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Title:
POWERPOINT INTERFACE
Document Type and Number:
WIPO Patent Application WO/2019/218021
Kind Code:
A1
Abstract:
The present invention relates to an interface for an electrical power outlet, the electrical power outlet being mounted on a wall and comprising a casing with at least one wall socket; the interface comprising a housing to encase the electrical power outlet casing, the housing having an opening to receive the casing, and wherein said opening is able to at least fit around the periphery of the casing; a plug for insertion into the wall socket of the electrical power outlet; the plug being electrically connected to a plurality of housing sockets on the housing.

Inventors:
PARRY DANIEL (AU)
Application Number:
PCT/AU2019/050468
Publication Date:
November 21, 2019
Filing Date:
May 16, 2019
Export Citation:
Click for automatic bibliography generation   Help
Assignee:
DANTON ENTPR AUSTRALIA PTY LTD (AU)
International Classes:
H01R25/00; H01R13/10; H01R13/72; H01R13/73; H01R24/68; H01R33/92
Foreign References:
GB2374211A2002-10-09
AU2002018032A12002-09-12
US7756268B22010-07-13
US5094630A1992-03-10
Attorney, Agent or Firm:
WATERMARK INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY PTY LTD (AU)
Download PDF:
Claims:
CLAIMS:

1. An interface for an electrical power outlet, said electrical power outlet being mounted on a wall and comprising a casing with at least one wall socket; said interface comprising:

a housing to encase said electrical power outlet casing, said housing having an opening to receive said casing, and wherein said opening is able to at least fit around the periphery of said casing;

a plug for insertion into said wall socket of said electrical power outlet; said plug being electrically connected to a plurality of housing sockets on said housing.

2. An interface as claimed in claim 1 , wherein said plug includes a flexible cord.

3. An interface as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein said housing includes a mounting block including said opening to fit about said power outlet, said mounting block including first connectors to attach said mounting block to the wall; and

a main body including said plug and said plurality of housing sockets, said main body including second connectors to attach said main body to said mounting block.

4. An interface as claimed in claim 3, wherein said first and second connectors comprise at least one adhesive pad and/or at least one screw.

5. An interface as claimed in any preceding claim, further comprising at least one switch to electrically connect or isolate said housing sockets from said plug.

6. An interface as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein said plug is a side entry plug.

7. An interface as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein said plug is an upright side entry plug.

8. An interface as claimed in any preceding claim, further comprising at least one USB connector electrically connected to said plug via a USB power supply, said USB power supply converting mains power to a suitable power for said USB connector.

9. An interface as claimed in any preceding claim, further comprising a cover plate to fit over said housing.

10. An interface for an electrical power outlet, said electrical power outlet being mounted on a wall and comprising a casing with at least one wall socket; said interface comprising:

a housing to encase said electrical power outlet casing, said housing having an opening to receive said casing, and wherein said opening is able to at least fit around the periphery of said casing;

a plug for insertion into said wall socket of said electrical power outlet;

said plug having a flexible cord and being electrically connected to a plurality of housing sockets on said housing.

1 1. An interface for an electrical power outlet, said electrical power outlet being mounted on a wall and comprising a casing with at least one wall socket; said interface comprising:

a mounting block having an opening to receive said casing, wherein said opening is able to at least fit around the periphery of said casing, said mounting block including first connectors to attach said mounting block to the wall;

a body comprising a plug for insertion into said wall socket of said electrical power outlet, and a plurality of interface sockets, said plug having a flexible cord and being electrically connected to said plurality of interface sockets, and wherein said body further comprises second connectors to attach said body to said mounting block.

12. An interface as claimed in claim 2, wherein said flexible cord is less than 0.3m in length.

13. An interface as claimed in claim 2, wherein said flexible cord is about 155.80mm in length,

Description:
POWERPOINT INTERFACE

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001 ] The present invention relates to an interface for a power point, which increases the number of power outlets without the need for qualified electricians, and may also provide additional functionality such as USB outlets.

BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

[0002] The increased demand for electronic devices that require mains charging for either operation or recharging has placed an increased demand for power outlets. In many older buildings the number of power points can be limited. Even in newer buildings the occupier can find that the number of power points is not sufficient or at least not sufficient in a location convenient to the user.

[0003] For example, in the kitchen of existing or newly built houses, there are usually only one or two power points installed as standard. However, the kitchen is one of the highest demanding areas for power points with toasters, kettles, microwaves, blenders and charging USB devices such as mobile phones and speakers etc. Further the kitchen, and also the bathroom do not suit the use of conventional power boards for safety reasons, their size, untidiness and appearance.

[0004] In another example, it may be desired by a home owner to set up an office or home business in a spare bedroom. This may necessitate a workstation requiring multiple power points - PC, printer, light, chargers etc. However, it is more likely that the spare bedroom would only have a single or double power outlet.

[0005] Power boards, double adaptors and/or extension cords could be used by the user to provide sufficient access to power. However, these can look unsightly and present a tripping hazard to the user.

[0006] In both examples to address the shortage of power outlets the user would need to engage an electrician to convert an existing single or double power point into a double or quadruple power point. This incurs the cost of the electrician, and arranging for the electrician to attend the premises. Further if USB charge points are required on the power point the expense will be even greater [0007] In addition, if the issue relates to a rental unit the tenants may not be authorised to engage an electrician to make such changes. A landlord may for example decide that they do not want additional outlets installed.

[0008] There is thus a need for an alternative to provide access to power outlets without the need to engage qualified electricians.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0009] In a broad form, there is provided an interface that connects to an existing power outlet so as to provide additional power outlets for use.

[00010] In a first aspect, there is provided an interface for an electrical power outlet, the electrical power outlet being mounted on a wall and comprising a casing with at least one wall socket; the interface comprising:

a housing to encase the electrical power outlet casing, the housing having an opening to receive the casing, and wherein the opening is able to at least fit around the periphery of the casing;

a plug for insertion into the wall socket of the electrical power outlet;

the plug being electrically connected to a plurality of housing sockets on the housing.

[0001 1 ] Conveniently, in the preferred arrangement the plug includes a flexible cord for ease of installation, and to accommodate both single and double power points across a broad range of models and designs.

[00012] In some embodiments the housing includes a mounting block including the opening to fit about the power outlet, the mounting block including first connectors to attach the mounting block to the wall; and

a main body including the plug and the plurality of housing sockets, the main body including second connectors to attach the main body to the mounting block.

[00013] The first and second connectors could be at least one adhesive pad and/or at least one screw.

[00014] The preferred embodiment further comprises at least one switch to electrically connect or isolate the housing sockets from the plug.

[00015] For compact design the plug is an upright side entry plug, although a standard plug can be used. [00016] In further embodiments the interface further comprises at least one USB connector electrically connected to the plug via a USB power supply, the USB power supply converting mains power to a suitable power for the USB connector.

[00017] A cover plate to fit over the housing may also be provided in some embodiments for improved aesthetics or to allow graphics or branding to be applied.

[00018] In a second aspect the present invention provides an interface for an electrical power outlet, the electrical power outlet being mounted on a wall and comprising a casing with at least one wall socket; the interface comprising:

a housing to encase the electrical power outlet casing, the housing having an opening to receive the casing, and wherein the opening is able to at least fit around the periphery of the casing;

a plug for insertion into the wall socket of the electrical power outlet;

the plug having a flexible cord and being electrically connected to a plurality of housing sockets on the housing.

[00019] In a further aspect the present invention provides an interface for an electrical power outlet, the electrical power outlet being mounted on a wall and comprising a casing with at least one wall socket; the interface comprising:

a mounting block having an opening to receive the casing, wherein the opening is able to at least fit around the periphery of the casing, the mounting block including first connectors to attach the mounting block to the wall;

a body comprising a plug for insertion into the wall socket of the electrical power outlet, and a plurality of interface sockets, the plug having a flexible cord and being electrically connected to the plurality of interface sockets, and wherein the body further comprises second connectors to attach the body to the mounting block.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[00020] An illustrative embodiment of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying figures. Further features and advantages of the invention will also become apparent from the accompanying description.

[00021 ] Figure 1 shows a first embodiment of the present invention.

[00022] Figure 2 shows a rear view of the embodiment of Fig 1 . [00023] Figure 3 demonstrates fixing a mounting block about an existing power point.

[00024] Figure 4 shows a mounting block in position.

[00025] Figure 5 demonstrates connecting the interface section.

[00026] Figure 5A shows an example plug for use in the present invention.

[00027] Figure 6 demonstrates fixing an interface section.

[00028] Figure 7 demonstrates attaching a cover plate.

[00029] Figures 8a to 8i show other possible arrangements.

[00030] Figure 9 shows a possible wiring diagram of one arrangement of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[00031 ] The following description is presented to enable any person skilled in the art to make and use the invention, and is provided in the context of a particular application and its requirements. Various modifications to the disclosed embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments and applications without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Thus, the present invention is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and features disclosed herein.

[00032] The present embodiment provides an interface that is able to effectively convert a single or double power point into a triple, quad or greater power point. In addition, in the preferred arrangement USB chargers and surge protection can also be provided. As the original power point in the premises is not altered, and there is no need to access the electrical wiring in the premises, there is no need for a qualified electrician to be engaged. Rather the user is able to install the interface.

[00033] Fig 1 shows one embodiment of the interface of the present invention. It includes four type I 240 volt power outlets 1 , this style of power outlet are mainly used in Australia, New Zealand, China & Argentina, and four associated switches 2 for each type I 240 volt power outlet 1 . It will be appreciated that in some embodiments it may be elected not to include any switch but rather have the outlets live, or a single switch to control all of the power points. It is also possible that an embodiment may provide more or less power outlets. While reference is made to a type I 240 volt power outlet, it will be appreciated that this will vary depending on jurisdiction and/or application. For example, a type A or type B 120 volt power outlet would be used in the USA, Canada, Mexico & Japan. In other arrangements depending on jurisdiction and/or application power outlet types C, D, E, F, G, H, J, K, L, M, N and O could be used!

[00034] The embodiment of Fig 1 also includes two USB charging ports 3. Again it will be appreciated that some embodiments may include more USB charging ports, or in some cases no USB ports. Some possible embodiments are shown in Figs 8a to 8i.

[00035] In the preferred arrangement, the embodiment of Fig 1 includes three main sections:

a mounting block 4

an interface 5; and

a cover plate 6.

[00036] The mounting block 4 is conveniently rectangular in shape. This is in keeping with the conventional shape of power outlets installed by electricians. If desired the mounting block (and interface and cover plate) could be square shaped which could accommodate four (or more) power outlets arranged in a grid (see Fig 8d for example) as opposed to a line as shown in Fig 1 . Similarly, other shapes could be adopted to suit an application.

[00037] The mounting block 4 is the section that attaches or fixes the device to the wall or surface. It includes an opening 7 which is capable of fitting about an existing power point 8 installed by an electrician on a wall. The opening 7 may be larger than the size of the existing power point 8 to provide some flexibility in locating the mounting block 4 on the wall.

[00038] In some arrangements it may be convenient to also include a centre marking 16 on the mounting block 4. The centre marking 16 may make installation of the power point interface simpler for uses by providing a guide point during installation. That is, the user may be able to align the mounting block 4 with the power point by reference to the centre marking 16.

[00039] The mounting block 4 may be fixed to a wall through the use of wall screws 9 fitted through screw holes 10. Alternatively, one or more double sided adhesive pads 1 1 may be used to attach the mounting block 4 to the wall or existing power point. The adhesive pads 1 1 could potentially be similar to double sided adhesive pads produced by 3M and made available at various hardware stores. Ideally, the adhesive pads will have a strength rating 10x greater than the push pull usage force requirements of the interface to ensure a long lasting adhesion. Further, the adhesive pad would ideally be rated to accommodate all relevant mounting surfaces, Plaster, Brick, Glass, Tile, Timber, Steel, Painted surfaces etc.

[00040] The use of the adhesive pad may be particularly suitable for use in rental properties, or on surfaces that the user does not wish to drill such as mirrored or tiled surfaces for example. In some applications the user may elect to fix the mounting block 4 with both screws 9 and adhesive pads 1 1 .

[00041 ] In a further alternative adhesive 3M® Dual Lock low profile reclosable fasteners, or Velcro® brand hook and loo fasteners could be used. This style of fastener has the added advantage of allowing the user to more easily detach and reattach the power point interface if desired. The 3M® low profile option is preferred as resulting in the power point interface extending from the wall less than non low profile options.

[00042] The fitting of the mounting block 4 around the existing power point 8 can be seen in Fig 4. In this case one side edge of the opening 7 is shown abutting the side of the power point 8 with excess opening to the right of the power point 8. If desired the mounting block 4 could have been located with the power point 8 centred in the opening 7 or at any other part of the opening 7.

[00043] The opening 7 could have been of a similar size to that of the power point 8, however, providing a larger opening provides the user with latitude as to the actual placement of the mounting block 4, and hence interface.

[00044] Once the mounting block 4 is attached to the wall, the interface 5 is attached. The interface 5 includes a 240 volt side entry plug 12, which is inserted in the (or one of the) existing power points 8. This enables power to be provided to the interface 5.

[00045] The preferred arrangement uses an upright side entry plug 12. The plug is designed to plug in vertically, with its supply cable exiting the plug housing straight-up on the top side. The use of such a plug assists in minimising the profile of the powerpoint interface. While other less compact plugs can also be used, the overall profile of the interface would be higher. In an alternative arrangement, the design could be flipped horizontally and or vertically such that the supply lead would exit the plug housing on the new respective top or bottom right or left side, and entering the interface housing on its new respective top or bottom right or left side.

[00046] In current prototypes the plug 12 is attached to a 155.80mm long cord 1 1 . The length of the cord can vary depending on the implementation. Some length of cord is preferred to provide some flexibility and for ease of installation.

[00047] In the preferred arrangement, the overall length of the cord will be less than 0.3m, and ideally around 155.80mm, with a preferred external exposed length of 100mm. This exposed length of 100mm can be measured from where the cable exits the housing of the interface until it enters the plug. A significance of this length is that prior to the present invention it was not possible to have a flexible supply cord of less than 0.9m in Australia or New Zealand as stated in Standards Australia & Standards New Zealand AS/NZS 3105:2014 Approval and test specification - Electrical portable outlet devices.

[00048] In an alternative effectively no cord, or at least a cord that is not movable could be provided. In such cases the user would simply need to align the plug 12 with the wall socket. In the opposite alternative a longer cord could be provided for ease of installation, however the cord also needs to reside inside of the interface when installed, in the preferred arrangement it does this in the channel recess 17. Having a longer cord will require a larger interface with a larger channel recess 17.

[00049] A 240 volt upright side entry plug 12 is preferred as it enables the overall profile of the unit to be minimised. Ideally the upright side entry plug 12 will have a depth of about 20.6mm and a diameter of about 42 mm. An example of a suitable upright side entry plug can be seen in Fig 5A. Larger (or smaller) plugs could be used which would allow the profile of the interface to be changed accordingly. That is, if a smaller upright or regular side entry plug is used the depth of the interface could be reduced. Accordingly, a standard inline 240 volt plug could be used but this would result in the depth of the unit being increased to accommodate the size of the standard inline 240 volt plug.

[00050] In the preferred arrangement, the cord resides in a channel recess 17. In other arrangements if the design was flipped horizontally and or vertically with the supply lead exiting the plug housing on the new respective top or bottom right or left side, entering the interface housing on its new respective top or bottom right or left side, then the channel recess 17 would also be moved to the same position to accommodate the cord.

[00051 ] The upright side-entry plug 12 is also preferred as its design enables easy alignment with the desired power point and encourages the positioning of its 240 volt supply cable into the channel recess 17.

[00052] The interface 5 is then attached to the mounting block 4. Conveniently this may be by way of screws 13 which can be received in the mounting block 4. Alternatively adhesive may be used, or the design could be such that the interface clips into the mounting block 4.

[00053] The interface 5 and mounting block 4 could be formed as a single unit. However, it is envisaged that for most users it will be simpler to fix the mounting block 4 without the interface 5. It is considered that having the mounting block and the interface as two separate pieces could provide two benefits:

1 ) A separate mounting block allows the user to conveniently mount the mounting block to the wall around the existing power point easily attaining the exact position favoured. The separation also makes it easier to achieve a strong mounting bond to the wall surface.

2) The interface can be removed and replaced if it is faulty or damaged without having to remove the mounting block, eliminating the need to break the bond of the adhesives fixture to the wall (if used). This also allows the interface to be removed if the existing power point needs to be changed and or worked on by a licenced electrician.

[00054] However, if the two parts were formed as a single unit then it is expected that the user would attach the adhesive pads to either the wall or mounting block, insert the upright side entry plug 12, and then press the unit about the power point 8.

[00055] For improved aesthetic a cover plate 6 may then be fitted about the interface 5. For more cost orientated applications, or where appearance is not a prime concern, the cover plate may be omitted. Alternatively the cover plate and interface may be integrated. This could particularly be the case if the interface snap fits to the mounting block, or adhesive is combined with a single complete unit installed as a single item. [00056] The interface may be constructed from plastic such as for example ABS, PC/ABS, PC/ASA, PC, or SAN, and made through plastic injection moulding techniques.

[00057] Referring to Fig 9, one possible wiring diagram of the invention is shown. The image of Fig 9 shows a standard inline plug 12, although as noted above an upright side entry plug is preferred due to its smaller size and its angle of connection to the cable. Functionally however in an electrical sense they are the same. The plug 12 is inserted to a power point so as to provide power to the interface. The plug 12 of Fig 9 also shows a three pin arrangement including an active or live pin L, a neutral pin N, and an earth pin E.

[00058] In some alternatives, the plug could be a two pin plug without the earth pin. It will be appreciated that the plug should be suitable for the location within which it is intended to be used.

[00059] The live, neutral and earth pins are wired in parallel to each of the sockets 1 on the interface. Currently the preferred arrangement is for each socket to use a Double Pole On-Off Latching Switch, such as a Round Rocker Switch RR Series from Cherry Switches/ZF Electronics.

[00060] Optionally the live wire passes through a surge or circuit breaker 14 before reaching the switches 2. This is to provide some protection to any devices plugged into the interface. Currently the preferred circuit breaker is the W57 series Compact, Push To Reset Only P&B Thermal Circuit Breaker from TE Connectivity.

[00061 ] The purpose of the circuit breaker module on the power board is to protect the household socket from a current overload (Cumulative draw greater than 10A). The surge protection aspect of the preferred embodiment endeavours to protect devices connected to the interface from an overvoltage event such as that from a lightning strike or temporary fault on the grid. The performance characteristics of the surge protector may be defined by the components selected on the interface. In the preferred arrangement, a 125J surge protection element is between the Line and Neutral. Other arrangements could include two extra surge protectors between the line-earth and neutral-earth. In a further alternative, a higher energy rated surge protector could be placed between the Line-Neutral, as this is likely where any overvoltage fault will occur, and a low energy rated surge protector placed between the other two lines to save on cost. [00062] For those embodiments that do not include switches, then the wiring would lead from the plug 12 to the sockets 1 (via a surge or circuit breaker 14 if included).

[00063] If the interface includes USB ports 3, then the wiring should also pass to a power supply board 15 capable of converting the mains power to a 5V power supply suitable for USB charging. Again, the power supply board 15 should be wired in parallel with switches 2. Power from the power supply board 15 is then supplied to the USB board 3.

[00064] An advantage of the present invention is that it provides an interface that is able to encase or completely surround existing power points. That is, with preferred embodiments, once installed the interface of the present invention will completely hide the existing power point, and the existing power points will not be visible to users or other persons. This allows the appearance of a traditionally installed power point but with the functionality of additional outlets, without the detracting appearance of double adaptors and/or power boards. Further the aesthetic appearance can be achieved and installed by non-qualified persons.

[00065] The interface converts any existing single or double power point into a modern stylish quad power point with two high-speed USB chargers and surge protector, and can be installed without the assistance of a registered electrician and with little to no handyman skills. If desired or required, the interface could be mounted by using wall plugs and screws. Aesthetically the interface can look like a high quality fixture installed by an electrician.

[00066] The interface can also be removed and relocated to another position or to another location altogether (such as a new home in the case of a renter), again without needing the services of a qualified electrician.

[00067] The interface should be safer for use in areas such as the kitchen and bathroom in comparison to regular power boards due to its ability to be mounted on the wall, thus reducing the chance of falling or tangling. The interface also reduces the risk that traditional power boards could accidentally fall, slide or be placed by the user in dangerous electrical restricted areas - such as proximity to water i.e. sinks, baths, and wet-areas. Mounting of the interface about a power point keeps it within the location of the original power point and helps protect its sockets from foreign objects such as dust and water entering. [00068] It will be appreciated that while the figures have shown power points suitable for use in Australia, points suitable for any geographic region or locale could be adopted.

[00069] The present invention is safer for use in areas such as the kitchen and bathroom due to its ability to be mounted on the wall reducing its chance of falling / tangling / entering electrical restricted areas, such as proximity to water i.e. sinks, baths, wet-areas. Its wall mounting also helps protect its sockets from foreign objects such as dust and water entering and its finished appearance to boast resembles that of an electrically installed modern stylish power point.

[00070] Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, the appearance of the phrases“in one embodiment” or“in an embodiment” in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment.

[00071 ] Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more combinations. It will be appreciated that persons skilled in the art could implement the present invention in different ways to the one described above, and variations may be produced without departing from its spirit and scope.

[00072] Any discussion of documents, devices, acts or knowledge in this specification is included to explain the context of the invention. It should not be taken as an admission that any of the material forms part of the prior art base or the common general knowledge in the relevant art, in any country, on or before the filing date of the patent application to which the present specification pertains.