuse (104) within said housing (102) also contributes to the compact design of said electrical socket (100), allowing for efficient use of space within electrical panels or consumer environments. Furthermore, the operation of said internal fuse (104) is automatic and does not require manual intervention, thereby providing continuous protection without user engagement.
The grounding mechanism, which is incorporated within the housing of the electrical socket, is configured to facilitate electrical grounding of the socket. Grounding is achieved by providing a pathway for electric current to earth ground, thereby preventing any undesirable voltage spikes or accumulation of static electricity that could lead to electrical shocks or fires. The grounding mechanism (106) comprises materials and structures capable of conducting electrical current efficiently to the ground. It is connected in such a way that, in the event of a fault, the stray current is immediately directed towards the earth, thereby significantly reducing the risk of electrical hazards to users and equipment connected to the socket.
Adjacent to the grounding mechanism, the electrical isolation components are integrated within the housing of the electrical socket. These components are configured to maintain electrical isolation between connections within the socket. By preventing electrical current from inadvertently crossing from one connection to another, these isolation components are key to preventing short circuits. This is achieved by incorporating materials that do not conduct electricity, arranged in a manner that spaces electrical contacts adequately apart from each other. Moreover, these components are shaped and positioned within the housing to provide maximum effectiveness in maintaining isolation, thereby minimizing risks of electrical hazards associated with short circuits.
Lastly, the connection interfaces on the housing of the electrical socket are specifically configured to conform to standard electrical socket dimensions. This standardization facilitates the installation of the electrical socket into existing electrical systems without requiring modifications to those systems. The connection interfaces include physical structures that match commonly used configurations in electrical installations, enabling seamless integration. These interfaces are crafted to allow easy and secure connection of the socket with electrical wiring and other components of an electrical system, providing a reliable and efficient electrical connection.
The electrical socket (100) distinguishes itself with a bi-directional design that allows for effortless insertion of plugs in any direction, eliminating the need for specific orientation and thereby reducing cable tension, wear, and stress on the socket and plug components. This innovative feature enhances user convenience and extends the durability of both the socket and connected devices. The socket's construction incorporates fire-resistant materials and an internal fuse that significantly heightens safety by reducing the risk of electrical fires and other hazards. The robust, high-strength materials used in the construction of the electrical socket (100) ensure exceptional durability and longevity, making it a reliable choice for rigorous daily use. Furthermore, the standard dimensions and compatibility of the electrical socket (100) facilitate easy installation into existing electrical systems without necessitating modifications, promoting versatility across various settings such as homes, offices, and commercial areas. The inclusion of a grounding functionality enhances safety by effectively dissipating excess electrical energy and preventing potential hazards, thereby safeguarding the electrical environment. Additionally, the design simplifies plug insertion, allowing a hassle-free and frustration-free connection process. This not only streamlines the user experience but also minimizes risks associated with electrical hazards such as short circuits and overheating, ultimately providing users with a safer, more reliable, and user-friendly electrical solution.
In an embodiment, the electrical socket (100) further comprises a locking mechanism mechanically engaged with said housing (102). Said locking mechanism is configured to secure an electrical plug within said six-pin holes in a fixed orientation. The function of the locking mechanism is to maintain the connection integrity between the plug and the socket by preventing accidental disconnection or movement of the plug once it is inserted. This mechanism is particularly beneficial in environments where vibrations or frequent movements might otherwise dislodge the plug. The mechanism operates through a series of mechanical catches or latches that engage with a corresponding feature on the plug, effectively locking it in place once fully inserted into the socket.
In an embodiment, the electrical socket (100) includes mechanical guides associated with said six-pin holes. These guides are configured to facilitate the insertion of electrical plugs into said six-pin holes by aligning and directing the plug towards the optimal insertion path. The mechanical guides consist of contoured or grooved components within each pin hole, which guide the plug’s pins into the correct position, thereby reducing the likelihood of damage to the pins or the internal components of the socket during insertion. This feature is particularly advantageous for ensuring proper connectivity and ease of use, especially in low visibility or high-density wiring environments.
In an embodiment, the electrical socket (100) further comprises a magnetic alignment system. This system is configured to assist in the alignment and retention of electrical plugs within said six-pin holes. The magnetic alignment system utilizes magnetic fields to automatically align the plug with the socket as it approaches the entry point, ensuring a precise and secure connection. Additionally, the magnetic force helps to retain the plug within the socket, providing an additional layer of security against accidental disconnections.
In an embodiment, said grounding mechanism (106) of the electrical socket (100) includes a mechanical switch. This switch is configured to manually engage or disengage said grounding functionality. The inclusion of a mechanical switch allows users to selectively activate the grounding path depending on the operational requirements or safety concerns. This feature is beneficial in scenarios where maintenance or testing might require the temporary isolation of the grounding function to prevent unwanted grounding paths.
In an embodiment, the electrical socket (100) further comprises a ventilation system integrated into said housing (102). Said ventilation system is configured to promote air circulation within said electrical socket (100). The ventilation system aids in dissipating heat generated by electrical currents within the socket, thereby preventing overheating and enhancing the longevity and safety of the electrical components. The system typically includes air vents or channels strategically placed within the housing to allow for efficient air flow.
In an embodiment, the electrical socket (100) further comprises a mechanical actuator. This actuator is configured to automatically eject an electrical plug from said six-pin holes upon certain conditions being met, such as the press of a button, the attainment of a specific time limit, or the detection of an electrical fault. The automatic ejection mechanism simplifies the disconnection process and enhances safety by ensuring that plugs can be quickly and easily removed when necessary, minimizing user contact with electrical components.
In an embodiment, the electrical socket (100) further comprises a cable management system integrated into said housing (102). Said cable management system is configured to organize and secure cables connected to said electrical socket (100). This system typically includes clips, guides, or channels that hold cables in place, reducing clutter and minimizing the risk of accidental disconnections or damage to the cables due to tangling or undue stress.
In an embodiment, the electrical socket (100) further comprises a force distribution structure within said housing (102). This structure is configured to evenly distribute mechanical forces exerted on said socket (100) during plug insertion and removal. By distributing these forces across a wider area within the housing, the force distribution structure prevents localized stress and potential damage to both the housing and the internal components of the socket, thus maintaining the structural integrity and operational reliability of the socket.
Example embodiments herein have been described above with reference to block diagrams and flowchart illustrations of methods and apparatuses. It will be understood that each block of the block diagrams and flowchart illustrations, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and flowchart illustrations, respectively, can be implemented by various means including hardware, software, firmware, and a combination thereof. For example, in one embodiment, each block of the block diagrams and flowchart illustrations, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and flowchart illustrations can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions may be loaded onto a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions which execute on the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus create means for implementing the functions specified in the flowchart block or blocks.
Operations in accordance with a variety of aspects of the disclosure is described above would not have to be performed in the precise order described. Rather, various steps can be handled in reverse order or simultaneously or not at all.
While several implementations have been described and illustrated herein, a variety of other means and/or structures for performing the function and/or obtaining the results and/or one or more of the advantages described herein may be utilized, and each of such variations and/or modifications is deemed to be within the scope of the implementations described herein. More generally, all parameters, dimensions, materials, and configurations described herein are meant to be exemplary and that the actual parameters, dimensions, materials, and/or configurations will depend upon the specific application or applications for which the teachings is/are used. Those skilled in the art will recognize, or be able to ascertain using no more than routine experimentation, many equivalents to the specific implementations described herein. It is, therefore, to be understood that the foregoing implementations are presented by way of example only and that, within the scope of the appended claims and equivalents thereto, implementations may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described and claimed. Implementations of the present disclosure are directed to each individual feature, system, article, material, kit, and/or method described herein. In addition, any combination of two or more such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and/or methods, if such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and/or methods are not mutually inconsistent, is included within the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

I/We Claims

An electrical socket (100) comprising:
a housing (102) defining six-pin holes arranged in opposing pairs, wherein each pair of said six-pin holes is configured to receive an electrical plug in any orientation relative to said housing;
an internal fuse (104) disposed within said housing (102), said internal fuse (104) configured to disconnect electrical connectivity within said electrical socket (100) upon detection of a short circuit condition;
a grounding mechanism (106) incorporated within said housing (102), said grounding mechanism (106) configured to facilitate electrical grounding of said electrical socket (100);
electrical isolation components (108) integrated within said housing (102), said electrical isolation components (108) configured to maintain electrical isolation between connections within said electrical socket (100) to prevent short circuits and minimize risks of electrical hazards; and
connection interfaces (110) on said housing (102), said connection interfaces (110) conforming to standard electrical socket dimensions and configured to facilitate installation of said electrical socket (100) into existing electrical systems without modifications to said systems.
The electrical socket (100) of claim 1, further comprising a locking mechanism mechanically engaged with said housing (102), said locking mechanism configured to secure an electrical plug within said six-pin holes in a fixed orientation.
The electrical socket (100) of claim 1, wherein said six-pin holes include mechanical guides to facilitate the insertion of electrical plugs into said six-pin holes.
The electrical socket (100) of claim 1, further comprising a magnetic alignment system configured to assist in the alignment and retention of electrical plugs within said six-pin holes.
The electrical socket (100) of claim 1, wherein said grounding mechanism (106) includes a mechanical switch to manually engage or disengage said grounding functionality.
The electrical socket (100) of claim 1, further comprising a ventilation system integrated into said housing (102), said ventilation system configured to promote air circulation within said electrical socket (100).
The electrical socket (100) of claim 1, further comprising a mechanical actuator configured to automatically eject an electrical plug from said six-pin holes upon certain conditions being met.
The electrical socket (100) of claim 1, further comprising a cable management system integrated into said housing (102), said cable management system configured to organize and secure cables connected to said electrical socket (100).
The electrical socket (100) of claim 1, further comprising a force distribution structure within said housing (102) configured to evenly distribute mechanical forces exerted on said socket (100) during plug insertion and removal.

CONVERTIBLE BI-DIRECTIONAL ELECTRIC SOCKET

Disclosed is an electrical socket comprising a housing defining six-pin holes arranged in opposing pairs, each pair configured to receive an electrical plug in any orientation relative to the housing. The socket includes an internal fuse disposed within the housing, configured to disconnect electrical connectivity upon detection of a short circuit condition. A grounding mechanism is incorporated within the housing, configured to facilitate electrical grounding. Electrical isolation components integrated within the housing are configured to maintain electrical isolation between connections to prevent short circuits and minimize electrical hazards. Connection interfaces on the housing conform to standard electrical socket dimensions and are configured to facilitate installation into existing systems without modifications.
Fig. 1
, Claims:I/We Claims

An electrical socket (100) comprising:
a housing (102) defining six-pin holes arranged in opposing pairs, wherein each pair of said six-pin holes is configured to receive an electrical plug in any orientation relative to said housing;
an internal fuse (104) disposed within said housing (102), said internal fuse (104) configured to disconnect electrical connectivity within said electrical socket (100) upon detection of a short circuit condition;
a grounding mechanism (106) incorporated within said housing (102), said grounding mechanism (106) configured to facilitate electrical grounding of said electrical socket (100);
electrical isolation components (108) integrated within said housing (102), said electrical isolation components (108) configured to maintain electrical isolation between connections within said electrical socket (100) to prevent short circuits and minimize risks of electrical hazards; and
connection interfaces (110) on said housing (102), said connection interfaces (110) conforming to standard electrical socket dimensions and configured to facilitate installation of said electrical socket (100) into existing electrical systems without modifications to said systems.
The electrical socket (100) of claim 1, further comprising a locking mechanism mechanically engaged with said housing (102), said locking mechanism configured to secure an electrical plug within said six-pin holes in a fixed orientation.
The electrical socket (100) of claim 1, wherein said six-pin holes include mechanical guides to facilitate the insertion of electrical plugs into said six-pin holes.
The electrical socket (100) of claim 1, further comprising a magnetic alignment system configured to assist in the alignment and retention of electrical plugs within said six-pin holes.
The electrical socket (100) of claim 1, wherein said grounding mechanism (106) includes a mechanical switch to manually engage or disengage said grounding functionality.
The electrical socket (100) of claim 1, further comprising a ventilation system integrated into said housing (102), said ventilation system configured to promote air circulation within said electrical socket (100).
The electrical socket (100) of claim 1, further comprising a mechanical actuator configured to automatically eject an electrical plug from said six-pin holes upon certain conditions being met.
The electrical socket (100) of claim 1, further comprising a cable management system integrated into said housing (102), said cable management system configured to organize and secure cables connected to said electrical socket (100).
The electrical socket (100) of claim 1, further comprising a force distribution structure within said housing (102) configured to evenly distribute mechanical forces exerted on said socket (100) during plug insertion and removal.

CONVERTIBLE BI-DIRECTIONAL ELECTRIC SOCKET