GB2615987A - A multipurpose pop-up electrical connector socket assembly - Google Patents

A multipurpose pop-up electrical connector socket assembly Download PDF

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Publication number
GB2615987A
GB2615987A GB2114368.0A GB202114368A GB2615987A GB 2615987 A GB2615987 A GB 2615987A GB 202114368 A GB202114368 A GB 202114368A GB 2615987 A GB2615987 A GB 2615987A
Authority
GB
United Kingdom
Prior art keywords
electrical connector
connector socket
pop
carriage
multipurpose
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Pending
Application number
GB2114368.0A
Other versions
GB202114368D0 (en
Inventor
Hang Kan Chi
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Luen Yick Electrical Mfg Co Ltd
Original Assignee
Luen Yick Electrical Mfg Co Ltd
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Luen Yick Electrical Mfg Co Ltd filed Critical Luen Yick Electrical Mfg Co Ltd
Priority to GB2114368.0A priority Critical patent/GB2615987A/en
Publication of GB202114368D0 publication Critical patent/GB202114368D0/en
Publication of GB2615987A publication Critical patent/GB2615987A/en
Pending legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47B—TABLES; DESKS; OFFICE FURNITURE; CABINETS; DRAWERS; GENERAL DETAILS OF FURNITURE
    • A47B21/00—Tables or desks for office equipment, e.g. typewriters, keyboards
    • A47B21/06—Tables or desks for office equipment, e.g. typewriters, keyboards characterised by means for holding, fastening or concealing cables
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R13/00—Details of coupling devices of the kinds covered by groups H01R12/70 or H01R24/00 - H01R33/00
    • H01R13/44—Means for preventing access to live contacts
    • H01R13/447—Shutter or cover plate
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47B—TABLES; DESKS; OFFICE FURNITURE; CABINETS; DRAWERS; GENERAL DETAILS OF FURNITURE
    • A47B21/00—Tables or desks for office equipment, e.g. typewriters, keyboards
    • A47B21/06—Tables or desks for office equipment, e.g. typewriters, keyboards characterised by means for holding, fastening or concealing cables
    • A47B2021/066—Tables or desks for office equipment, e.g. typewriters, keyboards characterised by means for holding, fastening or concealing cables with power or communication connection interface
    • A47B2021/068—Tables or desks for office equipment, e.g. typewriters, keyboards characterised by means for holding, fastening or concealing cables with power or communication connection interface with pop-up power outlet
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47B—TABLES; DESKS; OFFICE FURNITURE; CABINETS; DRAWERS; GENERAL DETAILS OF FURNITURE
    • A47B2200/00—General construction of tables or desks
    • A47B2200/008—Tables or desks having means for applying electronic or electric devices
    • A47B2200/0082—Cable inlet in worktop or desk, e.g. grommet
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R25/00—Coupling parts adapted for simultaneous co-operation with two or more identical counterparts, e.g. for distributing energy to two or more circuits
    • H01R25/006—Coupling parts adapted for simultaneous co-operation with two or more identical counterparts, e.g. for distributing energy to two or more circuits the coupling part being secured to apparatus or structure, e.g. duplex wall receptacle

Landscapes

  • Details Of Connecting Devices For Male And Female Coupling (AREA)
  • Connector Housings Or Holding Contact Members (AREA)

Abstract

A pop-up electrical connector socket assembly 10 comprising a tubular receptacle 11 with an open top, the tubular receptacle configured for mounting in a work-surface, at least one opening provided in the tubular receptacle to receive an electrical connection cable 13 (Figure 6); a carriage 14 mounted within the tubular receptacle and mounting; a top plate 15 for closing the open top of the receptacle, the top plate associated with a wireless electrical charging system; at least one primary electrical connector socket of a first type 16 (Figure 5); at least one secondary electrical connector socket of a second type 17, 18 (Figure 6) circumferentially offset from the at least one primary electrical connector socket, the carriage configured for movement between a closed position in which the top plate closes the open top of the receptacle and an open position in which access to electrical connector sockets is allowed, a biasing spring member 19 (Figure 8) to bias the carriage into the open position; and a catch mechanism to releasably latch the carriage in the closed position.

Description

A MULTIPURPOSE POP-UP ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR SOCKET
ASSEMBLY
Technical Field of the Invention
The present invention relates generally to the field of electrical connector sockets. In particular, but not exclusively, the invention concerns a multipurpose pop-up electrical connector socket assembly that can be located in a standard 801nm diameter opening and with a lower profile than conventional pop-up electrical connector sockets.
Background to the Invention
Multipurpose pop-up electrical connector socket assemblies are available conventionally. A multipurpose pop-up electrical connector socket assembly will normally include at least one electrical connection socket corresponding to an AC electric plug connector (a primary electrical connection socket), and one or more secondary electrical connector sockets such as US B-A, USB-C, mini-USB, micro-USB, lightning connector® and the like. A part of the pop-up electrical connector socket structure may additionally be provided with a wireless charging portion, usually a capacitive wireless charger.
Conventional multipurpose pop-up electrical connector socket assemblies are manufactured to fit into an opening in a work surface, typically a table or desk. The 20 opening may be of any size, but the industry standard has been accepted as 80mm in Internal diameter.
The multipurpose pop-up electrical connector socket assemblies conventionally available have the primary AC sockets located circumferentially, but the other secondary sockets arranged vertically below but typically above the AC sockets or located circumferentially relative to the upper disk of the assembly which may include the wireless charger.
Locating the secondary connection socket vertically above or below the primary AC socket located circumferentially relative to the upper disk of the assembly means that the assembly is not only taller than it could be (which can lead to issues with operation of the pop-up portion) but also a less efficient layout of the electrical energy supply circuits located within the assembly.
Embodiments of the invention seek to at least partially overcome or ameliorate any one or more of the abovementioned disadvantages or provide the consumer with a useful or commercial choice.
Summary of the Invention
According to a firs( aspect of the invention there is provided a multipurpose pop-up electrical connector socket assembly comprising a. a tubular receptacle with an open top, the tubular receptacle configured for mounting in a work-surface, at least one opening provided in the tubular receptacle to receive an electrical connection cable; b. a carriage mounted within the tubular receptacle and mounting: i. a top plate dimensioned for closing the open top of the receptacle, the top plate associated with a wireless electrical charging system to charge an item placed onto the top plate; ii. at least one primary electrical connector socket of a first type; iii. at least one secondary electrical connector socket of a second type circumferentially offset from the at least one primary electrical connector socket; and iv. at least one electric circuit connecting the electrical connection cable to the at least one primary electrical connector socket and the at least one secondary electrical connector socket; the carriage configured for movement between a closed position in which the top plate closes the open top of the receptacle and an open position in which a portion of the carriage is located above the open top of the receptacle allowing access to the at least one primary electrical connector socket and the at least one secondary electrical connector socket; c. a biasing member or structure to bias the carriage into the open position; and d. a catch mechanism to releasably latch the carriage in the closed condition against a biasing force exerted by the biasing member or structure.
Providing a multipurpose pop-up electrical connector socket assembly with these features, particularly at least one secondary electrical connector socket of a second type circumferentially offset from the at least one primary electrical connector socket on the carriage, allows a lower profile socket assembly to be provided.
The connector socket of the invention will preferably fit to a worksurface or a desktop for example. In use, the pop-up electrical connector socket will normally be fitted into an opening formed through the worksurface or desktop. In the closed condition, an upper surface of the top plate will normally be substantially coplanar with the upper surface of the worksurface or desktop. In the open condition, the upper surface of the top plate will normally be located above the surface of the worksurface or desktop, with the primary and secondary electrical connector sockets accessible above the worksurface or desktop.
The pop-up electrical connector socket assembly will normally be biased into the open condition. In order to be closed, the carriage will normally be pushed downwardly and will normally be held in the closed condition by a catch or latch assembly or mechanism. Any type of biasing means can be used to bias the pop-up electrical connector socket assembly into the open condition. One simple biasing means is a coil spring although other biasing means could be used.
The catch or latch assembly or mechanism will normally be engaged and disengaged by pressing the carriage downwardly.
The socket assembly may include a bezel supporting the receptacle and adapted for locating in an opening in a surface. The bezel will normally engage the receptacle. The bezel may allow the receptacle to be mounted within the opening in the surface. The receptacle may be movable relative to the bezel, allowing the position of the receptacle, particularly the height of the receptacle to be adjusted relative to the surface.
hi an embodiment, the bezel may be internally threaded and an externally thread portion may be provided on an exterior surface of the receptacle. This will allow infinite adjustment of the height of the receptacle relative to the bezel.
Although it may have any cross sectional shape, the tubular receptacle will normally be substantially circular in cross sectional shape when viewed from above.
The tubular receptacle may be formed in a single piece but a multipicce construction could also be used.
As mentioned above, the tubular receptacle may be provided with a threaded portion. The threaded portion may be provided externally in order to engage with an internally threaded bezel for example.
The tubular receptacle may be provided as a top ring with a partially arcuate depending side wall portion extending downwardly therefrom and a bottom structure relative to which the biasing means is braced at a lower end. A second partially arcuate side wall portion may be releasably engageable with the other partially arcuate depending side wall and/or top ring in order to close the tubular receptacle.
An opening may be provided in a side wall of the tubular receptacle. In an embodiment, an elongate slot opening is provided. The slot opening may be oriented vertically. The slot opening may extend from a bottom edge of the tubular receptacle upward towards an upper end of the tubular receptacle. The slot opening may be closed at an upper end. The upper end may be closed below the top of the tubular receptacle.
In use, the slot opening may allow an electrical connection or power cable to extend into the tubular receptacle and move upwardly and downwardly as the carriage moves up and down.
The pop-up electrical connector socket assembly may include a carriage mounted within the tubular receptacle. The carriage may be a multi-component carriage. The carriage may be formed with a bottom cap, a top cap relative to which the top plate is provided and at least one side wall portion located between the bottom cap and top cap.
The at least one side wall portion preferably spaces the top cap from the bottom cap. Any number of side wall portions may be provided. In an embodiment, a single, partially arcuate side wall portion may be provided, forming a partially cylindrical sidewall portion.
The at least one side wall portion may be provided with a gap in the side wall. The gap will typically extend from the top of the side wall portion to the bottom of the side wall portion. The provision of the gap in a otherwise substantially continuous side wall portion may form a side wall portion having an open C-shape when viewed in plan with a pair of spaced apart free edges extending over the height of the side wall portion.
The primary socket may be located between the free edges. The provision of the primary socket in this position may close the side wall portion. The primary socket may be provided in a horizontal rather than a vertical configuration in order to provide clearance for the electrical connector cable connected to the plug which will normally be inserted into the primary socket. The primary socket may be mounted between the free edges of the side wall portion, a lower side of the top cap of the carriage and a base wall. The base wall may be provided above the bottom cap. This may define a volume between the base wall and an interior part of the bottom cap.
One or more openings may be provided in the side wall portion to allow insertion of a connector or plug to connect to the at least one secondary electrical connector socket. As mentioned, the provision of the openings in the side wall portion will preferably offset the at least one secondary electrical connector socket IS circumferentially from the at least one primary electrical connector socket which is preferably mounted between the preferred free ends of the side wall portion.
The at least one electric circuit will normally be mounted within the side wall portion, and/or in the volume between the base wall and the bottom cap. Normally, the mains power supply will enter the carriage through a side wall portion of the bottom cap and be connected to the at least one electric circuit. The base wall may provide an intermediate support for the mounting of the at least one electric circuit and/or additional support members or structures may be provided.
Electrical contacts for the primary socket are typically oriented towards the at least one primary electrical connector socket. Electrical contacts for the at least one secondary electrical connector socket are normally oriented toward the openings provided in the side wall portion which is circumferentially offset from the primary socket.
The at least one secondary electrical connector socket may be offset from the at least one primary electrical connector socket by approximately 90'.
The at least one secondary electrical connector socket may be mounted within the carriage relative to an internal wall or bracing. Any internal wall or bracing will normally be oriented at an angle to position the at least one secondary electrical connection socket circumferentially offset from the at least one primary electrical connection socket. A first internal wall or bracing may be provided for the mounting of the at least one primary electrical connection socket and a second internal wall or bracing provided for the mounting of the at least one secondary electrical connection socket. The first internal wall or bracing may be provided perpendicularly to the second internal wall or bracing within the carriage.
In an embodiment, the at least one electric circuit is located between the base wall and the lower end of the bottom cap and the electrical contacts for the at least one primary electrical connection socket and the at least one secondary electrical connection socket are provided above the base wall.
At least one secondary electrical connector socket is normally provided. In an IS embodiment, two or more secondary electrical connector sockets are provided. Where multiple secondary electrical connector sockets are provided, the secondary electrical sockets may be of the same type or of different types. Any combination of types of secondary electrical connector sockets may be provided. The secondary electrical connector sockets may be chosen from the group including a USB-A, a USB-C, a mini-USB, a micro-USB or other electrical connector sockets of the proprietary nature such as a Lightninem socket for example.
At least two secondary electrical connector sockets are provided in a preferred embodiment. The at least two secondary electrical connector sockets may be provided adjacent to one another, preferably positioned vertically, in a stacked configuration, one /5 above the other.
The top plate is typically located on the upper side of the top cap of the carriage. The top plate may be associated with a wireless charging system. Any type of wireless charging system may be used. An induction charging system may be preferred. The wireless charging system is preferably powered by the at least one electric circuit provided on the carriage stop.
As mentioned above, a mains power cable is preferably attached to the carriage and the at least one electric circuit in the carriage, through the bottom cap. The mains power cable will normally provide power to the at least one electric circuit.
In an embodiment, a scat for the biasing means may be provided in the bottom cap. Normally, the seat is provided formed into the underside of the bottom cap. The biasing means will be braced or positioned at a lower side, against a stop mounted relative to the tubular receptacle such that the carriage must be forced downwardly against the biasing force of the biasing means.
The catch mechanism will normally be provided between the carriage, typically the bottom cap and a portion of the tubular receptacle.
hi an embodiment, all of the electrical components of the pop-up electrical connector socket are provided relative to the carriage with the biasing means located between the lower end of the carriage and the bottom of the tubular receptacle and the mains power cable being connected through the preferred opening in the side wall of the tubular receptacle to connect to the bottom cap of the carriage.
Detailed Description of the Invention
In order that the invention may be more clearly understood one or more embodiments thereof will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, of which: Figure 1 is an isometric view of a pop-up electrical connector socket of an embodiment after installation, in the closed configuration.
Figure 2 is an isometric view of a pop-up electrical connector socket illustrated in Figure 1, in the open configuration.
Figure 3 is an isometric view of a pop-up electrical connector socket of an embodiment, in the closed configuration.
Figure 4 is an isometric view of the pop-up electrical connector socket illustrated in Figure 3, in the open configuration.
Figure 5 is front elevation view of the pop-up electrical connector socket illustrated in Figure 4.
Figure 6 is side elevation view of the pop-up electrical connector socket illustrated in Figure 4.
Figure 7 is rear elevation view of the pop-up electrical connector socket illustrated in Figure 4.
Figure 8 is section view of the pop-up electrical connector socket illustrated in Figure 5 along line A-A.
Figure 9 is an exploded view of an upper portion of the pop-up electrical connector socket illustrated in Figure 4.
Figure 10 is an exploded view of the pop-up electrical connector socket illustrated in Figure 4.
Figure 11 is a schematic circuit diagram of a pop-up electrical connector socket of an embodiment.
Figure 12 is a schematic circuit diagram of a pop-up electrical connector socket illustrated in Figure 10 showing relative to product position.
With reference to the accompanying figures, a multipurpose pop-up electrical connector socket assembly 10 is illustrated. The illustrated multipurpose pop-up electrical connector socket assembly fits into a standard 80mm opening.
The multipurpose pop-up electrical connector socket assembly 10 illustrated comprises a tubular receptacle 11 with an open top. The tubular receptacle 11 is configured for mounting in a work-surface (not shown). An elongate slot opening 12 is provided in the tubular receptacle 11 to receive an electrical connection cable 13.
The multipurpose pop-up electrical connector socket assembly 10 illustrated also comprises a carriage 14 mounted within the tubular receptacle 11. The carriage 14 is configured for movement between a closed position, shown in Figures 1 and 3, in which the top plate 15 of the carriage 14 closes the open top of the tubular receptacle 11 and an open position shown in Figures 2 and 4, in which a portion of the carriage 14 is located above the open top of the tubular receptacle 11 allowing access to the primary electrical connector socket 16 and the secondary electrical connector sockets (US B-A 17 and USB-C 18).
The multipurpose pop-up electrical connector socket assembly 10 illustrated also comprises a biasing spring 19 to bias the carriage 14 into the open position and a catch mechanism (not shown) to releasably latch the carriage 14 in the closed condition against the biasing force exerted by the biasing spring 19.
As shown in Figures 1 to 4 in particular, the pop-up electrical connector socket assembly 10 will normally be fitted into an opening formed through the worksurface or desktop (not shown). In the closed condition, an upper surface of the top plate 15 will normally be substantially coplanar with the upper surface of the worksurface or desktop. In the open condition, the upper surface of the top plate 15 will normally be located above the surface of the worksurface or desktop, with the primary 16 and secondary electrical connector sockets 17, 18 accessible above the worksurface or desktop.
The illustrated pop-up electrical connector socket assembly 10 is biased into the open condition. In order to be dosed, the carriage 14 will normally be pushed downwardly by a user and will normally be held in the closed condition by a catch or latch assembly or mechanism. In the illustrated assembly, the biasing means is a coil spring 19 although other biasing means could be used.
The catch or latch assembly or mechanism will normally be engaged and disengaged by pressing the carriage downwardly.
The illustrated socket assembly 10 includes a bezel 20 supporting the receptacle 11 and adapted for locating in the opening in the surface. The bezel 20 will normally engage the receptacle 11 to allow the receptacle 11 to be mounted within the opening in the surface. The receptacle 11 may be movable relative to the bezel 20, allowing the position of the receptacle 11, particularly the height of the receptacle 11 to be adjusted relative to the surface.
As shown, the bezel 20 may be internally threaded and an externally threaded portion 21 may be provided on an exterior surface of the receptacle 11. This will allow infinite adjustment of die height of the receptacle 11 relative to the bezel 20.
Although it may have any cross-sectional shape, the tubular receptacle 11 is normally substantially circular in cross sectional shape when viewed from above.
As best illustrated in Figure 10, the tubular receptacle 11 of the assembly 10 illustrated is provided in two parts, the first part being a top ring 22 with a partially arcuate depending side wall portion 23 extending downwardly therefrom and a bottom structure (view obstructed) relative to which the biasing spring 19 is braced at a lower end. A second partially arcuate side wall portion 24 is releasably engageable with the other partially arcuate depending side wall 23 and/or top ring 22 in order to close the tubular receptacle 11.
An elongate slot opening is provided in the tubular receptacle 11. The slot opening 12 is oriented vertically. As shown in Figure 7, the slot opening 12 extends from a bottom edge of the tubular receptacle 11 upward towards an upper end of the tubular receptacle 11. The slot opening 12 is closed at an upper end, below the top of the tubular receptacle 11. In use, the slot opening 12 allows an electrical connection cable 13 to extend into the tubular receptacle 11 to the carriage 14 and move upwardly and downwardly as the carriage 14 moves up and down.
The carriage 14 includes a top plate 15 dimensioned for closing the open top of the receptacle 11. The top plate 15 is associated with a wireless electrical charging system to charge an item placed onto the top plate 15.
The carriage 14 of the illustrated assembly is a multi-component carriage. The carriage 14 is formed with a bottom cap 25, a top cap 26, the upper surface of which forms the top plate l5 is provided and a side wall portion 27 located between the bottom cap 25 and top cap 26.
The side wall portion 27 spaces the top cap 26 from the bottom cap 25. In the illustrated assembly, a single, partially arcuate side wall portion 27 is provided, forming a partially cylindrical sidewall portion 27, best illustrated in Figure 9.
The side wall portion 27 has a gap extending from the top of the side wall portion 27 to the bottom of the side wall portion 27. The provision of the gap in an otherwise substantially continuous side wall portion 27 forms a side wall portion 27 with an open C-shape when viewed in plan, with a pair of spaced apart free edges 28 extending over the height of the side wall portion 27.
The primary socket 16 is located between the free edges 28. The provision of the primary socket 16 in this position closes the gap in the side wall portion 27. The primary socket 16 is provided in a horizontal configuration as illustrated in Figure 9 in order to provide clearance for the electrical connector cable connected to the plug which will normally be inserted into the primary socket 16, to extend sideways, allowing a further reduction in height of the socket assembly 10. In the illustrated assembly, the primary socket 16 is provided with thinner side edges and is mounted in a corresponding channel formed relative to each of the free edges 28 of the side wall portion 27, a lower side of the top cap 26 of the carriage 14 and a base wall 29.
In the illustrated assembly, the base wall 29 is a part of an intennediate structure provided above the bottom cap 25. This defines a volume between the base wall 29 and an interior part of the bottom cap 25 as shown in Figure 10.
Openings are provided in the side wall portion 27 to allow insertion of a connector or plug to connect to the secondary electrical connector sockets. An opening 31 is provided for the USB-A 17 and a second opening 32 is provided for the USB-C 18. As mentioned, the provision of the openings 31, 32 in the side wall portion 27 offset the secondary electrical connector sockets 17, 18 circumferentially from the primary electrical connector socket 16 which is mounted between the free ends 28 of the side wall portion 27.
The at least one electric circuit will normally be mounted within the side wall portion 27, and/or in the volume between the base wall and the bottom cap. Normally, the mains power supply13 enters the carriage 14 through a side wall of the bottom cap 25 (as shown in Figure 8) and is connected to the at least one electric circuit. A PCB 33 is mounted relative to the base wall 29 and intermediate support 30 for the mounting parts of electric circuit and/or additional support members or structures may be provided.
Electrical contacts 34 for the primary socket 16 are typically oriented towards the primary electrical connector socket 16. The electrical circuit 35 for the secondary electrical connector sockets 17, 18 is normally oriented toward the openings 31, 32 provided in the side wall portion 27 which is circumferentially offset from the primary socket 16.
The secondary electrical connector sockets 17, 18 are mounted within the carriage 14 relative to an internal wall or bracing. Any internal wall bracing will normally be oriented at an angle to position the secondary electrical connection sockets 17, 18 circumferentially offset from the primary electrical connection socket 16. As illustrated in Figures 9 and 10, a first internal wall 36 is provided for the mounting of the primary electrical connection socket 16 and a second internal wall 37 is provided perpendicularly to the first internal wall 36, for the mounting of the secondary electrical connection sockets 17, 18. The first internal wall of this embodiment is a PCBA which provides the power for the wireless charger associated with the top cap and it is mounted on second internal wall 37.
As illustrated, the secondary electrical connector sockets are a USB-A and a IS USB-C, but other types including a USB, or other electrical connector sockets of the proprietary nature such as a Lightningmi socket for example, may be provided. More than two secondary electrical connector sockets can be provided.
The two secondary electrical connector sockets 17, 18 are provided adjacent to one another, positioned vertically, in a stacked configuration, one above the other.
As mentioned, the top plate 15 is typically located on the upper side of the top cap 26 of the carriage 14. The top plate 15 may be associated with a wireless charging system. In the illustrated assembly, an induction charging system including a wireless charging coil provided in the top cap 26 and a wireless charging circuit 36 in a lower part of the carriage 14 is provided, preferably mounted relative to the second internal wall 37.
As mentioned above, the mains power cable 13 is attached to the carriage 14 and the at least one electric circuit in the carriage 14, through the bottom cap 25. The mains power cable 13 will normally provide power to the at least one electric circuit.
hi an embodiment, a seat 39 for the biasing spring 19 is provided in the bottom cap 25. As illustrated in Figure 10, the seat 39 is formed into the underside of the bottom cap 25. The biasing spring 19 is braced or positioned at a lower side, against a 40 mounted relative to the tubular receptacle 11 such that the carriage 14 must be forced downwardly against the biasing force of the biasing spring 19.
The catch mechanism will normally be provided between the carriage 14, typically the bottom cap 25 and a portion of the tubular receptacle 11.
All of the electrical components of the pop-up electrical connector socket are provided relative to the carnage 14 with the biasing spring 19 located between the lower end of the carriage 14 and the bottom of the tubular receptacle 11 and the mains power cable 13 being connected through the opening in the side wall of the tubular receptacle 11 to connect to the bottom cap 25 of the carriage 14.
The one or more embodiments are described above by way of example only. Many variations are possible without departing from the scope of protection afforded by the appended claims.

Claims (20)

  1. CLAIMS1. A multipurpose pop-up electrical connector socket assembly comprising a. a tubular receptacle with an open top, the tubular receptacle configured for mounting in a work-surface, at least one opening provided in the tubular receptacle to receive an electrical connection cable; b. a carriage mounted within the tubular receptacle and mounting: i. a top plate dimensioned for closing the open top of the receptacle, the top plate associated with a wireless electrical charging system to charge an item placed onto the top plate; ii. at least one primary electrical connector socket of a first type; iii. at least one secondary electrical connector socket of a second type circumferentially offset from the at least one primary electrical connector socket; and iv. at least one electric circuit connecting the electrical connection cable to the at least one primary electrical connector socket and the at least one secondary electrical connector socket; the carriage configured for movement between a closed position in which the top plate closes the open top of the receptacle and an open position in which a portion of the carriage is located above the open top of the receptacle allowing access to the at least one primary electrical connector socket and the at least one secondary electrical connector socket; c. a biasing member or structure to bias the carriage into the open position; and d. a catch mechanism to releasably latch the carriage in the closed condition against a biasing force exerted by the biasing member or structure.
  2. 2. A multipurpose pop-up electrical connector socket assembly as claimed in any one of the preceding claims further comprising a bezel engaging the receptacle and adapted for locating in an opening in a surface.
  3. A multipurpose pop-up electrical connector socket assembly as claimed in any one of the preceding claims further comprising an opening provided in a side wall of the tubular receptacle configured to allow an electrical connection or power cable to extend into the tubular receptacle and move upwardly and downwardly as the carriage moves up and down.
  4. 4. A multipurpose pop-up electrical connector socket assembly as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the carriage is formed with a bottom cap, a top cap relative to which the top plate is provided and at least one side wall portion located between the bottom cap and top cap.
  5. 5. A multipurpose pop-up electrical connector socket assembly as claimed in claim 4 wherein a single, partially arcuate side wall portion is provided, with a gap in the side wall portion with a pair of spaced apart free edges.
  6. 6. A multipurpose pop-up electrical connector socket assembly as claimed in claim wherein the primary socket is located between the free edges to close the gap in the side wall portion.
  7. 7. A multipurpose pop-up electrical connector socket assembly as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the primary socket is provided in a horizontal rather than a vertical configuration.
  8. 8. A multipurpose pop-up electrical connector socket assembly as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein one or more openings are provided in the side wall portion to allow insertion of a connector or plug to connect to the at least one secondary electrical connector socket.
  9. 9. A multipurpose pop-up electrical connector socket assembly as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the at least one secondary electrical connector socket is offset from the at least one primary electrical connector socket by approximately 90'.
  10. 10. A multipurpose pop-up electrical connector socket assembly as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the at least one secondary electrical connector socket is mounted within the carriage relative to an internal wall or bracing. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16.
  11. A multipurpose pop-up electrical connector socket assembly as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein a first internal wall or bracing is provided for the mounting of the at least one primary electrical connection socket and a second internal wall bracing is provided for the mounting of the at least one secondary electrical connection socket with the first internal wall or bracing provided perpendicularly to the second internal wall or bracing within the carriage.
  12. A multipurpose pop-up electrical connector socket assembly as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein two or more secondary electrical connector sockets are provided.
  13. A multipurpose pop-up electrical connector socket assembly as claimed in claim 12 wherein a combination of different types of at least one secondary electrical connector socket is provided.
  14. A multipurpose pop-up electrical connector socket assembly as claimed in claim 12 or claim 13 wherein the at least two secondary electrical connector sockets are positioned vertically, in a stacked configuration, one above the other.
  15. A multipurpose pop-up electrical connector socket assembly as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the top plate is associated with a wireless charging system.
  16. A multipurpose pop-up electrical connector socket assembly as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein a scat for a biasing means may be provided in the bottom cap. Noimally, the seat is provided formed into the underside of the bottom cap. The biasing means will be braced or positioned at a lower side, against a stop mounted relative to the tubular receptacle such that the carriage must be forced downwardly against the biasing force of the biasing means.
  17. 17. A multipurpose pop-up electrical connector socket assembly as claimed in any one of the preceding claims further comprising a biasing means to bias the pop-up electrical connector socket assembly into the open condition.
  18. 18. A multipurpose pop-up electrical connector socket assembly as claimed in claim 17 further comprising a catch or latch assembly or mechanism to hold the carriage in the closed condition, catch or latch assembly or mechanism engaged and disengaged by pressing the carriage downwardly.
  19. 19. A multipurpose pop-up electrical connector socket assembly as claimed in claim 18 wherein the catch or latch assembly or mechanism is provided between the carnage and a portion of the tubular receptacle.
  20. 20. A multipurpose pop-up electrical connector socket assembly as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein all components of the pop-up electrical connector socket are provided relative to the carriage with a biasing means located between a lower end of the carriage and the tubular receptacle and the mains power cable being connected through the carriage.
GB2114368.0A 2021-10-07 2021-10-07 A multipurpose pop-up electrical connector socket assembly Pending GB2615987A (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GB2114368.0A GB2615987A (en) 2021-10-07 2021-10-07 A multipurpose pop-up electrical connector socket assembly

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GB2114368.0A GB2615987A (en) 2021-10-07 2021-10-07 A multipurpose pop-up electrical connector socket assembly

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
GB202114368D0 GB202114368D0 (en) 2021-11-24
GB2615987A true GB2615987A (en) 2023-08-30

Family

ID=78595188

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
GB2114368.0A Pending GB2615987A (en) 2021-10-07 2021-10-07 A multipurpose pop-up electrical connector socket assembly

Country Status (1)

Country Link
GB (1) GB2615987A (en)

Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE102007051053A1 (en) * 2006-10-19 2008-08-21 Bachmann Gmbh & Co. Kg Connection column, has plug-in part, where shifting of plug-in part from retracted position to extended position, and from extended position to retracted position is triggered and effected by mechanical impact on top end of plug-in part
GB2452964A (en) * 2007-09-20 2009-03-25 Ray Mazzullo Electrical sockets on structure with lifting means
CN105071168A (en) * 2015-07-30 2015-11-18 美力达电子（昆山）有限公司 Embedded wireless charging power strip

Patent Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE102007051053A1 (en) * 2006-10-19 2008-08-21 Bachmann Gmbh & Co. Kg Connection column, has plug-in part, where shifting of plug-in part from retracted position to extended position, and from extended position to retracted position is triggered and effected by mechanical impact on top end of plug-in part
GB2452964A (en) * 2007-09-20 2009-03-25 Ray Mazzullo Electrical sockets on structure with lifting means
CN105071168A (en) * 2015-07-30 2015-11-18 美力达电子（昆山）有限公司 Embedded wireless charging power strip

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Publication number Publication date
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