WO2017119873A1

WO2017119873A1 - Receptacle with insulation layer

Info

Publication number: WO2017119873A1
Application number: PCT/US2016/012294
Authority: WO
Inventors: Dinesh JINDAL
Original assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
Priority date: 2016-01-06
Filing date: 2016-01-06
Publication date: 2017-07-13

Abstract

Examples disclosed herein relate to a receptacle with insulation layer. Examples include a first electrical contact to couple to a first prong, moveably coupled to a power source. Examples include an insulation layer disposed to electrically isolate the first electrical contact in a first position. Examples include a second electrical contact to couple to a second prong. In examples, the first electrical contact is moved from the first position to a second position in response to a force applied uniformly to the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact and the first electrical contact is electrically coupled to the power source in the second position.

Description

RECEPTACLE WITH INSULATION LAYER

BACKGROUND

[0001] Electrical devices may be connected to a power source provided via a power receptacle. Receptacles are the end points for the electrical source generally provided by utility companies or directly generated by consumers. A receptacle includes a number of openings or holes to receive terminal connections or prongs from a plug. The dimensions and locations of the openings or holes in a receptacle may mirror the terminal connections or prongs of a plug. The terminal connections or prongs of a plug are electrically coupled with a receptacle via the openings or holes of the receptacle.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0002] The following detaled description references the drawings, wherein:

[0003] FIGs. 1a-1c are side views of an example receptacle.

[0004] FIGs. 2a-2c are side views of an example receptacle.

[0005] FIGs. 3a- 3c are side views of an example receptacle.

[0006] FIGs. 4a-4c are side views of an example receptacle.

[0007] FIGs. 5a-5d are side views of example receptacles.

[0008] FIG. 6 is an example of a method for providing power via a receptacle according to an example.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0009] in the following discussion and in the claims, the term "couple," "couples," etc., is intended to include suitable indirect and/or direct connections. Thus, if a first component is described as being coupled to a second component that coupling may, for example, be (1 ) through a direct electrical, mechanical, or thermal connection, (2) through an indirect electrical, mechanical, or thermal connection via other devices and connections, (3) through an optical electrical connection, (4) through a wireless electrical connection, and/or (5) another suitable coupling. The term "approximately" as used herein to modify a value is intended to be determined based on the understanding of one of ordinary skill in the art, and can, for example, mean plus or minus 10% of that value.

[0010] Electrical receptacles come in many varieties. An electrical receptacle electrically couples a power source and a plug inserted into the receptacle, in examples, a plug includes at least two terminal prongs which are inserted into openings of the receptacle. The prongs couple to one or more electrical contacts of the receptacle to electrically couple with the power source. One prong is to electrically couple to the power source via an electrical contact and another prong Is to couple to a ground or neutral connection via another electrical contact, thereby forming a circuit to supply power to the plug. The electrical contacts may be of a variety of shapes to accommodate the prongs and form a reliable electrical connection to the prongs. In some examples, the electrical contacts may be a metal plate to engage with one or more surfaces of the prongs of the plug. In continuously charged receptacles there is a risk of electrical shock from the insertion of conducting objects, such as a key or bobby pin, into the openings of the receptacle. For example, a young child may insert a metal nail into a receptacle opening and be electrically shocked by the power source provided by the receptacle.

[0011] To address these Issues, in the examples described herein, a receptacle is described which reduces the risk of electrical shock by electrically isolating the receptacle from the power source until a plug is inserted therein, in examples, the receptacle includes an insulation layer to electrically isolate an electrical contact from the power source. In such examples, the electrical contact is electrically coupled to the power source when a first electrical contact is moved a specific distance. In another such example, the electrical contact is moved to electrically couple to the power source in response to a uniform force received by at least two electrical contacts of the receptacle. In such an example, the receptacle will remain electrically isolated from the power source if a conductive object is inserted into a single opening of the receptacle. In such examples, a hinge assembly may prevent the conductive object from moving the electrical contact the specific distance to electrically couple to the power source.

[0012] Referring now to the drawings, FIGs. 1a-1care side views of an example receptacle 100. In the example of FIGs. 1a-1c, receptacle 100 may include a first electrical contact 110, a power source connection 120, a second electrical contact 130, and an insulation layer 113. in an example, power source connection 120 is electrically coupled to power source 10. In an example, a hinge assembly 150 may be disposed to receive a force applied to first electrical contact 110 and/or second electrical contact 130.

[0013] In some examples, power source 10 may be any type of power source, such as. an alternating current power source or a direct current power source provided by a utility, a generator, a solar panel, etc. In the example of FIGs. 1 a-1 c, power source 10 may be coupled to power source connection 120 to provide power to receptacle 100. In some examples, electrical receptacle 100 may be a wall receptacle or an extension cord receptacle. In some examples, receptacle 100 may include at least two openings or holes to receive prong 5a and prong 5b of a plug 5. In the example of FIGs. 1a-1c, prong 5a may be configured to couple to power source 10 and prong 5b may be configured to couple to a neutral terminal. In other examples, receptacle 100 may include a third opening to receive a third prong to couple to a ground connection. Power source connection 120 may be any type of connection to form an electrical connection with power source 10, such as a conducting plate, a wire, etc. In some examples, power source connection 120 may be the component of receptacle 100 electrically coupled to power source 10. In other examples, first electrical contact 110 may be electrically coupled to power source 10 via power source connection 120.

[0014] in the example of FIG. 1a. first electrical contact 110 is in a first state where first electrical contact 110 is in a first position in which first electrical contact 110 is electrically isolated from power source connection 120 by insulation layer 113. In the example of FIG. 1 c, first electrical contact 110 is in a second state where first electrical contact 110 Is in a second position in which first electrical contact 110 is electrically coupled to power source connection 120. In the example of FIG. 1 b, first electrical contact 110 is in an intermediate state between the first state shown in FIG. 1a and the second state shown in FIG. 1c, in which first electrical contact 110 is in the first position and remains electrically isolated from power source connection 120 by insulation layer 113.

[0015] in examples, first electrical contact 110 may be moveably coupled to power source connection 120. In a first state in which no prongs or objects are inserted into receptacle 100, depicted by FIG. 1 a, electrical contact 110 is electrically isolated from power source connection 120 by insulation layer 113. In such an example, power source connection 120 may be the component electrically coupled to power source 10. in some examples, insulation layer 113 may be disposed on a distal end of first electrical contact 110 as depicted in FIGs. 1a-1c. In such an example, insulation layer 113 may be dimensioned such that first electrical contact 110 remains electrically isolated from power source connection 120 until first electrical contact 110 has moved or traveled a specific distance, as depicted in FIG. 1c. The specific distance may be the distance first electrical contact 110 moves in order to no longer be electrically isolated from power source 10. For examples, the specific distance may be the distance from the first position of FIG. 1a until the second position of FIG. 1c. it will be understood that first electrical contact 110 may be electrically coupled to power source 10 via power source connection 120 at some intermediate point before the second position depicted in FIG. 1c. in such an example, the second position may be a position at which first electrical contact 110 may be stably electrically coupled to power source connection 120. A stable electrical coupling may be an electrical coupling in which the flow of electricity from a first component to a second component is stable. In contrast, a non-stable electrical coupling may be prone to failure or interruption. In the example of FIG. 1c, the second position may be a position at which first electrical contact 110 is directly in contact with power source connection 120 with sufficient surface area to form a stable electrical coupling. In examples, the specific distance may be approximately the same distance as a length of prong 5a to be inserted into receptacle 100. in such examples, first electrical contact 110 may remain electrically isolated until prong 5a and prong 5b are substantially inserted No plug 100. in other examples, the specific distance may be less than a length of prong 5a to be inserted into receptacle 100.

[0016] In the example of FIG. 1 b, first electrical contact 110 is aiso in the first position because first electrical contact 110 remains electrically isolated from power source connection 120. In such an example, first electrical contact 110 and second electrical contact 130 have moved less than the specific distance in response to a force applied by plug 5 via prong 5a and prong 5b. In such an example, insulation layer 113 has moved in response to the movement of first electrical contact 110 and remains disposed to electrically isolate power source connection 120 from first electrical contact 110.

[0017] In the example of FIG. 1c, first electrical contact 110 is disposed at the second position in which first electrical contact 110 is electrically coupled to power source connection 120. In such am example, first electrical contact 110 has moved or traveled the specific distance such that insulation layer 113 is no longer disposed to electrically isolate power source connection 120 from first electrical contact 110. in an example, first electrical contact 110 has moved in response to a force applied by plug 5 via prong 5a and prong 5b. In the example of FIG. 1c, prong 5a and prong 5b are fully embedded in the openings of receptacle 100 to move first electrical contact 110 and second electrical contact 130, respectively. Arthough examples describe f^electtcal txintact 110 as moving in response to a force to electrically couple with power source connection 120, it will be understood that other components may move, such as power source connection 120.

[0018] insulation layer 113 may be comprised of any electrically insulating material to electrically insulate first electrical contact 110. In some examples- insulation iayer 113 may be comprised of at least one of polyethylene, crosslinked polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride, Kapton®, rubber-like polymers, oil impregnated paper, Teflon®, silicone, or modified ethylene tetrafluoroethylene, etc. In an example, insulation Iayer 113 may be disposed to form a distal end of first electrical contact 110, as depicted in FIGs. 1a-1c. However, the examples are not limited thereto, and insulation Iayer 113 may be disposed on any surface of first electrical contact 110 to electrically isolate first electrical contact 110 from power source connection 120 in the first position. In such an example, the openings of receptacle 100 remain electrically isolated from the power source 10 until the second position is reached by first electrical contact 110. in some examples, between approximately 0.1 mm and approximately 18 mm of insulation iayer 113 may be disposed on the distal end of first electrical contact 110. [0019] In some examples, first electrical contact 110 may move in response to a force applied uniformly to first electrical contact 110 and second electrical contact 130. In such examples, first electrical contact 110 may not move to be electrically coupled to power source connection 120 when an object is inserted into an opening corresponding to first electrical contact 110. Such a receptacle may be safer to operate because first electrical contact 110 remains electrically isolated until a uniform force is applied to both first electrical contact 110 and second electrical contact 130. in such examples, a child may be less likely to be able to apply a uniform force to both first electrical contact 110 and second electrical contact 130. Rather, a uniform force may be received from a plug with at least two prongs inserted into the openings of such a receptacle.

[0020] in some examples, receptacle 100 may receive a uniform force applied to first electrical contact 110 and second electrical contact 130. In such examples, receptacle 100 may transfer the received force to move first electrical contact 110 to electrically couple to power source connection 120. in examples, receptacle 100 may not move first electrical contact 110 to electrically couple to power source connection 120 when a nonuniform force is received at first electrical contact 110 and second electrical contact 130. For example, in response to a force applied to first electrical contact 110 and not applied to second electrical contact 130, receptacle 100 may not transfer sufficient force to move first electrical contact 110 to be electrically coupled to power source connection 120, as depicted in FIG.5a. FIG. 5a is a side view of receptacle 100 of FIGs. 1a-1c. in the example of FIG. 5a, an object 7 is inserted into an opening of receptacle 100 corresponding to first electrical contact 110. In the example of FIG. 5a, Nnge assembly 150 may receive tile force applied to first electrical contact 110. in such an examples, hinge assembly 150 may allow first electrical contact 110 to move a distance less than the specific distance in response to the force applied by object 7.

[0021] in examples, hinge assembly 150 may be any mechanical or electrical component to receive the force applied to first electrical contact 110 and/or second electrical contact 130. In examples, hinge assembly 150 may transfer the received force to allow first electrical contact 110 to electrically couple to power source connection 120. In examples, hinge assembly 150 may be a spring or a spring assembly with a spring constant sufficient to allow first electrical contact 110 to moveably couple to power source connection 120 when a sufficient uniform force is applied to first electrical contact 110 and second electrical contact 130. in other examples, Nnge assembly 150 may be an electrical circuit to determine whether a sufficient uniform force has been applied to first electrical contact 110 and second electrical contact 130 and to allow first electrical contact 110 to electrically couple to power source connection 120 when sufficient uniform force is received. In examples, hinge assembly 150 is to prevent first electrical contact 110 from moving from the first position to the second position in response to a non-uniform force applied to first electrical contact 110 and second electrical contact 130. In another example, hinge assembly 150 is to prevent first electrical contact 110 from moving from the first position to the second position in response to a force applied to first electrical contact 110 and not applied to second electrical contact 130.

[0022] FIGs. 2a-2c are side views of an example receptacle 200. In the example of FIGs. 2a-2c, receptacle 200 may include a first electrical contact 210, a power source connection 220, a second electrical contact 230, and an insulation layer 213. in an example, power source connection 220 is electrically coupled to power source 10. In an example, a hinge assembly 250 may be disposed to receive a force applied to first electrical contact 210 and/or second electrical contact 230.

[0023] In the examples of FIGs. 2a-2c, power source 10 may be coupled to power source connection 220 to provide power to receptacle 200. In some examples, electrical receptacle 200 may be a wall receptacle or an extension cord receptacle. In some examples, receptacle 200 may include at least two openings or holes to receive prong 5a and prong 5b of plug 5. In the example of FIGs. 2a-2c, prong 5a may be configured to couple to power source 10 and prong 5b may be configured to couple to a neutral terminal. In other examples, receptacle 200 may include a third opening to receive a third prong to couple to a ground connection. Power source connection 220 may be any type of connection to form an electrical connection with power source 10, such as a conducting plate, a wire, etc. In some examples, power source connection 220 may be the component of receptacle 200 electrically coupled to power source 10. In other examples, first electrical contact 210 may be electrically coupled to power source 10 via power source connection 220.

[0024] In the example of FIG. 2a, first electrical contact 210 is in a first state where first electrical contact 210 is in a first position in which first electrical contact 210 is electrically isolated from power source connection 220 by insulation layer 213. In the example of FIG.2c first electrical contact 210 is in a second state where first electrical contact 210 is in a second position in which first electrical contact 210 is electrically coupled to power source connection 220. In the example of FIG. 2b, first electrical contact 210 is in an intermediate state between the first state shown in FIG.2a and the second state shown in FIG, 2c, in which first electrical contact 210 is in the first position and remains electrically isolated from power source connection 220 by insulation layer 213.

[0025] In examples, first electrical contact 210 may be moveably coupled to power source connection 220. In a first state in which no prongs or objects are inserted into receptacle 200, depicted by FIG. 2a, first electrical contact 210 is electrically isolated from power source connection 220 by insulation layer 213. In such an example, power source connection 220 may be the component electrically coupled to power source 10. In some examples, insulation layer 213 may be disposed on a first surface of first electrical contact 210 as depicted in FIGs. 2a-2c. In such an example, insulation layer 213 may be dimensioned such that first electrical contact 210 remains electrically isolated from power source connection 220 until first electrical contact 210 has moved a specific distance, as depicted in FIG. 2c. The specific distance may be the distance first electrical contact 210 moves in order to no longer be electrically isolated from power source 10. For examples, the specific distance may be the distance from the first position of FIG. 2a until the second position of FIG. 2c. It will be understood that first electrical contact 210 may be electrically coupled to power source 10 via power source connection 220 at some intermediate point before the second position depicted in FIG. 2c. In such an example, the second position may be a position at which first electrical contact 210 may be stably electrically coupled to power source connection 220. A stable electrical coupling may be an electrical coupling in which the flow of electricity from a first component to a second component is stable. In contrast, a non-stable electrical coupling may be prone to failure or interruption, in the example of FIG. 2c, the second position may be a position at which first electrical contact 210 is directly in contact with power source connection 220 with sufficient surface area to form a stable electrical coupling. In examples, the specific distance may be approximately the same distance as a length of prong 5a to be inserted into receptacle 200. In such examples, first electrical contact 210 may remain electrically isolated until prong 5a and prong 5b are substantially inserted into plug 200. In other examples, the specific distance may be less than a length of prong 5a to be inserted into receptacle 200.

[0026] in the example of FIG.2b, first electrical contact 210 is also in the first position because first electrical contact 210 remains electrically isolated from power source connection 220. In such an example, first electrical contact 210 and second electrical contact 230 have moved less than the specific distance in response to a force applied by plug 5 via prong 5a and prong 5b. In such an example, insulation layer 213 has moved in response to the movement of first electrical contact 210 and remains disposed to electrically isolate power source connection 220 from first electrical contact 210.

[0027] in the example of FIG.2c, first electrical contact 210 is disposed at the second position in which first electrical contact 210 is electrically coupled to power source connection 220. In such an example, first electrical contact 210 has moved the specific distance such that insulation layer 213 is no longer disposed to electrically isolate power source connection 220 from first electrical contact 210. In an example, first electrical contact 210 has moved in response to a force applied by plug 5 via prong 5a and prong 5b. In the example of FIG. 2c, prong 5a and prong 5b are fully embedded in the openings of receptacle 200 to move first electrical contact 210 and second electrical contact 230, respectively. Although examples describe first electrical contact 210 as moving in response to a force to electrically couple wHh power source connection 220, it will be understood that other components may move, such as power source connection 220.

[0028] insulation layer 213 may be comprised of any electrically insulating material to electrically insulate first electrical contact 210. In some examples, insulation layer 213 may be comprised of at least one of polyethylene, crosslinked polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride, Kapton®, rubber-like polymers, oil impregnated paper, Teflon®, silicone, or modified ethylene tetrafiuoroethyiene, etc. in an example, insulation layer 213 may be disposed on a portion of the first surface of first electrical contact 210 as depicted in FIGs.2a~2c. However, the examples are not limited thereto, and insulation layer 213 may be disposed on any surface of first electrical contact 210 to electrically isolate first electrical contact 210 from power source connection 220 in the first position, in such an example, the openings of receptacle 200 remain electrically isolated from the power source 10 until the second position is reached by first electrical contact 210. In some examples, between approximately 0.1 mm and approximately 5 mm of insulation layer 213 may be disposed on first electrical contact 210.

[0029] in some examples, first electrical contact 210 may move in response to a force applied uniformly to first electrical contact 210 and second electrical contact 230. In such examples, first electrical contact 210 may not move to be electrically coupled to power source connection 220 when an object is inserted into an opening corresponding to first electrical contact 210. Such a receptacle may be safer to operate because first electrical contact 210 remains electrically isolated until a uniform force is applied to both first electrical contact 210 and second electrical contact 230. In such examples, a child may be less likely to be able to apply a uniform force to both first electrical contact 110 and second electrical contact 130. Rather, a uniform force may be received from a plug with at least two prongs inserted into the openings of such a receptacle.

[0030] in some examples, receptacle 200 may receive a uniform force applied to first electrical contact 210 and second electrical contact 230. In such examples, receptacle 200 may transfer the received force to move first electrical contact 210 to electrically couple to power source connection 220. In examples, receptacle 200 may not move first electrical contact 210 to electrically couple to power source connection 220 when a non-uniform force is received at first electrical contact 210 and second electrical contact 230. For example, in response to a force applied to first electrical contact 210 and not applied to second electrical contact 230, receptacle 200 may not transfer sufficient force to move first electrical contact 210 to be electrically coupled to power source connection 220, as depicted in FIG. 5b. FIG. 5b is a side view of receptacle 200 of FIGs.2a-2c. in the example of FIG. 5b, an object 7 is inserted into an opening of receptacle 200 corresponding to first electrical contact 210. in the example of FIG. 5b, hinge assembly 250 may receive the force applied to first electrical contact 210. in such an examples, hinge assembly 250 may allow first electrical contact 210 to move a distance less than the specific distance in response to the force applied by object 7.

[0031] In examples, hinge assembly 250 may be any mechanical or electrical component to receive the force applied to first electrical contact 210 and/or second electrical contact 230. In examples, hinge assembly 250 may transfer the received force to allow first electrical contact 210 to electrically couple to power source connection 220. In examples, hinge assembly 250 may be a spring or a spring assembly with a spring constant sufficient to allow first electrical contact 210 to moveably couple to power source connection 220 when a sufficient uniform force is applied to first electrical contact 210 and second electrical contact 230. In other examples, hinge assembly 250 may be an electrical circuit to determine whether a sufficient uniform force has been applied to first electrical contact 210 and second electrical contact 230 and to allow first electrical contact 210 to electrically couple to power source connection 220 when sufficient uniform force is received. In examples, hinge assembly 250 is to prevent first electrical contact 210 from moving from the first position to the second position in response to a non-uniform force applied to first electrical contact 210 and second electrical contact 230. In another example, hinge assembly 250 is to prevent first electrical contact 210 from moving from the first position to the second position in response to a force applied to first electrical contact 210 and not applied to second electrical contact 230.

[0032] FIGs. 3a-3c are side views of an example receptacle 300. In the example of FIGs. 3a-3c, receptacle 300 may include a first electrical contact 310, a power source connection 320, a second electrical contact 330, and an insulation layer 323. In an example, power source connection 320 is electrically coupled to power source 30. In an example, a hinge assembly 350 may be disposed to receive a force applied to first electrical contact 310 and/or second electrical contact 330.

[0033] In some examples, power source 10 may be any type of power source, such as, an alternating current power source or a direct current power source provided by a utility, a generator, a solar panel, etc. in the example of FIGs.3a-3c, power source 10 may be coupled to power source connection 320 to provide power to receptacle 300. in some examples, electrical receptacle 300 may be a wall receptacle or an extension cord receptacle. In some examples, receptacle 300 may include at least two openings or holes to receive prong 5a and prong 5b of a plug 5. In the example of FIGs. 3a-3c, prong 5a may be configured to couple to power source 10 and prong 5b may be configured to couple to a neutral terminal. In other examples, receptacle 300 may include a third opening to receive a third prong to couple to a ground connection. Power source connection 320 may be any type of connection to form an electrical connection with power source 10, such as a conducting plate, a wire, etc. in some examples, power source connection 320 may be the component of receptacle 300 electrically coupled to power source 10. In other examples, first electrical contact 310 may be electrically coupled to power source 10 via power source connection 320.

[0034] in the example of FIG. 3a, first electrical contact 310 is in a first state where first electrical contact 310 is in a first position in which first electrical contact 310 is electrically isolated from power source connection 320 by insulation layer 323. In the example of FIG. 3c, first electrical contact 310 is in a second state where first electrical contact 310 is in a second position in which first electrical contact 310 is electrically coupled to power source connection 320. In Hie example of FIG. 3b, first electrical contact 310 is in an intermediate state between the first state shown in FIG. 3a and the second state shown in FIG. 3c, in which first electrical contact 310 is in the first position and remains electrically isolated from power source connection 320 by insulation layer 323.

[0035] In examples, first electrical contact 310 may be moveably coupled to power source connection 320. In a first state in which no prongs or objects are inserted into receptacle 300, depicted by FIG. 3a, electrical contact 310 is electrically isolated from power source connection 320 by insulation layer 323. In such an example, power source connection 320 may be the component electrically coupled to power source 10. In some examples, insulation layer 323 may be disposed on a distal end of power source connection 320 as depicted in FIGs. 3c. In such an example, insulation layer 323 may be dimensioned such that first electrical contact 310 remains electrically isolated from power source connection 320 until first electrical contact 310 has moved a specific distance, as depicted in FIG. 3c. The specific distance may be die distance first electrical contact 310 moves in order to no longer be electrically isolated from power source 10. For examples, the specific distance may be the distance from the first position of FIG. 3a until the second position of FIG. 3c. It will be understood that first electrical contact 310 may be electrically coupled to power source 10 via power source connection 320 at some intermediate point before the second position depicted in FIG. 3c. In such an example, the second position may be a position at which first electrical contact 310 may be stably electrically coupled to power source connection 320. A stable electrical coupling may be an electrical coupling in which the flow of electricity from a first component to a second component is stable. In contrast, a non-stable electrical coupling may be prone to failure or interruption, in the example of FIG. 3c, the second position may be a position at which first electrical contact 310 is directly in contact with power source connection 320 with sufficient surface area to form a stable electrical coupling. In examples, the specific distance may be approximately the same distance as a length of prong 5a to be inserted into receptacle 300. In such examples, first electrical contact 310 may remain electrically isolated until prang 5a and prong 5b are substantially inserted into plug 300. in other examples, the specific distance may be less than a length of prong 5a to be inserted Into receptacle 300.

[0036] in the example of FIG.3b, first electrical contact 310 is also in the first position because first electrical contact 310 remains electrically isolated from power source connection 320. In such an example, first electrical contact 310 and second electrical contact 330 have moved less than the specific distance in response to a force applied by plug 5 via prong 5a and prong 5b. In such an example, insulation layer 323 remains disposed to electrically isolate power source connection 320 from first electrical contact 310.

[0037] In the example of FIG.3c, first electrical contact 310 is disposed at the second position in which first electrical contact 310 is electrically coupled to power source connection 320. In such an example, first electrical contact 310 has moved the specific distance such that insulation layer 323 is no longer disposed to electrically isolate power source connection 320 from first electrical contact 310. In an example, first electrical contact 310 has moved in response to a force applied by plug 5 via prong 5a and prong 5b. In the example of FIG. 3c, prong 5a and prong 5b are fully embedded in the openings of receptacle 300 to move first electrical contact 310 and second electrical contact 330, respectively. Although examples describe first electrical contact 310 as moving in response to a force to electrically couple with power source connection 320, it will be understood that other components may move, such as power source connection 320.

[0038] insulation layer 323 may be comprised of any electrically insulating material to electrically insulate first electrical contact 320. In some examples, insulation layer 323 may be comprised of at least one of polyethylene, cross!inked polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride, Kapton®, rubber-like polymers, oil impregnated paper, Teflon®, silicone, or modified ethylene tetraffuoroethylene, etc. in an example, insulation layer 323 may be disposed to form a distal end of power source connection 320, as depicted in FIGs. 3a-3c. However, the examples are not limited thereto, and insulation layer 323 may be disposed on any surface of power source connection 320 to electrically Isolate first electrical contact 310 from power source connection 320 in the first position. In such an example, the openings of receptacle 300 remain electrically isolated from power source 10 until the second position is reached by first electrical contact 310. In some examples, between approximately 0.1 mm and approximately 18 mm of insulation layer 323 may be disposed on the distal end of power source connection 320.

[0039] in some examples, first electrical contact 310 may move in response to a force applied uniformly to first electrical contact 310 and second electrical contact 330. In such examples, first electrical contact 310 may not move to be electrically coupled to power source connection 320 when an object is inserted into an opening corresponding to first electrical contact 310. Such a receptacle may be safer to operate because first electrical contact 310 remains electrically Isolated until a uniform force is applied to both first electrical contact 310 and second electrical contact 330. in such examples, a child may be less likely to be able to apply a uniform force to both first electrical contact 310 and second electrical contact 330. Rather, a uniform force may be received from a plug with at least two prongs inserted into the openings of such a receptacle.

[0040] in some examples, receptacle 300 may receive a uniform force applied to first electrical contact 310 and second electrical contact 330. In such examples, receptacle 300 may transfer the received force to move first electrical contact 310 to electrically couple to power source connection 320. in examples, receptacle 300 may not move first electrical contact 310 to electrically couple to power source connection 320 when a non-uniform force is received at first electrical contact 310 and second electrical contact 330. For example, in response to a force applied to first electrical contact 310 and not applied to second electrical contact 330, receptacle 300 may not transfer sufficient force to move first electrical contact 310 to be electrically coupled to power source connection 320, as depicted in FIG.5c FIG. 5c is a side view of receptacle 300 of FIGs. 3a-3c. In the example of FIG. 5c, an object 7 is inserted into an opening of receptacle 300 corresponding to first electrical contact 310. In the example of FIG. 5c, hinge assembly 350 may receive the force applied to first electrical contact 310. In such an examples, hinge assembly 350 may allow first electrical contact 310 to move a distance less than the specific distance in response to the force applied by object 7.

[0041] In examples, hinge assembly 350 may be any mechanical or electrical cornponent to receive the force applied to first electrical contact 310 and/or second electrical contact 330. In examples, hinge assembly 350 may transfer the received force to allow first electrical contact 310 to electrically couple to power source connection 320. In examples, hinge assembly 350 may be a spring or a spring assembly with a spring constant sufficient to allow first electrical contact 310 to moveably couple to power source connection 320 when a sufficient uniform force is applied to first electrical contact 310 and second electrical contact 330. In other examples, hinge assembly 350 may be an electrical circuit to determine whether a sufficient uniform force has been applied to first electrical contact 310 and second electrical contact 330 and to allow first electrical contact 310 to electrically couple to power source connection 320 when sufficient uniform force is received. In examples, hinge assembly 350 is to prevent first electrical contact 310 from moving from the first position to the second position in response to a non-uniform force applied to first electrical contact 310 and second electrical contact 330. In another example, hinge assembly 350 is to prevent first electrical contact 310 from moving from the first position to the second position in response to a force applied to first electrical contact 310 and not applied to second electrical contact 330. [0042] FIGs.4a-4c are side views of an example receptacle 400. In the example of FIGs. 4a-4c. receptacle 400 may include a first electrical contact 410, a power source connection 420, a second electrical contact 430, end an insulation layer 423. In an example, power source connection 420 is electrically coupled to power source 10. In an example, a hinge assembly 450 may be disposed to receive a force applied to first electrical contact 410 and/or second electrical contact 430.

[0043] In the examples of FIGs. 4a -4c. power source 10 may be coupled to power source connection 420 to provide power to receptacle 400. In some examples, electrical receptacle 400 may be a wall receptacle or an extension cord receptacle. In some examples, receptacle 400 may include at feast two openings or holes to receive prong 5a and prong 5b of plug 5. In the example of FIGs. 4a-4c, prong 5a may be configured to couple to power source 10 and prong 5b may be configured to couple to a neutral terminal. In other examples, receptacle 400 may include a third opening to receive a third prong to couple to a ground connection. Power source connection 420 may be any type of connection to form an electrical connection with power source 10, such as a conducting plate, a wire, etc in some examples, power source connection 420 may be the component of receptacle 400 electrically coupled to power source 10. In other examples, first electrical contact 410 may be electrically coupled to power source 10 via power source connection 420.

[0044] In tiie example of FIG. 4a. first electrical contact 410 Is in a first state where first electrical contact 410 is in a first position in which first electrical contact 410 is electrically isolated from power source connection 420 by insulation layer 423. In the example of FIG.4c, first electrical contact 410 is in a second state where first electrical contact 410 is in a second position in which first electrical contact 410 is electrically coupled to power source connection 420. In the example of FIG. 4b, first electrical contact 410 is in an intermediate state between the first state shown in FIG.4a and the second state shown in FIG. 4c, in which first electrical contact 410 Is in the first position and remains electrically isolated from power source connection 420 by insulation layer 423.

[0045] In examples, first electrical contact 410 may be moveably coupled to power source connection 420. In a first state in which no prongs or objects are inserted into receptacle 400, depicted by FIG.4a, first electrical contact 410 is electrically isolated from power source connection 420 by insulation layer 423. In such an example, power source connection 420 may be the component electrically coupled to power source 10. In some examples, insulation layer 423 may be disposed on a first surface of power source connection 420 as depicted in FIGs.4a-4c. In such an example, insulation layer 423 may be dimensioned such that first electrical contact 410 remains electrically isolated from power source connection 420 until first electrical contact 410 has moved a specific distance, as depicted in FIG. 4c. The specific distance may be the distance first electrical contact 410 moves in order to no longer be etectncafty isolated from power source 10, For examples, the specific distance may be the distance from the first position of FIG. 4a until the second position of FIG. 4c. it will be understood that first electrical contact 410 may be e!ectricai!y coupled to power source 10 via power source connection 420 at some intermediate point before the second position depicted in FIG. 4c. In such an example, the second position may be a position at which first electrical contact 410 may be stably electrically coupled to power source connection 420. A stable electrical coupling may be an electrical coupling in which the flow of electricity from a first component to a second component is stable. In contrast, a non-stable electrical coupling may be prone to failure or interruption. In the example of FIG. 4c, the second position may be a position at which first electrical contact 410 is directly in contact with power source connection 420 with sufficient surface area to form a stable electrical coupling, in examples, the specific distance may be approximately the same distance as a length of prong 5a to be inserted into receptacle 400. In such examples, first electrical contact 410 may remain electrically isolated until prong 5a and prong 5b are substantially inserted into plug 400. In other examples, the specific distance may be less than a length of prong 5a to be inserted into receptacle 400.

[0046] in the example of FIG.4b. first electrical contact 410 is also in the first position because first electrical contact 410 remains electrically isolated from power source connection 420. in such an example, first electrical contact 410 and second electrical contact 430 have moved less than the specific distance in response to a force applied by plug 5 via prong 5a and prong 5b. In such an example, insulation layer 423 remains disposed to electrically isolate power source connection 420 from first electrical contact 410.

[0047] in the example of FIG.4c, first electrical contact 410 is disposed at the second position in which first electrical contact 410 is electrically coupled to power source connection 420. In such an example, first electrical contact 410 has moved the specific distance such that insulation layer 423 is no longer disposed to electrically isolate power source connection 420 from first electrical contact 410. In an example, first electrical contact 410 has moved in response to a force applied by plug 5 via prong 5a and prong 5b. in the example of FIG. 4c, prong 5a and prong 5b are fully embedded in the openings of receptacle 400 to move first electrical contact410 and second electrical contact 430, respectively. Although examples describe first electrical contact 410 as moving in response to a force to electrically couple with power source connection 420, it will be understood that other components may move, such as power source connection 420.

[004m Insulation layer 423 may be cornprised of any electrically insulating material to electrically insulate first electrical contact 420. In some examples, insulation layer 423 may be comprised of at least one of polyethylene, crosslinked polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride, Kapton®, rubber-like polymers, oil impregnated paper, Teflon®, silicone, or modified ethylene tetraftuoroethylene, etc. In an example, insulation layer 423 may be disposed on a portion of the first surface of power source connection 420 as depicted in FIGs. 4a-4c. However, the examples are not limited thereto, and insulation layer 423 may be disposed on any surface of power source connection 420 to electrically isolate first electrical contact 410 from power source connection 420 in the first position. In such an example, the openings of receptacle 400 remain electrically isolated from power source 10 until the second position is reached by first electrical contact 410. In some examples, between approximately 0.1 mm and approximately 5 mm of insulation layer 423 may be disposed on power source connection 420.

[0049] in some examples, first electrical contact 410 may move in response to a force applied uniformly to first electrical contact 410 and second electrical contact 430. In such examples, first electrical contact 410 may not move to be electrically coupled to power source connection 420 when an object is inserted into an opening corresponding to first electrical contact 410. Such a receptacle may be safer to operate because first electrical contact 410 remains electrica!iy isolated until a uniform force is applied to both first electrical contact 410 and second electrical contact 430. In such examples, a child may be less likely to be able to apply a uniform force to both first electrical contact 410 and second electrical contact 430. Rattier, a uniform force may be received from a plug with at least two prongs inserted into the openings of such a receptacle.

[0050] In some examples, receptacle 400 may receive a uniform force applied to first electrical contact 410 and second electrical contact 430. In such examples, receptacle 400 may transfer the received force to move first electrical contact 410 to electrically couple to power source connection 420. In examples, receptacle 400 may not move first electrical contact 410 to electrically couple to power source connection 420 when a non-uniform force is received at first electrical contact 410 and second electrical contact 430. For example, in response to a force applied to first electrical contact 410 and not applied to second electrical contact 430, receptacle 400 may not transfer sufficient force to move first electrical contact 410 to be electrically coupled to power source connection 420, as depicted in FIG. 5d. FIG. 5d is a side view of receptacle 400 of FIGs. 4a-4c. In the example of FIG. 5d, an object 7 is inserted into an opening of receptacle 400 corresponding to first electrical contact 410. In the example of FIG. 5d, hinge assembly 450 may receive the force applied to first electrical contact 410. In such an examples, hinge assembly 450 may allow first electrical contact 410 to move a distance less than the specific distance in response to the force applied by object 7.

[0091] In examples, hinge assembly 450 may be any mechanical or electrical component to receive the force applied to first electrical contact 410 and/or second electrical contact 430. In examples, hinge assembly 450 may transfer the received force to a! tow first electrica! contact 410 to electrically couple to power source connection 420. in examples, hinge assembly 450 may be a spring or a spring assembly with a spring constant sufficient to allow first electrical contact 410 to moveabiy couple to power source connection 420 when a sufficient uniform force is applied to first electrical contact 410 and second electrical contact 430. In other examples, hinge assembly 450 may be an electrical circuit to determine whether a sufficient uniform force has been applied to first electrical contact 410 and second electrical contact 430 and to allow first electrical contact 410 to electrically couple to power source connection 420 when sufficient uniform force is received. In examples, hinge assembly 450 is to prevent first electrical contact 410 from moving from the first position to the second position in response to a non-uniform force applied to first electrical contact 410 and second electrical contact 430. In another example, hinge assembly 450 is to prevent first electrical contact 410 from moving from the first position to the second position in response to a force applied to first electrical contact 410 and not applied to second electrical contact 430.

[0052] FIG. 6 illustrates a flowchart of a method 600 for providing power via a receptacle according to an example. Although execution of method 600 is described betow with reference to receptacle 100 described above, other suitable systems for the execution of method 600 can be utilized. Additionally, implementation of method 600 is not limited to such examples.

[0053] At 602 of method 600, receptacle 100 electrically isolates first electrical contact 110 from power source connection 120 with insulation layer 113.

[0054] At 604, receptacle 100 determines whether a force is received to move first electrical contact 110 a specific distance. In some examples, hinge assembly 150 is disposed to receive the force applied to first electrical contact 110 and second electrical contact 130 to determine whether sufficient uniform force is received to move first electrical contact 110 at least the specific distance.

[0055] At 606, receptacle 100 electrically couples first electrical contact 110 to power source connection 120 in response to a uniform force applied to first electrical contact 110 and second electrical contact 130.

[0056] While certain implementations have been shown and described above, various changes in form and details may be made. For example, some features mat have been described in relation to one implementation and/or process can be related to other implementations. In other words, processes, features, components, and/or properties described in relation to one implementation can be useful in other implementations. Furthermore, it should be understood that the systems, apparatuses, and methods described herein can include various combinations and/or sub^combinations of the components and/or features of the different implementations described. Thus, features described with reference to one or more implementations can be combined with other implementations described herein.

[0057] The above discussion is meant to be illustrative of the principles and various examples of the present disclosure. Numerous variations and modifications will become apparent to those skilled in the art once the above disclosure is fully appreciated, it is intended that the following claims be interpreted to embrace aii such variations and modifications.

Claims

VVrtat ls flairhed is:

1. A receptacle, comprising:

a first electrical contact, to electrically couple to a first prong, moveably coupled to a power source;

an insulation layer disposed to electrically isolate the first electrical contact from the power source in a first position; and

a second electrical contact to couple to a second prong,

wherein the first electrical contact is moved from the first position to a second position in response to a force applied uniformly to the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact and the first electrical contact is electrically coupled to the power source in the second position.

2. The receptacle of claim 1 , wherein the second position is reached when the first electrical contact is moved a specific distance.

3. The receptacle of claim 1 , further comprising:

a power source connection coupled to the power source and moveably coupled to the first electrical contact

4. The receptacle of claim 3, wherein the insulation layer is disposed on the first electrical contact

5. The receptacle of claim 3, wherein the insulation layer is disposed on the power source connection.

6. Hie receptacle of claim 1 , further comprising: a hinge assembly to receive the force applied to the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact and to transfer the force to move the first electrical contact from the first position to the second position.

7. The receptacle of claim 6, wherein the hinge assembly is to prevent the first electrical contact from moving from the first position to the second position in response to a non-uniform force applied to the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact.

8. The receptacle of claim 6, wherein the hinge assembly is to prevent the first electrical contact from moving from the first position to the second position in response to a force applied to the first electrical contact and not applied to the second electrical contact.

9. A receptacle, comprising: a first electrical contact to electrically connect to a first prong, moveably coupled to a power source connection; an insulation layer disposed to electrically isolate the first electrical contact from the power source connection in a first position; a second electrical contact to couple to a second prong; and a hinge assembly to receive a force applied to the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact and to transfer a force uniformly applied to the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact to move the first electrical contact from the first position to a second position to electrically couple the first electrical contact to the power source connection.

10. The receptacle of claim 9, wherein the second position is reached when the first electrical contact is moved a specific distance. i 1. Hie receptacle of claim 10, wherein the specific distance is less than the length of a prong of a plug.

12. The receptacle of claim 9, wherein the insulation layer is disposed on the power source connection.

13. The receptacle of claim 9, wherein the insulation layer is disposed on the first electrical contact.

14. A method for providing power via a receptacle, comprising: electrically isolating a first electrical contact of the receptacle from a power source connection with an insulation layer; determining whether a force & received to move first electrical contact a specific distance; and electrically coupling the first electrical contact to the power source connection in response to a uniform force applied to the first electrical contact and a second electrical contact

15. The method of claim 14, wherein the first electrical contact is electrically isolated from the power source connection until the first electrical contact has traveled the specific distance.