Method for facilitating the connection of electrical cables to electrical / electronic components arranged in an electrical enclosure and an electrical enclosure
The removable gland plate and reinforcement assembly system addresses cable alignment and management issues in electrical enclosures by enabling easy external assembly, ensuring secure cable fit and enclosure rigidity, thus simplifying maintenance and reducing costs.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- AU2025271508
- Authority / Receiving Office
- AU · AU
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2024-12-19
- Filing Date
- 2025-11-28
- Publication Date
- 2026-07-09
AI Technical Summary
Existing electrical enclosures face challenges in aligning cable routing due to fixed pre-formed holes, leading to cable management difficulties, and the need for multiple specialized gland plates complicates installation and maintenance, especially for large and rigid cables.
A removable gland plate and reinforcement assembly system that allows easy access from the outside for assembly and disassembly, featuring interchangeable gland plates and reinforcement edges, ensuring secure cable fit and enclosure rigidity.
Facilitates easy cable management and maintenance, reduces downtime, and maintains enclosure integrity, while providing cost savings through modular design and protection against environmental factors.
Smart Images
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Abstract
Description
[0001] The present invention relates to the field of residential and tertiary electrical equipment and more particularly to electrical enclosures with electrical cables connected to electric / electronic components arranged in such electrical enclosures. The object of the invention is a method for facilitating the connection of electrical cables to electrical / electronic components arranged in an electrical enclosure and an electrical enclosure. Such an electronic enclosure allows the implementation of the method according to the present invention.
[0002] We are already familiar with electrical enclosures that have a fixed upper and / or bottom side with pre-formed holes for cable entry, designed to facilitate the installation and connection of electrical components within the enclosure said cables. The upper or bottom side of the enclosure is a single piece with multiple openings of various dimensions to accommodate different cable sizes. However, the fixed positions of the pre-formed holes may not always align perfectly with the required cable routing, leading to difficulties in cable management and organization. Additionally, the presence of multiple openings, even with different dimensions, may not always match the specific sizes of the cables being used. Furthermore, the fixed bottom side can limit flexibility in the placement of cables within the enclosure.
[0003] The document US3584136 describes an electrical control system that includes a housing with a removable cover and a gland plate. The gland plate has pre-formed knockouts plugs that can be removed to create openings for cables to pass through. In addition, the gland plate is described as being pivotally mounted. However, the pivot mechanism may wear out over time, leading to reduced stability and potential misalignment. This can complicate the secure routing and connection of cables, especially if the gland plate does not stay in the desired position. Furthermore, the pivoting movement of the gland plate might inadvertently disturb already connected cables, causing disconnections or damage to the cable insulation. Another drawback is the lack of rigidity in the enclosure once the plate is pivoted. 2025271508 28 Nov 2025
[0004] The document US20200091694 describes an electrical panel device designed to facilitate the installation and connection of electrical components within an enclosure. The electrical panel device includes top and bottom panels (gland plates) with multiple openings for cable entry, and modular components that can be easily attached or detached. The top and bottom panels are fastened to the electrical panel (electrical enclosure) with removable fasteners such as screws. However, the top and bottom panels are mounted and dismounted from the inside of the enclosure and are to be secured by screws that are accessible only from the interior of the electrical panel. The need to access the screws from the inside of the enclosure can make the installation and removal process more cumbersome, especially in tight or confined spaces. Secondly, the screws may become difficult to reach if other components are already installed within the enclosure, potentially requiring the removal of other parts to access the screws. In addition, access to the screws from inside the enclosure requires opening the enclosure. In addition, the front edge of the opening can obstruct the passage and routing of cables, particularly wide and rigid ones, complicating installation and maintenance processes.
[0005] The purpose of the present invention is to overcome these drawbacks.
[0006] In the context of the present specification, the term “removable” is to be understood as referring to an element that is detachably connected, i.e., it can be attached and detached repeatedly without damage to the parts involved.
[0007] At this end, the present invention has for its object a method for facilitating the connection of electrical cables to electrical / electronic components arranged in an electrical enclosure, the electrical enclosure comprising an enclosure and electrical / electronic components, said enclosure having a generally rectangular parallelepiped shape and comprising an open front side with a main opening allowing main access into the enclosure, a rear side that can serve as a support for the electrical / electronic components in the enclosure, a bottom side and a top side at least one of which has a cable entry opening closed by a removable gland plate with holes allowing the passage of cables and two lateral sides, wherein at least one of the bottom and top sides with a cable entry opening further comprises a removable front reinforcement edge common with the front side by delimiting both the main opening and said cable entry opening and forming, with the associated removable gland plate closing said cable entry opening, a removable gland plate and reinforcement assembly and in 2025271508 28 Nov 2025 that the method consists of performing, by operating essentially from the outside of the enclosure, the following successive steps to connect cables to the electrical / electronic components arranged in the enclosure passing through the concerned bottom or top side :
[0008] - i) disassembling at choice,
[0009] the removable gland plate and reinforcement assembly to remove from the enclosure, together or separately, the removable gland plate and the removable front reinforcement edge,
[0010] or only the removable gland plate to remove from the enclosure only the removable gland plate,
[0011] - ii) passing the cables through the holes of the removed gland plate or directly through the entry opening freed from the gland plate,
[0012] - iii) connecting the cables to the electrical / electronic components arranged in the enclosure, - iv) if the cables pass directly through the cable entry opening : optionally, reassemble only the removable front reinforcement edge,
[0013] if the cables pass through the removable gland plate: reassemble, depending on the choice of step i), the removable gland plate and reinforcement assembly.
[0014] The present invention has also for its object an electrical enclosure comprising an enclosure and electrical / electronic components, said enclosure having a generally rectangular parallelepiped shape and comprising an open front side with a main opening allowing main access into the enclosure, a rear side that can serve as a support for electrical / electronic components in the enclosure, a bottom side and a top side at least one of which has a cable entry opening closed by a removable gland plate pierced with holes allowing the passage of cables and two lateral sides, wherein at least one of the bottom and top sides with a cable entry opening further comprises a removable front reinforcement edge common with the front side delimiting both the main opening and the cable entry opening and forming, with the associated removable gland plate closing the cable entry opening, a removable gland plate and reinforcement assembly allowing, at choice, by operating essentially from the outside of the enclosure : 2025271508 28 Nov 2025
[0015] either to remove from the enclosure, together or separately, the removable gland plate and the removable front reinforcement edge and to reassemble them together or separately or to reassemble only the removable front reinforcement edge,
[0016] or to remove only from the enclosure the removable gland plate while keeping the removable front reinforcement edge in place.
[0017] Such an invention, and more particularly such a removable gland plate and reinforcement assembly, it is easy to connect cables to the components arranged in the enclosure, even if the enclosure is already mounted on a wall, especially big diameter / large and / or rigid cables, hard to bend and operate. In a configuration where the removable edge is absent from the enclosure, the cables can be inserted from the front side with ease. In addition, the possibility of maintaining the removable edge in the enclosure or the possibility to reassemble the removable edge after the insertion of the cables means that the rigidity of the housing can be maintained while the cable gland plate is absent.
[0018] The invention will be better understood from the following description, which relates to a preferred embodiment, given by way of non-limiting example, and explained with reference to the annexed schematic drawings, in which:
[0019] [Fig. 1] is a perspective view of an electrical enclosure according to the present invention, with the open front side showing the inside of the enclosure, whose gland plate on the bottom side has been removed, while the removable front reinforcing edge on the same side has been kept in place,
[0020] [Fig. 2] is a perspective view of the bottom side of the electrical enclosure shown in figure 1, with the open front side closed,
[0021] [Fig. 3] is a partial view of the electrical enclosure shown in figure 1, showing a removable gland plate and reinforcement assembly during assembly or disassembly from / to the corresponding side of the enclosure,
[0022] [Fig. 4] is a partial view of the electrical enclosure shown in figure 1, showing a removable gland plate and reinforcement assembly during assembly or disassembly from / to the corresponding side of the enclosure, with a view other than that shown in figure 3, 2025271508 28 Nov 2025
[0023] [Fig. 5] is a partial view of the electrical enclosure shown in Figure 1, showing a removable gland plate and reinforcement assembly during its assembly to the enclosure, with the removable gland plate traversed by cables intended to be connected to the electrical / electronic components arranged in the enclosure,
[0024] [Fig. 6] is a perspective view of the lower side of the electrical enclosure shown in figure 1,
[0025] [Fig. 7] is a perspective and exploded view of a removable gland plate and reinforcement assembly,
[0026] [Fig. 8] is a perspective assembled view of the removable gland plate and reinforcement assembly shown in figure 7.
[0027] The annexed figures each shows, at least in part, an electrical enclosure, of the present invention, comprising an enclosure 1 and electrical / electronic components Co, said enclosure 1 having a generally rectangular parallelepiped shape and comprising an open front side 1a with a main opening 10a allowing main access into the enclosure 1, a rear side 1b that can serve as a support for electrical / electronic components Co in the enclosure 1, a bottom side 1c and a top side 1d. At least one of the bottom side 1c and top side 1d has a cable entry opening 10c, 10d closed by a removable gland plate 2 pierced with holes (or openings) 2a allowing the passage of cables C, in particular the passage of a cable C through each holes 2a, and two lateral sides 1e, 1f. Figure 1 shows such an enclosure, with the bottom and top sides 1c, 1d each having such a cable entry opening 10c, 10d.
[0028] The removable gland plate 2 can feature holes 2a of various sizes to allow for the passage of cables of different diameters, accommodating a wide range of cable types and sizes within the same enclosure 1. Each hole 2a or the holes 2a with varied sizes ensure that each cable C is securely held in place in the corresponding hole 2a, reducing the risk of movement or damage. This secure fit helps maintain the integrity of the cable C connections, preventing issues such as loose connections or cable C strain, which can lead to system failures or reduced performance. The use of a removable gland plate with varied opening sizes also provides cost savings, as it eliminates the need for multiple specialized plates, reducing inventory requirements and simplifying the procurement process. 2025271508 28 Nov 2025
[0029] It is understood that open front side 1a can be open and secured with a door or cover 1’ shown in figure 2. Such a door or cover 1’ can be removable and can be fastened by removable fasteners, such as screws screwed in fixing holes 12a in the front side 1a of the enclosure 1. In a variant not shown, such a door or cover 1’ can be hinged or sliding mount.
[0030] The or each removable gland plate 2 facilitates the organized routing of cables C into and out of the enclosure 1. The or each removable gland plate 2 is preferably designed to maintain an enclosure's protection level against dust, moisture, or other environmental factors.
[0031] Typical electrical / electronic components Co in this type of electrical enclosure may include components amongst, for example, circuit breakers, relays, terminal blocks, transformers, communication modules, power supplies, and programmable logic controllers (PLCs). These components can be designed for the distribution and management of electrical power, as well as for the control and monitoring of electrical systems.
[0032] According the present invention, at least one of the bottom and top sides 1c, 1d with a cable entry opening 10c, 10d further comprises a removable front reinforcement edge 3 common with the front side 1a delimiting both the main opening 10a and the cable entry opening 10c, 10d. Figure 1 shows such an enclosure 1, with the bottom and top sides 1c, 1d each having such a removable front reinforcement edge 3.
[0033] The removable front reinforcement edge 3 forms, with the associated removable gland plate 2 closing the cable entry opening 10c, 10d, a removable gland plate and reinforcement assembly 2, 3 allowing, at choice by operating essentially from the outside of the enclosure 1:
[0034] - either to remove from the enclosure 1, together or separately, the removable gland plate 2 and the removable front reinforcement edge 3 and to reassemble them together or separately or to reassemble only the removable front reinforcement edge 3 (figure 1),
[0035] - or to remove only from the enclosure the removable gland plate 2 while keeping the removable front reinforcement edge 3 in place. 2025271508 28 Nov 2025
[0036] The term “by operating essentially from the outside the enclosure 1” means that the disassembly or assembly action, such as screwing or unscrewing, by the user is performed outside the enclosure 1, i.e. outside the internal space of the enclosure 1 in which the components Co are arranged. Fixing the gland plate and reinforcement assembly 2, 3, together or separately, by operating essentially from the outside of the enclosure 1 offers several advantages. It provides ease of access, allowing technicians to secure the assembly without opening enclosure 1, which simplifies installation and maintenance. It enhances safety by preventing exposure to internal components and potential hazards, and it minimizes downtime by reducing the need to power down the system. It also maintains the integrity of the enclosure's internal environment, protecting sensitive components. Additionally, it is cost-effective, reducing labor costs and maintenance time.
[0037] The or each removable gland plate and reinforcement assembly 2, 3 then comprises the corresponding removable front reinforcement edge 3 and the gland plate 2 associated. As will be seen later, such a removable gland plate and reinforcement assembly 2, 3 may also include fastening means for removably attaching the assembly 2, 3 to the enclosure 1 and for removably attaching / joining together the corresponding removable front reinforcement edge 3 and the gland plate 2 associated.
[0038] The removable front reinforcement edge 3 offers several advantages in addition to the removal of the gland plate 2. It provides additional structural support to the enclosure 1, ensuring that the enclosure 1 maintains its rigidity and stability even when the gland plate 2 is removed (figures 1 and 6). This is particularly important for maintaining the integrity of the enclosure 1 during maintenance or modifications. In addition, the reinforcement edge 3 helps to protect the cables C and internal components Co from external factors. By reinforcing the front side 1a of the enclosure 1 (or of the electrical enclosure), it acts as a barrier against physical damage, thereby enhancing the overall durability and reliability of the electrical enclosure. Furthermore, the removable nature of the front reinforcement edge 3 allows for greater flexibility in accessing and managing the cables C and components Co within the enclosure 1. As will be seen later, it can be easily detached / disassembled and reattached / reassembled as needed, facilitating quick and efficient maintenance.
[0039] The removable gland plate and reinforcement assembly 2, 3 therefore offers several significant advantages. It provides a modular and flexible solution for cable C 2025271508 28 Nov 2025 management within the enclosure 1. The ability to remove and reassemble the gland plate 2 and reinforcement edge 3 independently or together allows for easy access to the cables C and components Co, facilitating quick modifications, maintenance, and upgrades. In addition, this removable gland plate and reinforcement assembly 2, 3 enhances the structural integrity and protection of the enclosure 1. The reinforcement edge 3, as seen above, adds rigidity and stability to the enclosure 1, ensuring that it remains robust even when the gland plate 2 is removed. This is important for maintaining the enclosure's integrity during operations that require frequent access to the internal components Co.
[0040] According to a particular characteristic of the invention, as shown in figures 1 to 8, the or each removable gland plate and reinforcement assembly 2, 3 can comprise first fastening elements 4, such as assembly screws, each ensuring a detachable connection between the or each removable gland plate and reinforcement assembly 2, 3, or the or each removable front reinforcement edge 3, and the enclosure 1. At this end the enclosure 1 can further comprise a corresponding external fixing part 1c, 1d, preferably an external fixing part extending on the front side 1a of the enclosure 1. Each fastening elements 4 can be fixed along a first fixing axis X1 to said external fixing part. The first fixing axis X1 is preferably substantially perpendicular to the open front side 1a of the enclosure 1. This feature offers several advantages: The use of first fastening elements 4, like assembly screws, more particularly by operating essentially them from outside of the enclosure 1, allows for quick and easy assembly and disassembly of the gland plate 2 and reinforcement edge 3. This facilitates maintenance, modifications, and upgrades without requiring specialized tools or extensive labor for the user. It also offers modularity, enabling the independent removal and reattachment of the gland plate 2 and the reinforcement edge 3. These fastening elements 4 ensure a secure and stable connection along the first fixing axis X1. The ability to detach and reattach easily the gland plate 2 and reinforcement edge 3 simplifies cable management. and reduces the time and labor costs associated with maintenance and repairs.
[0041] Preferably, as shown in Figures 3, 4 and 5, the or each external fixing part extending on the front side 1a of the enclosure 1 can consist of two fixing ears 11a located respectively in the two lower or upper corners of the front side 1a of the enclosure 1. This feature offers several advantages. Positioning the fixing ears 11a in the corners of the front side 1a provides enhanced stability and support for the entire 2025271508 28 Nov 2025 enclosure 1. The corners are structurally strong points, which helps in distributing the load and stresses more evenly, thereby maintaining the integrity of the enclosure 1. The placement of fixing ears 11a in the corners of the enclosure 1 also allows for easier access during assembly and disassembly, which facilitates quicker maintenance, as the screws / fastening elements 4 are more accessible and do not interfere with the central components of the enclosure. It also helps in optimizing the internal space of the enclosure 1. The corner placement of fixing ears 11a is also a cost-effective solution.
[0042] Preferably, as it can also be seen on figures 1 to 8, the or each removable gland plate and reinforcement assembly 2, 3 can comprises second fastening elements 5, such as assembly screws, each ensuring a detachable connection between the removable gland plate 2 and the removable front reinforcement edge 3 of the or each removable gland plate and reinforcement assembly 2, 3. Each fastening elements 5 can be fixed along a second fixing axis X2. While the first fastening elements secure the entire gland plate and reinforcement assembly 2, 3 to the enclosure 1, the second fastening elements allow for the independent removal of the gland plate 2 from the front reinforcement edge 3. Users can choose to remove only the gland plate 2. This modularity reduces the need to disassemble the entire assembly. It enables the user to remove the gland plate 2 quickly and easily, in particular without detaching the front reinforcing edge 3, so as not to compromise the structural integrity or rigidity provided by the front reinforcing edge 3.
[0043] Preferably, the second fixing axis X2 is perpendicular to the first fixing axis X1. By fixing first and second fastening elements along two perpendicular axes X1, X2, the load and forces acting on the gland plate 2 and reinforcement edge 3 are better distributed.
[0044] According to another particular characteristic of the invention, as shown more particularly in figures 3, 5, 7 and 8, the removable gland plate 2 of the or each removable gland plate and reinforcement assembly 2, 3 can further comprise at least one interlocking part 2b, preferably a male interlocking part, and the enclosure 1 further comprises at least one counterpart part 6, preferably a receiving part forming a female interlocking part, preferably located in the rear side 1b of the enclosure 1 substantially at the level of the concerned bottom or top side 1c, 1d, ensuring, by mutual interaction between the interlocking part(s) 2b and the counterpart(s) 6 along an interlocking axis X3, preferably substantially parallel to the first fixing axis X1, a detachable connection 2025271508 28 Nov 2025 between the removable gland plate 2 and the enclosure 1. The interlocking part 2b can be male and the receiving part 6 can be female or vice versa. Preferably, as show, in figures 3, 4, 6, 7 and 8, the or each interlocking part 2b can comprises an interlocking fin 20b forming a male interlocking element and the or each counterpart 6 can comprise an interlocking slot 6a forming a female interlocking part receiving the or one of the interlocking fin(s) 20b.
[0045] The combination of this interlocking mechanism 2b, 6 and the first and second fastening elements 4, 5 ensures a highly secure and stable connection. The interlocking part 2b and receiving part 6 provide a snug fit, while the first fastening elements (such as screws 4) add an extra layer of security, preventing any unintended disassembly or movement of the gland plate 2 with regard to the enclosure 1. This interlocking mechanism provides initial alignment and support, while the fastening elements 4, 5 ensure that the gland plate 2 and reinforcement edge 3 remain firmly in place, reducing the risk of deformation or damage under load or vibration. This interlocking mechanism simplifies the initial alignment and positioning of the gland plate and reinforcement assembly 2, 3, making it easier to secure with the first fastening elements 5. The malefemale interlocking design provides guided alignment during assembly, ensuring that the gland plate 2, and therefore the gland plate and reinforcement assembly 2, 3, is correctly positioned and securely attached to the receiving part 6. The first fastening elements 5 then lock the gland plate and reinforcement assembly 2, 3 in place.
[0046] If we now refer in particular to Figures 1, 3, 5, 6, 7 and 8, we can see that, in a preferred form, the or each removable front reinforcement edge 3 can have a straight U-shaped or L-shaped cross-section. Preferably, the straight U-shaped or L-shaped cross-section can define a first assembly wing 3a and a second assembly wing 3b perpendicular to the first assembly wing 3a. The first assembly wing 3a can be removably fixed to the external fixing part of the enclosure 1 by means of the first fastening elements 4 and the second assembly wing 3b can be removably fixed to the corresponding removable gland plate 2 by means of the second fastening elements 5.
[0047] Preferably, the first assembly wing 3a can comprise fixing holes 30a allowing the first fastening elements 4 to freely pass through and be fixed in the external fixing part of the enclosure 1. 2025271508 28 Nov 2025
[0048] Preferably, the or each gland plate 2 can comprise fixing holes 2b freely traversed by the second fastening elements 5 which are screwed onto the reinforcement edge 3.
[0049] The perpendicular arrangement of the fixing holes 30a and 2b for the first and second fastening elements 4, 5 (perpendicular axes X1, X2) offers several significant advantages. This configuration enhances structural stability and ensures secure and stable connections, maintaining the integrity of the gland plate 2 and reinforcement edge 3. The perpendicular axes X1, X2 facilitate easier assembly and disassembly, allowing technicians to quickly perform maintenance and modifications without complex procedures. This design is cost-effective, reducing the need for additional structural reinforcements, and offers greater versatility in configuration, allowing for tailored system management.
[0050] Such a U-shaped or L-shaped cross-section with perpendicular assembly wings 3a, 3b gives greater rigidity to the reinforcing edge and provides enhanced structural stability to the enclosure 1. This design ensures that the reinforcement edge 3 can effectively support and distribute mechanical stresses. This increased rigidity ensures that the enclosure 1 remains robust and secure, even when subjected to external forces or impacts, thereby protecting the internal components Co. The perpendicular arrangement of the assembly wings 3a, 3b allows for secure and stable connections using the first and second fastening elements 4, 5. This dual layer fastening system ensures that both the gland plate 2 and the reinforcement edge 3 remain firmly in place, maintaining the integrity / rigidity of the enclosure 1. The fixing holes 30a in the first assembly wing 3a and the fixing holes 2b in the gland plate 2 allow for easy passage of the fastening elements 4 and 5. This design simplifies the assembly and disassembly process, facilitating quicker maintenance and modifications without the need for specialized tools or complex procedures. The use of a U-shaped or L-shaped crosssection with fixing holes for the fastening elements 4, 5 can also lead to a more costeffective design. The fixing holes 30a and 2b provide guided alignment during assembly, ensuring that the fastening elements 4 and 5 are correctly positioned and securely attached. This feature reduces the risk of misalignment and ensures a precise fit, enhancing the overall stability and security of the enclosure 1.
[0051] In addition, the invention offers several advantages when the removable gland plate 2 and the removable front reinforcement edge 3 are removed in the application of 2025271508 28 Nov 2025 the electrical enclosure to a trunking system. Removing the gland plate 2 and the reinforcement edge 3 provides unobstructed access to the interior of the enclosure 1, facilitating the routing of cables from the trunking system directly into the enclosure 1. The ability to remove both the gland plate 2 and the reinforcement edge allows for easier access to the internal components of the enclosure 1 which is particularly beneficial in trunking applications where space may be limited, enabling technicians to perform maintenance, modifications, and upgrades more efficiently. Users can easily adapt the enclosure 1 to accommodate different cables C and configurations, providing a tailored solution for various installation requirements. The removal of the gland plate 2 and reinforcement edge 3 together or separately simplifies the installation process by allowing cables C to be fed directly from the trunking system into the enclosure 1 without the need for additional modifications or adjustments. This reduces installation time and effort, leading to cost savings and increased efficiency. By removing the gland plate 2 and reinforcement edge 3, the enclosure 1 can be seamlessly integrated with the trunking system, optimizing the use of available space. This integration ensures that the enclosure 1 and trunking system work together harmoniously, providing a compact and organized solution for cable management.
[0052] Preferably, the gland plate 2 can include a wing 2c extending perpendicularly from on one of its longitudinal edges (front edge) and which comes into abutment with the external face of the wing 3a of the reinforcement edge 3, as shown in figures 3 and 5 more particularly. This design increases rigidity, ensuring the enclosure 1 remains robust and secure. In addition, we can also see that the wing 2c of the gland plate 2 is shorter in length than the wing 3a of the reinforcement edge 3 to expose the fixing holes 30a. This specific design allows for easy access to the fixing holes 30a, facilitating the insertion and tightening of the first fastening elements 4.
[0053] It is understood that the removable gland plate 2 is securely fastened to the housing 1 when the removable gland plate 2 is attached to the removable front reinforcement edge 3 and when said removable front reinforcement edge 3 is securely fastened to the enclosure 1.
[0054] The present invention also concerns a method for facilitating the connection of electrical cables to electrical / electronic components arranged in such an electrical enclosure. The method consists of performing, by operating essentially from the outside of the enclosure 1, the following successive steps to connect cables C to the 2025271508 28 Nov 2025 electrical / electronic components Co arranged in the enclosure 1 passing through the concerned bottom or top side 1c, 1d:
[0055] - i) disassembling at choice
[0056] the removable gland plate and reinforcement assembly 2, 3 to remove from the enclosure, together or separately, the removable gland plate 2 and the removable front reinforcement edge 3,
[0057] or only the removable gland plate 2 to remove from the enclosure 1 only the removable gland plate 2,
[0058] - ii) passing cables C through the holes 2a of the removed gland plate 2
[0059] - iii) connecting cables C to the electrical / electronic components arranged in the enclosure 1.
[0060] - iv) if the cables C pass directly through the cable entry opening 10c, 10d: optionally, reassemble only the removable front reinforcement edge 3,
[0061] if the cables C pass through the removable gland plate 2: reassemble, depending on the choice of step i), the removable gland plate and reinforcement assembly 2, 3.
[0062] According to another particular characteristic of the invention in step i) it consists of disassembling:
[0063] - the removable gland plate and reinforcement assembly 2, 3 by removing from the enclosure 1, first fastening elements 4, such as assembly screws 4, each ensuring a detachable connection between the removable gland plate and reinforcement assembly 2, 3 and an external fixing part of the enclosure 1, preferably an external fixing part (as described above) extending on the front side 1a of the enclosure 1, and each being fixed along a first fixing axis X1 to said external fixing part,
[0064] - or only the removable gland plate 2 by removing from the (outside of) the enclosure 1 second fastening elements 5, such as assembly screws, ensuring a detachable connection between the removable gland plate 2 and the removable front reinforcement edge 3 by being fixed along a second fixing axis X2. 2025271508 28 Nov 2025
[0065] As already seen before in the description of the electrical enclosure shown in the annexed figures, the second fixing axis X2 can extend preferably substantially perpendicularly to the first fixing axis X1.
[0066] In such a method, the removable gland plate 2 of the or each removable gland plate and reinforcement assembly 2, 3 can further comprises, as described before, at least one interlocking part 2b, preferably a male interlocking part, and the enclosure 1 can further comprise at least one counterpart part 6, preferably a receiving part forming a female interlocking part, preferably located in the rear side 1b of the enclosure 1 substantially at the level of the concerned bottom or top side 1c, 1d, ensuring, by mutual interaction between the interlocking part(s) 2b and the interlocking counterpart(s) 6 along an interlocking axis X3, preferably substantially parallel to the first fixing axis X1, a detachable connection between the removable gland plate 2 and the receiving part 6 of the enclosure 1. The method can then consist in step i) of disassembling from the enclosure 1:
[0067] - the removable gland plate and reinforcement assembly 2, 3 by first removing from the enclosure 1 each first fastening element 4, then moving the removable gland plate and reinforcement assembly 2, 3, preferably in a direction perpendicular to the front side 1a of the enclosure 1, so as to remove the interlocking part 2b from the counterpart (receiving part) 6 of the enclosure 1,
[0068] - or only the removable gland plate 2 by first removing from the enclosure 1 each second fastening element 5 then moving the removable gland plate 2, preferably in a direction perpendicular to the front side 1a of the enclosure 1, so as to remove the interlocking part 2b from the counterpart (receiving part) 6 of the enclosure 1.
[0069] The invention offers numerous advantages, particularly in the context of managing large and rigid cables, especially in trunking applications. The removable gland plate 2 and reinforcement edge 3 provide easy access for routing these cables, simplifying installation and maintenance. This invention also creates a tighter seal around cable entry points, protecting internal components from dust, moisture, and other environmental factors, thus enhancing system reliability and lifespan. The reinforcement edge 3, when not removed, maintains the rigidity of the enclosure 1 (and the electrical enclosure), ensuring it remains robust and secure even under the strain of large and rigid cables. 2025271508 28 Nov 2025
[0070] Of course, the invention is not limited to the embodiment described and shown in the attached drawings. Modifications remain possible, in particular from the point of view of the constitution of the various elements or by substitution of technical equivalents, without departing from the scope of protection of the invention.
Claims
1. A method for facilitating the connection of electrical cables toelectrical / electronic components arranged in an electrical enclosure, the electrical enclosure comprising an enclosure (1) and electrical / electronic components (Co), said enclosure (1) having a generally rectangular parallelepiped shape and comprising an open front side (1a) with a main opening (10a) allowing main access into the enclosure (1), a rear side (1b) that can serve as a support for the electrical / electronic components (Co) in the enclosure (1), a bottom side (1c) and a top side (1d) at least one of which has a cable entry opening (10c, 10d) closed by a removable gland plate (2) with holes (2a) allowing the passage of cables (C) and two lateral sides (1e, 1f), wherein at least one of the bottom and top sides (1c, 1d) with a cable entry opening (10c, 10d) further comprises a removable front reinforcement edge (3) common with the front side (1a) by delimiting both the main opening (10a) and said cable entry opening (10c, 10d) and forming, with the associated removable gland plate (2) closing said cable entry opening (10c, 10d), a removable gland plate and reinforcement assembly (2, 3) and in that the method consists of performing, by operating essentially from the outside of the enclosure (1), the following successive steps to connect cables (C) to the electrical / electronic components arranged in the enclosure (1) passing through the concerned bottom or top side (1c, 1d):- i) disassembling at choice,the removable gland plate and reinforcement assembly (2, 3) to remove from the enclosure (1), together or separately, the removable gland plate (2) and the removable front reinforcement edge (3),or only the removable gland plate (2) to remove from the enclosure (1) only the removable gland plate (2),- ii) passing the cables (C) through the holes (2a) of the removed gland plate (2) or directly through the cable entry opening (10c, 10d) freed from the gland plate,- iii) connecting the cables (C) to the electrical / electronic components arranged in the enclosure (1),- iv)if the cables (C) pass directly through the cable entry opening (10c, 10d): optionally, reassemble only the removable front reinforcement edge (3),2025271508 28 Nov 2025if the cables (C) pass through the removable gland plate (2): reassemble, depending on the choice of step i), the removable gland plate and reinforcement assembly (2, 3).
2. A method according to claim 1, wherein in step i) it consists of disassembling: the removable gland plate and reinforcement assembly (2, 3) by removing from the enclosure (1) first fastening elements (4), such as assembling screws, each ensuring a detachable connection between the removable gland plate and reinforcement assembly (2, 3) and an external fixing part of the enclosure (1), preferably an external fixing part extending on the front side (1a) of the enclosure (1), and each being fixed along a first fixing axis (X1) to said external fixing part, or only the removable gland plate (2) by removing from the enclosure (1) second fastening elements (5), such as assembly screws, ensuring a detachable connection between the removable gland plate (2) and the removable front reinforcement edge (3) by being fixed along a second fixing axis (X2).
3. A method according to claim 2, wherein the second fixing axis (X2) extends substantially perpendicularly to the first fixing axis (X1).
4. A method according to any one of claims 2 to 3, wherein the removable gland plate (2) of the or each removable gland plate and reinforcement assembly (2, 3) further comprises at least one interlocking part (2b), preferably a male interlocking part, and the enclosure (1) further comprises at least one counterpart part (6), preferably a receiving part forming a female interlocking part, preferably located in the rear side (1b) of the enclosure (1) substantially at the level of the concerned bottom or top side (1c, 1d), ensuring, by mutual interaction between the interlocking part(s) (2b) and the interlocking counterpart(s) (6) along an interlocking axis (X3), preferably substantially parallel to the first fixing axis (X1), a detachable connection between the removable gland plate (2) and the receiving part (6) of the enclosure (1) and in that it consists in step i) of disassembling from the enclosure (1) :- the removable gland plate and reinforcement assembly (2, 3) by first removing from the enclosure (1) each first fastening element (4), then moving the removable gland plate and reinforcement assembly (2, 3), preferably in a direction perpendicular to the2025271508 28 Nov 2025front side (1a) of the enclosure (1), so as to remove the interlocking part (2b) from the counterpart (6) of the enclosure (1),- or only the removable gland plate (2) by first removing from the enclosure (1) each second fastening element (5) then moving the removable gland plate (2), preferably in a direction perpendicular to the front side (1a) of the enclosure (1), so as to remove the interlocking part (2b) from the counterpart (6) of the enclosure (1).
5. An electrical enclosure comprising an enclosure (1) and electrical / electronic components (Co), said enclosure (1) having a generally rectangular parallelepiped shape and comprising an open front side (1a) with a main opening (10a) allowing main access into the enclosure (1), a rear side (1b) that can serve as a support for electrical / electronic components (Co) in the enclosure (1), a bottom side (1c) and a top side (1d) at least one of which has a cable entry opening (10c, 10d) closed by a removable gland plate (2) pierced with holes (2a) allowing the passage of cables (C) and two lateral sides (1e, 1f),wherein at least one of the bottom and top sides (1c, 1d) with a cable entry opening (10c, 10d) further comprises a removable front reinforcement edge (3) common with the front side (1a) delimiting both the main opening (10a) and the cable entry opening (10c, 10d) and forming, with the associated removable gland plate (2) closing the cable entry opening (10c, 10d), a removable gland plate and reinforcement assembly (2, 3) allowing, at choice, by operating essentially from the outside the enclosure (1) : either to remove from the enclosure (1), together or separately, the removable gland plate (2) and the removable front reinforcement edge (3) and to reassemble them together or separately or to reassemble only the removable front reinforcement edge (3),or to remove only from the enclosure (1) the removable gland plate (2) while keeping the removable front reinforcement edge (3) in place.
6. An electrical enclosure according to claim 5, wherein the or each removable gland plate and reinforcement assembly (2, 3) comprises first fastening elements (4), such as first assembly screws, each ensuring a detachable connection between the or each removable gland plate and reinforcement assembly (2, 3), or the or each removable front reinforcement edge (3), and the enclosure (1) can further comprise a2025271508 28 Nov 2025corresponding external fixing part (1c, 1d), preferably an external fixing part extending on the front side (1a) of the enclosure (1), and each being fixed along a first fixing axis (X1) to said external fixing part, preferably substantially perpendicular to the open front side (1a) of the enclosure (1).
7. An electrical enclosure according to claim 6, wherein the or each external fixing part extending on the front side (1a) of the enclosure (1) consists of two fixing ears (11a) located respectively in the two lower or upper corners of the front side (1a) of the enclosure (1).
8. An electrical enclosure according to any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein the or each removable gland plate and reinforcement assembly (2, 3) comprises second fastening elements (5), such as assembly screws, each ensuring a detachable connection between the removable gland plate (2) and the removable front reinforcement edge (3) of the or each removable gland plate and reinforcement assembly (2, 3) and each being fixed along a second fixing axis (X2).
9. An electrical enclosure according to claim 8, wherein the second fixing axis (X2) is perpendicular to the first fixing axis (X1).
10. An electrical enclosure according to any one of claims 5 to 9, wherein the removable gland plate (2) of the or each removable gland plate and reinforcement assembly (2, 3) further comprises at least one interlocking part (2b), preferably a male interlocking part, and the enclosure (1) further comprises at least one counterpart part (6), preferably a receiving part forming a female interlocking part, preferably located in the rear side (1b) of the enclosure (1) substantially at the level of the concerned bottom or top side (1c, 1d), ensuring, by mutual interaction between the interlocking part(s) (2b) and the counterpart(s) (6) along an interlocking axis (X3), a detachable connection between the removable gland plate (2) and the enclosure (1).
11. An electrical enclosure according to claim 10, wherein the or each interlocking part (2b) comprises an interlocking fin (20b) forming a male interlocking element and2025271508 28 Nov 2025the or each counterpart (6) comprises an interlocking slot (6a) forming a female interlocking part receiving the or one of the interlocking fin(s) (20b).
12. An electrical enclosure according to any one of claims 10 to 11, each taken in combination with claim 6 or 9, wherein the interlocking axis (X3) is substantially parallel to the first fixing axis (X1).
13. An electrical enclosure according to any one of claims 5 to 12, wherein the or each removable front reinforcement edge (3) has a straight U-shaped or L-shaped cross-section.
14. An electrical enclosure according to claim 13 taken in combination with any one of claims 6 to 9, wherein the straight U-shaped or L-shaped cross-section defines a first assembly wing (3a) and a second assembly wing (3b) perpendicular to the first assembly wing (3a), the first assembly wing (3a) being removably fixed to the external fixing part of the enclosure (1) by means of the first fastening elements (4) and the second assembly wing (3b) being removably fixed to the corresponding removable gland plate (2) by means of the second fastening elements (5).
15. An electrical enclosure according to claim 14, wherein the first assembly wing (3a) comprises fixing holes (30a) allowing the first fastening elements (4) to freely pass through and be fixed in the external fixing part of the enclosure (1) and the or each gland plate (2) comprises fixing holes (2b) freely traversed by the second fastening elements (5) which are screwed onto the reinforcement edge (3).