decorative panel

The decorative panel addresses the aesthetic and maintenance issues of conventional outlets and switches with a seamless, flat design and reinforcing structure, enhancing durability and ease of cleaning.

JP7812989B2Active Publication Date: 2026-02-12EARTHQI DESIGN CO LTD
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Patent Information

Application Number
JP2024091031
Authority / Receiving Office
JP · JP
Patent Type
Patents
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2023-06-14
Filing Date
2024-06-04
Publication Date
2026-02-12
Estimated Expiration
2044-06-04

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Conventional electrical outlets and switches have noticeable seams and joints that detract from aesthetic appeal, collect dust and dirt, and are difficult to clean.

Method used

A decorative panel with seamless, flat surfaces and pre-holes for outlets and switches, featuring a frame that surrounds the electrical components and a reinforcing structure for durability, made from materials like plastic, metal, glass, and ceramic.

Benefits of technology

The decorative panel seamlessly integrates with interior designs, is easy to clean, and enhances durability and safety while maintaining a sophisticated appearance.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

Smart Images

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Patent Text Reader

Abstract

To provide a decoration panel that has a seamless, flat surface.SOLUTION: The present invention relates to a decoration panel designed for assembly with an outlet or a switch unit. The outlet includes a number of body slots, and the decoration panel has a number of pre-slot holes corresponding to each body slot. The surface of the decoration panel is seamless and flat. The decoration panel can be easily integrated into various interior design styles, providing an aesthetic solution that combines functionality with modern decorative preferences.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2A
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Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a decorative panel, and more particularly to a decorative panel having a seamless, flat surface. [Background technology]

[0002] An electrical outlet is a type of electrical device used to connect electrical devices to a power source. An outlet typically consists of a base, plug, pins, and a fuse. Outlets are classified into residential, industrial, and special-purpose types based on their shape, current capacity, and environmental use. Residential outlets are the most common and are mounted on walls and used to connect household electrical devices such as televisions, computers, refrigerators, air conditioners, and washing machines.

[0003] 1A to 1C, Fig. 1A shows a conventional outlet 10, Fig. 1B shows an outlet body 12, and Fig. 1C shows a housing panel 11. The housing panel 11 has a rectangular hole 11H into which a central rectangular portion 12A of the outlet body 12 fits. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] As modern aesthetics and interior design become increasingly important, every detail must be carefully considered. However, at the boundary 11J between the central rectangular portion 12A and the rectangular hole 11H, a step or noticeable seam can occur, which can detract from the overall aesthetic appeal. This joint can easily collect dust and dirt, making cleaning more difficult.

[0005] Therefore, an improved solution is needed that addresses these issues and simplifies maintenance while seamlessly integrating with the interior. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The present invention aims to provide a decorative panel that can be easily integrated into various interior design styles, and whose surface is clean and sophisticated, does not easily collect dust or dirt, and is easy to clean.

[0007] The decorative panel of the present invention is designed to be assembled with an outlet having multiple body slots, and the decorative panel itself has multiple pre-holes corresponding to each body slot to ensure a seamless and flat surface.

[0008] The edges of the decorative panel include a frame that surrounds the outlet, eliminating any parting lines or locking points, and the panel incorporates a reinforcing structure that contacts the top surface of the outlet, enhancing durability and structural integrity.

[0009] Another embodiment of the present invention provides a decorative panel designed for assembly with a switch unit having multiple buttons. The panel has pre-holes for each button and maintains a seamless, flat surface. Like the outlet version, the panel's edges include a frame that surrounds the switch unit, has no parting lines or locking points, and includes a reinforcing structure that contacts the top surface of the switch unit.

[0010] Decorative panels can be manufactured from materials such as plastic, metal, glass, and ceramic, each offering durability and aesthetic compatibility with a variety of interior designs. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] An advantage of the present invention is that it can seamlessly blend into a variety of interior designs and is easy to clean, providing both aesthetic appeal and practical functionality. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1A] A schematic diagram of an outlet 10 is shown. [Figure 1B]A schematic diagram of the main body portion 12 of the outlet is shown. [Figure 1C] A schematic view of a housing panel 11 is shown. [Figure 2A] 1 shows perspective views of a decorative panel 21 for an outlet from various angles. [Figure 2B] A perspective view of the outlet 22 is shown. [Figure 2C] A schematic diagram of a decorative panel 21 assembled to an outlet 22 is shown. [Figure 3A] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing another embodiment of the decorative panel 31. [Figure 3B] A perspective view of the outlet 32 ​​is shown. [Figure 3C] A schematic diagram of a decorative panel 31 assembled to an outlet 32 ​​is shown. [Figure 4A] A perspective view of a decorative panel 41 is shown. [Figure 4B] A perspective view of the switch unit 42 is shown. [Figure 4C] A schematic diagram of a decorative panel 41 assembled to a switch unit 42 is shown. [Figure 4D] A perspective view of the decorative panel 41 seen from another angle is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] 2A to 2C, FIG. 2A shows perspective views of decorative panel 21 from various angles, FIG. 2B shows perspective views of outlet 22, and FIG. 2C shows decorative panel 21 assembled to outlet 22.

[0014] In this embodiment, the decorative panel 21 is assembled to an outlet 22 that includes a plurality of body slots 22S. These body slots 22S function as an interface for providing electrical connections, allowing a plug to be inserted into the body slots 22S to supply power to an external electrical device.

[0015] The decorative panel 21 has a plurality of slot pre-holes 21H and a reinforcing structure 21R. Each slot pre-hole 21H corresponds to an individual main body slot 22S, allowing a plug to pass through and connect for power acquisition.

[0016] The decorative panel 21 can be made of materials such as plastic, metal, glass, and ceramic. Primarily, these panels are made of plastics such as flame-retardant ABS for cost-effectiveness and ease of manufacturing. Additionally, the surface of the decorative panel 21 can be electroplated to enhance the overall texture.

[0017] Additionally, high-quality decorative panels use metals such as copper and stainless steel for their increased durability and corrosion resistance. Design-oriented panels may also be manufactured from glass, known for its aesthetic appeal and excellent heat resistance. Additionally, some panels are made from ceramic, as this material has excellent fire resistance and insulating properties.

[0018] In this embodiment, the surface of the decorative panel 21 is seamless and flat, almost completely covering the outlet 22 except for the slotted holes 21H. This design is significantly smoother than the conventional outlet 10, adding a sophisticated look to interior décor. The simple and modern appearance of the decorative panel 21 blends seamlessly with various interior design styles, enhancing the aesthetic and fashionable appeal of the space. It not only meets the requirements of daily use, but also enriches the home décor experience for users.

[0019] Furthermore, the decorative panel 21 has an exquisite surface texture and pores, eliminating the unevenness found in the joints 11J of conventional outlets 10, making it less susceptible to dust and dirt accumulation, minimizing visible scratches, and facilitating cleaning and maintenance. The exquisite surface texture and pore design provide a more comfortable user experience and excellent tactile feedback.

[0020] 2C, the reinforcing structure 21R is located on the side of the decorative panel 21 facing the outlet 22 and surrounds the preliminary hole 21H. In this embodiment, the reinforcing structure 21R is in contact with the upper surface of the outlet 22. This arrangement effectively improves the overall strength of the decorative panel 21. Furthermore, even when an external force is applied, the decorative panel 21 is less susceptible to deformation or damage, significantly improving its durability and protective performance.

[0021] Additionally, each of the four sides of the decorative panel 21 includes a frame 21F, which surrounds the outlet 22. The top surface of the decorative panel 21 and each of the frames 21F have a matte texture design. It should be noted that maintaining the same matte texture on all sides is difficult because as the density of the matte material increases, the particles become larger, which can cause damage to the particles during release, resulting in a phenomenon known as "drag marks." Therefore, many prototypes are required to maintain the same matte pattern on all five sides.

[0022] Furthermore, the main purpose of the frames 21F is to beautify and protect the outlets 22 within the wall, making the decorative panel 21 look neater. The four frames 21F also provide certain safety protection functions, helping to prevent electric shock and short circuits.

[0023] 3A to 3C, FIG. 3A shows a perspective view of another embodiment of a decorative panel 31, FIG. 3B shows a perspective view of an outlet 32, and FIG. 3C shows the decorative panel 31 assembled to the outlet 32.

[0024] The decorative panel 31 is similarly assembled to the outlet 32, which includes a plurality of main body slots 32S that function as an interface for electrical connection. The decorative panel 31 also includes a plurality of pre-slot holes 31H, each corresponding to one of the main body slots 32S. Furthermore, the surface of the decorative panel 31 is seamless and flat. Therefore, the decorative panel 31 can be easily integrated into various interior design styles and is easy to clean.

[0025] The difference between decorative panels 31 and 21 lies in the arrangement of the slot pre-holes 31H. The arrangement of the three slot pre-holes 31H on decorative panel 31 is different from that on decorative panel 21, which can prevent a plug designed for decorative panel 31 from being inserted into decorative panel 21, and vice versa. Because the designs of decorative panels 31 and 21 are intended to meet different needs and application scenarios, the choice between decorative panel 31 and 21 should be based on the type of plug and its physical configuration.

[0026] 4A to 4C, FIG. 4A shows a perspective view of a decorative panel 41, FIG. 4B shows a perspective view of a switch unit 42, and FIG. 4C shows the decorative panel 41 assembled to the switch unit 42. While the decorative panels 21 and 31 are primarily applied to the outlets 22 and 32, respectively, in other embodiments, the decorative panels can also be applied to switches. The following describes in detail an embodiment applied to a switch. The decorative panel 41 is assembled to a switch unit 42 including multiple buttons 42S, and the decorative panel 41 includes button pre-holes 41H and reinforcing structures 41R. The button pre-holes 41H correspond to these buttons 42S. More specifically, the overall cross-sectional area of ​​the buttons 42S is approximately equal to the cross-sectional area of ​​the button pre-holes 41H. Furthermore, the buttons 42S are designed with aesthetic and functional considerations in mind to ensure a more refined appearance and excellent tactile feedback when pressed.

[0027] It is worth noting that the surface of the decorative panel 41 is also smooth and seamless, so that the decorative panel 41 can be easily integrated into various interior decoration styles and is easy to clean.

[0028] 4D, which is a perspective view showing the decorative panel 41 from another angle, the reinforcing structure 41R is located on the side of the decorative panel 41 facing the switch unit 42 and is in contact with the upper surface of the switch unit 42. This configuration makes the decorative panel 41 less susceptible to dents and damage, significantly improving its durability and protective performance.

[0029] In summary, the decorative panel of the present invention blends seamlessly into various interior decoration styles, and its surface is easy to clean as it does not easily collect dust or dirt. By transforming complexity into a simple, sophisticated and delicate design, it provides a unique product not available on the market, bringing additional benefits to the work of interior designers. [Explanation of symbols]

[0030] 10 Traditional Outlets 11H rectangular hole 11 Housing Panel 12 Outlet body 12A Central rectangular part 21, 31, 41 Decorative panels 21H slot spare hole 22,32 Outlet 41R reinforced structure 41H spare button hole 42 Switch unit 42S button

Claims

1. A decorative panel for assembly to an outlet having a plurality of body slots, comprising: The decorative panel is a plurality of slot pre-holes respectively corresponding to the body slots; a reinforcing structure provided on the rear surface of the decorative panel, arranged to surround each of the slot pre-holes, and in contact with the upper surface of the outlet around the corresponding main body slot; four-sided frames provided on four sides of the decorative panel and surrounding the outlet; Including, A decorative panel characterized in that the visible surface of the decorative panel opposite the back side is seamless, flat, and free of dividing lines or locking points, and covers the outlet except for the slot pre-hole.

2. A decorative panel to be attached to a switch unit having a plurality of buttons, The decorative panel is button preparation holes corresponding to the plurality of buttons, the cross-sectional areas of the button preparation holes being substantially the same as the cross-sectional areas of the corresponding plurality of buttons; a reinforcing structure provided on the rear surface of the decorative panel, arranged along the periphery of the button preparation hole, and in contact with the upper surface of the switch unit; four-sided frames provided on four sides of the decorative panel and surrounding the switch unit; Including, A decorative panel characterized in that the visible surface of the decorative panel opposite the back side is seamless and flat, and has no dividing lines or locking points.

3. 3. The decorative panel according to claim 1, wherein the material of the decorative panel is selected from the group consisting of plastic, metal, glass, and ceramic.

Citation Information

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