Modular Junction Box

Abstract

In accordance with the present disclosure, systems, methods, and articles of manufacture are provided for a modular junction box that includes integrated mating elements that are secured in place by, for example, attaching one or more adapters, connectors, or fittings.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] (Cross - reference to related applications) This application is a PCT international application claiming priority based on U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 509728, filed on October 25, 2021, entitled "Modular junction box". The above application is incorporated herein by reference.

Background Art

[0002] Junction boxes are used in various applications such as residential, commercial, and industrial piping and electrical wiring facilities. There are various types of junction boxes developed for a wide variety of applications, and in fact, many innovations in junction boxes often aim to provide advantages specific to the intended application. Among the designs of modular junction boxes, some are made to provide easier and more customizable installation options, but such designs often cannot provide the strength and reliability required for a wide variety of applications.

Summary of the Invention

Means for Solving the Problems

[0003] According to the present disclosure, there is provided a modular junction box including a female part defining at least one fitting slot, a male part defining at least one latch arm, and a modular adapter element disposed in a port formed by one or more of the female part and the male part, wherein at least one surface of the modular adapter is arranged to prevent the release of the connection between at least one latch arm and at least one fitting slot.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0004] Many of the embodiments described herein and their associated advantages will be readily apparent upon reference to the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0005] [Figure 1A] Figure 1A is an oblique cross-section of a modular junction box according to several embodiments. [Figure 1B] Figure 1B is a top view of a modular junction box according to several embodiments. [Figure 1C] Figure 1C is a bottom view of a modular junction box according to several embodiments. [Figure 1D] Figure 1D is a front view of a modular junction box according to several embodiments. [Figure 1E] Figure 1E is a rear view of a modular junction box according to several embodiments. [Figure 1F] Figure 1F is a left side view of a modular junction box according to several embodiments. [Figure 1G] Figure 1G is a right side view of a modular junction box according to several embodiments. [Figure 1H] Figure 1H is an assembly diagram of a modular junction box according to several embodiments. [Figure 1I] Figure 1I shows a partial assembly diagram of a modular junction box according to several embodiments. [Figure 1J] Figure 1J is a perspective cross-sectional view of a modular junction box according to several embodiments. [Figure 1K] Figure 1K is a cross-sectional view of a modular junction box according to several embodiments. [Figure 2A] Figure 2A is a perspective view of the female component of a modular junction box according to several embodiments. [Figure 2B] Figure 2B is a perspective assembly view of the female component of a modular junction box according to several embodiments. [Figure 2C] Figure 2C is a top-view perspective of the female component of a modular junction box according to several embodiments. [Figure 2D] Figure 2D is a downward perspective view of the female component of a modular junction box according to several embodiments. [Figure 3A] Figure 3A is a perspective view of the male component of a modular junction box according to several embodiments. [Figure 3B] Figure 3B is a perspective view of the male component of a modular junction box according to several embodiments. [Figure 3C] Figure 3C is a top-down perspective view of the male component of a modular junction box according to several embodiments. [Figure 3D] Figure 3D is a downward perspective view of the male component of a modular junction box according to several embodiments. [Figure 4A] Figure 4A is a perspective view of a modular junction box according to several embodiments. [Figure 4B] Figure 4B is a perspective cross-sectional view of a modular junction box according to several embodiments. [Figure 4C] Figure 4C is a perspective view of a modular junction box according to several embodiments. [Figure 5A] Figure 5A is a perspective view of a modular port adapter according to several embodiments. [Figure 5B] Figure 5B is a cross-sectional view of a modular port adapter according to several embodiments. [Figure 6A] Figure 6A is a perspective view of a modular port adapter according to several embodiments. [Figure 6B] Figure 6B is a cross-sectional view of a modular port adapter according to several embodiments. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0006] I. Introduction

[0007] The embodiments presented herein describe systems, apparatus, methods, and products for modular junction boxes. In some embodiments, the modular junction boxes of the present disclosure are assembled from a plurality of subcomponents or parts that are selectively and detachably coupled to one another to form a variety of ports through which cables, pipes, and / or other desired objects are routed. In some embodiments, some or all of the coupling and / or mating elements are secured in place by one or more modular port adapters that are attached to the various ports. In this way, for example, the modular junction boxes of the present disclosure can (i) be easily customized for a variety of installations, (ii) reduce the number of non-integrated fasteners (fastening elements) required (therefore enabling, for example, cost reduction, reduced possibility of loss of non-integrated fasteners (fastening elements), and / or shorten installation / maintenance time), and / or (iii) provide a securely coupled structure (therefore enabling, for example, reduced repair and failure).

[0008] A typical modular junction box is only modular in the sense that it is often assembled from two parts (usually an upper part and a lower part). Whether used in electrical wiring equipment (high voltage or low voltage), plumbing equipment, or drainage equipment, such a removable upper part (e.g., a drain pan in the case of drainage equipment) has a circular port on its side and a lid removable from the port, and the port provides access to the interior of the box where, for example, electrical wires, pipes, and / or other objects are terminated, joined, or split. Some junction boxes have pre-cut ports of a specific size, while others have multiple ports of various sizes (e.g., the installer (user) can choose which size conduit to use) and / or knockouts of various sizes (e.g., with a cut on the outer periphery to allow for selective punching out and / or removal at a predetermined part of the wall).

[0009] However, such conventional junction boxes have limited flexibility provided to the installer (user) because each box has a maximum number of ports / knockouts and each box has a predetermined size (usually a size tailored to a specific application, such as a size that fits between the typical stud frames of a residential wall). Conventional attempts to provide a more modular junction box generally have problems such as being less rigid, requiring complex non-integral fasteners (fastening elements), and / or being prone to unintended opening and disassembly.

[0010] The embodiments of the modular junction box of the present disclosure presented herein solve these and other problems of conventional junction box designs, enabling improved flexibility regarding installation options (and use), simple and reliable integrated modular connections, high rigidity, and a significant reduction in the possibility of unintentional disassembly. In some embodiments, for example, the modular junction box of the present disclosure includes female and male parts coupled to each other by a latching mechanism and modular port adapters attached to the box, and the coupling of the female and male parts is maintained by the modular port adapters. In some embodiments, the ports are distributed among and / or partially defined by various elements or portions of the junction box. Each port is formed in, or partially formed by, a first element (e.g., the female part) such that, for example, a portion of the port is defined by each element, or formed in, or partially formed by, a second element (e.g., the male part). In some embodiments, the split ratio of the port between the elements is designed to allow it to be held in a predetermined position when the modular port adapter is coupled to only the first element (e.g., to provide an easier assembly process). These and other advantageous features of the modular junction box of the present disclosure provided herein will be better understood by reference to the following description and the appended claims.

[0011] II. Modular Junction Box

[0012] Figures 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D, 1E, 1F, 1G, 1H, 1I, 1J, and 1K are perspective views, top views, bottom views, front views, rear views, left side views, right side views, assembly views, partial assembly views, perspective cross-sectional views, and cross-sectional views of modular junction boxes 100 according to several embodiments. The modular junction box 100 includes a plurality of fasteners 102 (see Figure 1H), which are used to connect one or more upper fastening elements 104 and one or more corresponding lower fastening elements 106 to each other, thereby forming a female component 110. The fastener 102 allows, for example, the upper female part 112 (first part; having an outer upper surface 112-1A, an inner upper surface 112-1B, an outer front surface 112-3A, an inner front surface 112-3B, an outer left side surface 112-5A, an inner left side surface 112-5B, an outer right side surface 112-6A, and an inner right side surface 112-6B) to be selectively and / or detachably coupled to the lower female part 114 (second part; having an outer lower surface 114-2A, an inner lower surface 114-2B, an outer front surface 114-3A, an inner front surface 114-3B, an outer left side surface 114-5A, an inner left side surface 114-5B, an outer right side surface 114-6A, and an inner right side surface 114-6B).

[0013] In some embodiments (as shown in the figures), the various outer surfaces 112-1A, 112-3A, 112-5A, 112-6A, 114-2A, 114-3A, 114-5A, and 114-6A of the upper female part 112 and the lower female part 114 are arranged linearly such that each surface is located in a plane perpendicular to the adjacent surfaces. In some embodiments, when an upper female part 112 is coupled, fitted, connected, and / or oriented with respect to a lower female part 114 (for example, to form a female part 110), (i) the outer upper surface 112-1A is positioned in a first plane parallel to a second plane on which the outer lower surface 114-2A is positioned; (ii) the outer front surfaces 112-3A, 114-3A are positioned in a third plane perpendicular to the first and second planes; (iii) the outer left sides 112-5A, 114-5A are positioned in a fourth plane parallel to a fifth plane on which the outer right sides 112-6A, 114-6A are positioned; and (iv) the fourth and fifth planes are perpendicular to the first, second, and third planes, respectively.

[0014] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 1H and 1I, the upper female part 112 and the lower female part 114 have fitting slots 116A to D formed on the inner upper surface 112-1B and the inner lower surface 114-2B. In some embodiments, the fitting slots 116A to D have a first recess 116-1 (first channel) and a second recess 116-2 (second channel) (see Figure 1I). The first recess 116-1 includes notches, grooves, channels, recesses, etc., formed (or otherwise provided) on the inner upper surface 112-1B and the inner lower surface 114-2B. In some embodiments, the first recess 116-1 includes a slot extending from a first end (i.e., the proximal end, or entrance end) of the upper female part 112 or the lower female part 114 to a second end (i.e., the distal end, or terminal end) at a predetermined distance from the first end, for example, a slot defining the length of the first recess 116-1. In some embodiments, the first recess 116-1 has a first depth ranging from, for example, 1 millimeter (1 mm) to the thickness of the upper female part 112 or the lower female part 114 minus 1 millimeter. In some embodiments, the first recess 116-1 includes portions having various depths of any feasible size (e.g., ranging from zero (0) to the full thickness of the upper female part 112 or the lower female part 114).

[0015] In some embodiments, the second recess 116-2 includes a portion of the first recess 116-1 that differs from the first recess 116-1 by one or more dimensions. The second recess 116-2 includes, for example, a portion of the length of the first recess 116-1 that has a second depth greater than or less than the first depth. In some embodiments (as shown in Figure 1I), the second depth is greater than the first depth, and the second recess 116-2 forms a further recess within the first recess 116-1 (for example, the overall depth of the first recess 116-1 is extended at the location of the second recess 116-2). In some embodiments, the second recess 116-2 is formed to a size, shape, and / or other shape that allows it to cooperatively fit with one or more other elements (not shown).

[0016] In some embodiments, the upper female part 112 has one or more concave mating surfaces 118A (first mating surfaces), and the concave mating surface 118A is formed to be sized and shaped so that it can be coupled, seated, and / or mated with a convex mating surface 118B (second mating surface) of the corresponding lower female part 114. In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 1H, 1I, and 1J, the concave mating surface 118A and the convex mating surface 118B have upper fastening elements 104 and lower fastening elements 106 that are aligned with each other when they are coupled. In a non-limiting example where the upper fastening element 104 and the lower fastening element 106 are threaded holes and the fastener 102 is a screw (as shown in Figure 1H), the threaded hole of the upper fastening element 104 is formed to extend through the upper female part 112 from its outer upper surface 112-1A to its concave fitting surface 118A. Similarly, the threaded hole of the lower fastening element 106 is formed to extend through the lower female part 114 from its convex fitting surface 118B to its outer lower surface 114-2A. In this way, the screw fastener 102 can be inserted through the screw holes of the upper fastening element 104 and the lower fastening element 106, which are aligned axially with each other, and is inserted through the upper female part 112 into the lower female part 114, thereby joining the upper female part 112 and the lower female part 114 together. This joining is reinforced by the concave mating surface 118A seating and / or fitting onto the convex mating surface 118B. In some embodiments (for example, as shown in Figure 1J), a gasket sheet portion 118-1 is provided to allow the attachment of gaskets, rings, and / or seals (not shown) that provide a waterproof and / or dustproof seal for the modular junction box 100 (for example, when all ports 130 are sealed by each adapter 140).

[0017] In some embodiments, a male component 120 can be formed by connecting one or more upper fastening elements 104 and one or more corresponding lower fastening elements 106 with a fastener 102. The fastener 102 allows, for example, the upper male component 122 (first component; having an outer upper surface 122-1A, an inner upper surface 122-1B, an outer rear surface 122-4A, an inner rear surface 122-4B, an outer left side surface 122-5A, an inner left side surface 122-5B, an outer right side surface 122-6A, and an inner right side surface 122-6B) to be selectively and / or detachably coupled to the lower male component 124 (second component; having an outer lower surface 124-2A, an inner lower surface 124-2B, an outer rear surface 124-4A, an inner rear surface 124-4B, an outer left side surface 124-5A, an inner left side surface 124-5B, an outer right side surface 124-6A, and an inner right side surface 124-6B).

[0018] In some embodiments (as shown in the figures), the various outer surfaces 122-1A, 122-4A, 122-5A, 122-6A, 124-2A, 124-4A, 124-5A, and 124-6A of the upper male part 122 and the lower male part 124 are arranged linearly such that each surface is located in a plane perpendicular to the adjacent surfaces. In some embodiments, when the upper male part 122 is coupled, fitted, connected, and / or oriented with respect to the lower male part 124, (i) the outer upper surface 122-1A is positioned in a first plane parallel to a second plane on which the outer lower surface 124-2A is positioned; (ii) the outer rear surfaces 122-4A and 124-4A are positioned in a sixth plane perpendicular to the first and second planes; (iii) the outer left sides 122-5A and 124-5A are positioned in a fourth plane parallel to a fifth plane on which the outer right sides 122-6A and 124-6A are positioned; and (iv) the fourth and fifth planes are perpendicular to the first, second, and sixth planes, respectively.

[0019] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 1H and 1I, the upper male part 122 and the lower male part 124 include mating arms or latch arms 126A-D formed on and / or coupled to the inner upper surface 122-1B and the inner lower surface 124-2B. In some embodiments, the latch arms 126A-D include elongated projections having a first latch surface 126-1, a second latch surface 126-2, and a latch arm back surface 126-3 (see Figure 1I). In some embodiments, the latch arms 126A-D extend from the upper male part 122 and the lower male part 124 along a first plane and a second plane, or parallel to the first plane and the second plane. The first and second latch arms 126A-B (and / or their rear surfaces 126-3) extend from and / or lie coplanar with the inner upper surface 122-1B of the upper male part 122. The third and fourth latch arms 126C-D (and / or their rear surfaces 126-3) extend from and / or lie coplanar with the inner lower surface 124-2B of the lower male part 124. In some embodiments, the latch arms 126A-D are formed to be sized and / or shaped so that they can seat, fit, and / or connect to each of the mating slots 116A-D of the female part 110. The length and / or width of the latch arms 126A-126D are formed to be sized and / or shaped so that they can fit into the first recess 116-1 of the corresponding mating slots 116A-D.

[0020] In some embodiments, the first latch surface 126-1 is configured to be able to seat, engage, and / or connect with the first recess 116-1, and the second latch surface 126-2 is configured to be able to seat, engage, and / or connect with the corresponding second recess 116-2. If the second latch surface 126-2 has a projection (e.g., an outward projection as shown) and the second recess 116-2 has a latch receiving portion, engaging the second latch surface 126-2 with the second recess 116-2 can prevent axial or planar disengagement between the male parts 122, 124 and the female parts 112, 114 connected thereto. In some embodiments, the latch arms 126A-D are configured to be elastically bendable, and by selectively bending the latch arms 126A-D inward, the engagement between the second latch surface 126-2 and the second recess 116-2 can be released, thereby selectively releasing the coupling between the female parts 112, 114 and the male parts 122, 124.

[0021] In some embodiments, the latch arms 126A-D have a first thickness between the first latch surface 126-1 and the latch arm back surface 126-3, and a second thickness between the second latch surface 126-2 and the latch arm back surface 126-3. In some embodiments, the first and second thicknesses are set such that when the latch arms 126A-D are seated and / or coupled to the corresponding mating slots 116A-D, the latch arm back surface 126-3 is coplanar with and / or coplanar with the inner upper surface 112-1B or the inner lower surface 114-2B. The first thickness of the latch arms 126A-D is set to be equal to the first depth of the first recess 116-1, and the second thickness of the latch arms 126A-D is set to be equal to the second depth of the second recess 116-2. In some embodiments, the latch arms 126A-D are otherwise formed to a size, shape, and / or other shape that conforms to and / or cooperates with the shape of the mating slots 116A-116D.

[0022] In some embodiments, the upper male component 122 has one or more concave mating surfaces 128A (first mating surfaces), and the concave mating surface 128A is formed to be sized and shaped so that it can be coupled, seated, and / or mated with a convex mating surface 128B (second mating surface) of the corresponding lower male component 124. In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 1H, 1I, and 1J, the concave mating surface 128A and the convex mating surface 128B have upper fastening elements 104 and lower fastening elements 106 that are aligned with each other when they are coupled. In a non-limiting example where the upper fastening element 104 and the lower fastening element 106 are threaded holes and the fastener 102 is a screw (as shown in Figure 1H), the threaded hole of the upper fastening element 104 is formed to extend through the upper male component 122 from its outer surface 122-1A to its concave mating surface 128A. Similarly, the threaded hole of the lower fastening element 106 is formed to extend through the lower male component 124 from its convex mating surface 128B to its outer lower surface 124-2A. In this way, the screw fastener 102 is inserted through the screw holes of the upper fastening element 104 and the lower fastening element 106, which are aligned axially with each other, and is inserted through the upper male part 122 into the lower male part 124, thereby connecting the upper male part 122 and the lower male part 124 to each other. This connection is reinforced by the concave fitting surface 128A seating and / or fitting onto the convex fitting surface 128B.

[0023] In some embodiments, the modular junction box 100 includes a plurality of ports 130 formed to penetrate one or more of the following faces 112-1A~B, 112-3A~B, 112-5A~B, 112-6A~B, 114-2A~B, 114-3A~B, 114-5A~B, 114-6A~B, 122-1A~B, 122-4A~B, 122-5A~B, 122-6A~B, 124-2A~B, 124-4A~B, 124-5A~B, 124-6A~B, and 124-6A~B (for example, each port 130 has a lip, an inner end, and / or an inner edge 132). If the modular junction box 100 has a six-sided square or rectangular box shape (as illustrated for non-limiting illustrative purposes), the modular junction box 100 includes and / or defines an upper port 130-1, a lower port 130-2, a front port 130-3, a rear port 130-4, a left port 130-5, and a right port 130-6. Although the ports 130 are shown having the same or similar diameters, the size, shape, and / or number of ports 130 may vary and / or be increased or decreased in various ways between the various faces 112-1A~B, 112-3A~B, 112-5A~B, 112-6A~B, 114-2A~B, 114-3A~B, 114-5A~B, 114-6A~B, 122-1A~B, 122-4A~B, 122-5A~B, 122-6A~B, 124-2A~B, 124-4A~B, 124-5A~B, and 124-6A~B. Due to the modular assembly of the modular junction box 100, the ports 130 are formed by combinations of 2 to 4 parts 112, 114, 122, and 124. For example, the upper port 130-1 is formed by an upper female component 112 and an upper male component 122, and the right port 130-6 is formed by an upper female component 112, a lower female component 114, an upper male component 122, and a lower male component 124.

[0024] In some embodiments, mating adapters or modular adapters 140A-D are coupled to and / or held by one or more ports 130. As illustrated for non-limiting illustrative purposes, the first adapter 140A is coupled to the front port 130-3, the second adapter 140B is coupled to the rear port 130-4, the third adapter 140C is coupled to the left port 130-5, and the fourth adapter 140D is coupled to the right port 130-6. In some embodiments, one or more ports 130 may not be coupled to adapters 140A-D, as shown for the upper port 130-1 and the lower port 130-2. In some embodiments, adapters 140A-D include fittings, adapters, joints, and / or other desired components of any type, configuration, size, or shape (e.g., one or more conduits, pipes, housings, joints, and / or components for connecting components (e.g., bundled cables)). In some embodiments, one or more of the adapters 140A to D are modularized themselves, for example, into first adapter portions 140A-1, 140B-1, 140D-1, and / or second adapter portions 140A-2, 140B-2, 140D-2, etc. Any or all of the adapters 140A to D may be configured by dividing them vertically or axially into, for example, first adapter portions 140A-1, 140B-1, 140D-1, and / or second adapter portions 140A-2, 140B-2, 140D-2. The first adapter portions 140A-1, 140B-1, 140D-1, and / or the second adapter portions 140A-2, 140B-2, 140D-2 are coupled, for example, to form adapter 140A-D, and / or uncoupled to disassemble adapter 140A-D for storage, transport, etc. In some embodiments, the first adapter portions 140A-1, 140B-1, 140D-1, and / or the second adapter portions 140A-2, 140B-2, 140D-2 can be maintained in a coupled state, a connected state, and / or a contact state by coupling adapters 140A-D to each port 130.By disassembling the modular junction box 100 and eliminating (removing) port 130, and by removing adapters 140A~D from port 130, the radial pressure or radial stop limit can be removed from adapters 140A~D, thereby allowing the first adapter sections 140A-1, 140B-1, 140D-1 and / or the second adapter sections 140A-2, 140B-2, 140D-2 to be uncoupled.

[0025] In some embodiments, adapters 140A to D, such as the third adapter 140C (shown as a blank or plug in non-limiting examples), are advantageously coupled and / or inserted into the modular junction box 100 in a manner that provides coupling integrity, as shown in Figures 1J and 1K. With respect to the third latch arm 126C that couples the lower female component 114 to the lower male component 124, the third latch arm 126C can be prevented from being discoupled from the lower female component 114 by arranging retaining elements such as the mounting flange 150 of the third adapter 140C. In some embodiments, the latch arm back surface 126C-3 of the third latch arm 126C is arranged on one or more of the first latch plane "A" and the second latch plane "B". In some embodiments, the first latch plane "A" is equal to or parallel to the second surface of the modular junction box 100, and / or coplanar with the inner lower surfaces 114-2B, 124-2B of the coupled lower female part 114 and lower male part 124. In some embodiments, the first latch plane "A" is positioned at a first height or lower (relative to the third adapter 140C (and / or its mounting flange 150)), and the second latch plane "B" is positioned at a second height or higher (relative to the third adapter 140C (and / or its mounting flange 150)). For example, as shown in Figures 1J and 1K, at least a portion of the back surface 126C-3 of the third latch arm 126C is positioned on the second latch surface "B", and the edge 154 of the mounting flange 150 abuts against and / or fits, engages with, and / or connects to them. In this way, by connecting the third adapter 140C to the modular junction box 100 and restraining the back surface 126C-3 of the third latch arm 126C with the edge 154 of the mounting flange 150, it is possible to prevent the lower female component 114 and the lower male component 124 from becoming disconnected.In some embodiments, less or more portions of the back surface 126C-3 of the latch arm are positioned on the second latch surface "B", and / or the mounting flange 150 (and / or its edge 154) has tabs or other projections (not shown) that extend to one or more portions of the back surface 126C-3 of the latch arm positioned on the first latch plane "A". In some embodiments, the edge 154 of the mounting flange 150 does not necessarily have to abut the back surface 126C-3 of the latch arm, but even in such cases, it should be understood that the edge 154 can limit the range of motion of the third latch arm 126C, thereby preventing the lower female part 114 and the lower male part 124 from disengaging.

[0026] In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 1K, the third adapter 140C is held by the modular junction box 100 such that the mounting flange 150 is located inside the modular junction box 100 and the connecting element 160 is located outside the modular junction box 100 and / or is coplanar with the outer surface of the modular junction box 100. In some embodiments, the third adapter 140C is held and / or coupled to the modular junction box 100 (and / or at least the lower female component 114 and lower male component 124 thereof) by engaging the mounting channel 170 of the adapter 140C with the inner edge 132 of the port 130. In this way, when the third adapter 140C (or other adapters 140A-B, 140D) is connected to the modular junction box 100 and the modular junction box 100 itself is assembled, the edge 154 of the third adapter 140C can prevent the disengagement of the third latch arm 126C, thereby increasing the integrity of the connection to the modular junction box 100. Furthermore, by using the latch arms 126A-D and their corresponding mating slots 116A-D, the modular junction box 100 can be assembled at least partially without requiring non-integrated fasteners (e.g., fastener 102). And by using the mounting flanges 150 of the adapters 140A-D, disengagement of the latch arm and mating slot can be prevented without requiring additional and / or non-integrated parts.

[0027] While various sizes, numbers, dimensions, and / or ratios of the various elements of the modular junction box 100 are described and / or illustrated, in some embodiments, different sizes, numbers, dimensions, and / or ratios may be used. Similarly, in some embodiments, the configuration of mating elements and / or other cooperating elements and / or corresponding elements may be reversed. While certain elements and / or parts are described and illustrated as including latch arms 126A-D or convex mating surfaces 118B, 128B, and other elements including corresponding mating slots 116A-D or concave mating surfaces 118A, 128A, in some embodiments, the configuration of these elements, latch arms, mating slots, and / or mating surfaces may be reversed without changing the overall functionality of the modular junction box 100.

[0028] In some embodiments, the components of the modular junction box 100 are 102, 104, 106, 110, 112, 112-1A, 112-1B, 112-3A, 112-3B, 112-5A, 112-5B, 112-6A, 112-6B, 114, 114-2A, 114-2B, 114-3A, 114-3B, 114-5A, 114-5B, 114-6A, 114-6B, 116A-D, 116-1, 116-2, 118A, 118B, 120, 122, 122-1A, 122-1B, 122-4A, 122-4B, 122-5A, 122-5B, 122-6A, 122-6b, 1 Any or all of 24, 124-2A, 124-2B, 124-4A, 124-4B, 124-5A, 124-5B, 124-6A, 124-6B, 126A-D, 126-1, 126-2, 126-3, 126C-3, 128A, 128B, 130, 130-1, 130-2, 130-3, 130-4, 130-5, 130-6, 132, 140A-D, 140A-1, 140B-1, 140D-1, 140A-2, 140B-2, 140D-2, 150, 154, and 170 may have similar components and / or functions to those of similar names and / or symbols described herein.Also, a smaller or larger number of components of the modular junction box 100: 102, 104, 106, 110, 112, 112-1A, 112-1B, 112-3A, 112-3B, 112-5A, 112-5B, 112-6A, 112-6B, 114, 114-2A, 114-2B, 114-3A, 114-3B, 114-5A, 114-5B, 114-6A, 114-6B, 116A-D, 116-1, 116-2, 118A, 118B, 120, 122, 122-1A, 122-1B, 122-4A, 122-4B, 122-5A , 122-5B, 122-6A, 122-6b, 124, 124-2A, 124-2B, 124-4A, 124-4B, 124-5A, 124-5B, 124-6A, 124-6B, 126A-D, 126-1, 126-2, 126-3, 126C-3, 128A, 128B, 130, 130-1, 130-2, 130-3, 130-4, 130-5, 130-6, 132, 140A-D, 140A-1, 140B-1, 140D-1, 140A-2, 140B-2, 140D-2, 150, 154, 170 (and / or parts thereof), and / or composition Elements 102, 104, 106, 110, 112, 112-1A, 112-1B, 112-3A, 112-3B, 112-5A, 112-5 B, 112-6A, 112-6B, 114, 114-2A, 114-2B, 114-3A, 114-3B, 114-5A, 114-5B, 1 14-6A, 114-6B, 116A-D, 116-1, 116-2, 118A, 118B, 120, 122, 122-1A, 122-1 B, 122-4A, 122-4B, 122-5A, 122-5B, 122-6A, 122-6b, 124, 124-2A, 124-2B, 1 Various configurations of 24-4A, 124-4B, 124-5A, 124-5B, 124-6A, 124-6B, 126A-D, 126-1, 126-2, 126-3, 126C-3, 128A, 128B, 130, 130-1, 130-2, 130-3, 130-4, 130-5, 130-6, 132, 140A-D, 140A-1, 140B-1, 140D-1, 140A-2, 140B-2, 140D-2, 150, 154, and 170 may be included in the modular junction box 100 without departing from the scope of the embodiments described herein.In addition, in some embodiments, various components 102, 104, 106, 110, 112, 112-1A, 112-1B, 112-3A, 112-3B, 112-5A, 112-5B, 112-6A, 112-6B, 114, 114-2A, 114-2B, 114-3A, 114-3B, 114-5A, 114-5B, 114-6A, 114-6B, 116A-D, 116-1, 116-2, 118A, 118B, 120, 122, 122-1A, 122-1B, 122-4A, 122-4B, 122-5A, 122-5B, 122-6A, 122-6b, 124, 1 One or more of 24-2A, 124-2B, 124-4A, 124-4B, 124-5A, 124-5B, 124-6A, 124-6B, 126A-D, 126-1, 126-2, 126-3, 126C-3, 128A, 128B, 130, 130-1, 130-2, 130-3, 130-4, 130-5, 130-6, 132, 140A-D, 140A-1, 140B-1, 140D-1, 140A-2, 140B-2, 140D-2, 150, 154, and 170 may not be necessary and / or desired in the modular junction box 100.

[0029] III. Components of a modular junction box

[0030] Figures 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D are perspective views, perspective assembly views, top perspective views, and bottom perspective views of female parts 210 of a modular junction box according to several embodiments. In some embodiments, the female parts 210 include one or more fasteners 202 (see Figure 2B) that connect an upper fastening element 204 and a lower fastening element 206 to each other, thereby allowing an upper female part 212 (having at least an inner upper surface 212-1B) to be selectively and / or detachably coupled to a lower female part 214 (having at least an inner lower surface 214-2B). In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 2C and 2D, one or both of the female parts 212, 214 have one or more mating elements or mating slots 216A-D provided and / or formed on their inner surfaces (inner upper and inner lower surfaces) 212-1B, 214-2B.

[0031] In some embodiments, the inner surfaces 212-1B, 214-2B include and / or form two heights, planes, or surfaces, namely (i) a first surface or lower surface "A" (e.g., located on the first plane), and (ii) a second surface or higher surface "B" (e.g., located on the second plane, which is parallel to the first plane but offset from the first plane). In some embodiments, the lower surface "A" includes the inner surfaces 212-1B, 214-2B and / or a portion of the higher surface "B" of the higher surface "B" formed by a notch or the like to be concave with respect to the higher surface "B". Also, the higher surface "B" includes the inner surfaces 212-1B, 214-2B and / or a portion of the lower surface "A" formed by extrusion or the like to be convex with respect to the lower surface "A". In this way, the lower surface "A" forms a sheet portion (for example, a square or rectangular sheet portion), and the higher surface "B" forms a shoulder portion that surrounds and / or is adjacent to the sheet portion of the lower surface "A".

[0032] In some embodiments, the mating slots 216A-D are formed and / or provided on one or more of the lower surface "A" and the higher surface "B" of the inner surfaces 212-1B and 214-2B. In some embodiments, as illustrated with respect to the first mating slot 216A in Figure 2C and the third mating slot 216C in Figure 2D, the mating slots 216A-D have a first channel or first recess 216A-1, 216C-1 and a second channel or second recess 216A-2, 216C-2. The first recesses 216A-1, 216C-1 include notches, grooves, channels, recesses, etc., formed (or otherwise provided) on the inner upper surface 212-1B and the inner lower surface 214-2B. In some embodiments, the first recesses 216A-1, 216C-1 include a slot that extends from a first end (i.e., the proximal end, or entrance end) of the upper female part 212 and the lower female part 214 to a second end (i.e., the distal end, or terminal end) at a predetermined distance from the first end, for example, a slot that defines the length of the first recesses 216A-1, 216C-1. In some embodiments, the first recesses 216A-1, 216C-1 have a first depth ranging from, for example, 1 millimeter (1 mm) to a value obtained by subtracting 1 millimeter (1 mm) from the thickness of the female parts 212, 214. In some embodiments, the first recesses 216A-1, 216C-1 include portions having various depths of any viable size (e.g., ranging from zero (0) to the full thickness of the upper female part 212 or the lower female part 214).

[0033] In some embodiments, the second recesses 216A-2, 216C-2 include portions of the first recesses 216A-1, 216C-1 that differ in dimensions by one or more dimensions from the first recesses 216A-1, 216C-1. The second recesses 216A-2, 216C-2 include, for example, portions of the length of the first recesses 216A-1, 216C-1 that have a second depth greater than or less than the first depth. In some embodiments (as shown in Figures 2C and 2D), the second depth is greater than the first depth, and the second recesses 216A-2, 216C-2 form further recesses within the first recesses 216A-1, 216C-1 (for example, the overall depth of the first recesses 216A-1, 216C-1 is extended at the location of the second recesses 216A-2, 216C-2). In some embodiments, the second recesses 216A-2, 216C-2 are formed to be of a size, shape, and / or other shape that allows them to cooperatively engage with one or more other elements (not shown).

[0034] In some embodiments, the mating slots 216A-D (and / or the first recesses 216A-1, 216C-1) are formed, notched, and / or provided in the lower surface "A" of the inner surface 212-1B, 214-2B such that the bottom surfaces of the first recesses 216A-1, 216C-1 are positioned on a third surface that is parallel to the first surface but offset from the first surface. As shown in the figure, the third plane is offset from the first plane in the direction opposite to the direction of the offset of the second plane from the first plane (the first direction) (the second direction). In some embodiments, the second recesses 216A-2, 216C-2 have a “deeper” portion of the fitting slots 216A-D formed, notched, and / or provided within the first recesses 216A-1, 216C-1 such that the bottom surface of the second recesses 216A-2, 216C-2 is positioned on a fourth surface that is parallel to the third surface but offset from the third surface in the second direction.

[0035] In some embodiments, the upper female part 212 has one or more concave mating surfaces 218A (first mating surfaces), and the concave mating surface 218A is formed to be sized and shaped so that it can be coupled, seated, and / or mated with a convex mating surface 218B (second mating surface) of the corresponding lower female part 214. In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 2B, 2C, and 2D, the concave mating surface 218A and the convex mating surface 218B have upper fastening elements 204 and lower fastening elements 206 that are aligned with each other when they are coupled. In a non-limiting example where the upper fastening element 204 and the lower fastening element 206 are threaded holes and the fastener 202 is a screw (as shown in Figure 2B), the threaded hole of the upper fastening element 204 is formed to extend through the upper female part 212 from its outer upper surface to its concave fitting surface 218A. Similarly, the threaded hole of the lower fastening element 206 is formed to extend through the lower female part 114 from its convex fitting surface 218B to its outer lower surface. In this way, the screw fastener 202 can be inserted through the screw holes of the upper fastening element 204 and the lower fastening element 206, which are aligned axially with each other, and is inserted through the upper female part 212 into the lower female part 214, thereby joining the upper female part 212 and the lower female part 214 together. This joining is reinforced by the concave mating surface 218A seating and / or fitting onto the convex mating surface 218B. In some embodiments (as shown in Figure 2B), a gasket sheet portion 218-1 is provided to allow the attachment of a gasket, ring, and / or seal (not shown) that provides a waterproof and / or dustproof seal for the female part 210 and / or the modular junction box.

[0036] In some embodiments, the female part 210 includes a plurality of ports 230 formed through one or more of various faces and / or sides by notches or the like. In some embodiments, the female part 210 includes and / or defines (all or partially) an upper port 230-1, a front port 230-3, and / or a right port 230-6. Although the ports 230 are shown as having the same or similar diameters, the size, shape, and / or number of the ports 230 may vary and / or increase or decrease in various ways between the various faces and / or sides. In some embodiments, each port 230 is formed by two or more parts, parts, and / or components. As shown in Figure 2A, for example, (i) the upper port 230-1 may be partially formed by the upper female component 212, or by another component not shown (e.g., a corresponding male component and / or another upper component); (ii) the right port 230-6 may be partially formed by each of the female components 212, 214, or by another component not shown (e.g., a corresponding male component, or another upper component and / or lower component); and / or, (iii) the front port 230-3 may be entirely formed by the upper female components 212, 214 and the lower female component. In some embodiments, the formation and / or distribution of the various parts of the port 230 may be configured to reinforce the coupling of the adapter (not shown).

[0037] In some embodiments, any port 230 is formed from at least a first portion "C" and a second portion "D". As shown in Figure 2A as a non-limiting example, (i) the upper port 230-1 is defined (at least partially) by a first portion "C" formed by the upper female part 212, (ii) the front port 230-3 is defined by a first portion "C" formed by the lower female part 214 and a second portion "D" formed by the upper female part 212, and / or (iii) the right port 230-6 is defined (at least partially) by a first portion "C" formed by the lower female part 214 and the upper female part 212 (the first portion "C" may include a third portion "E" formed by the lower female part 214 and a fourth portion "F" formed by the upper female part 212). In some embodiments, the ratio of the first portion "C" to the second portion "D" is set such that the first portion "C" occupies a larger proportion of the entire port 230 than the second portion "D". For example, in the case of a circular port 230 as shown, the first portion "C" occupies 51% to 75%, or 55% to 60%, of the entire port 230 (in terms of diameter, area, circumference, and / or other dimensions), and the second portion "D" occupies 25% to 49%, or 40% to 45%, of the entire port 230. In some embodiments, the first portion "C" occupies 58% to 59%, and the second portion "D" occupies 41% to 42%. In this way, for example, adapters of various shapes and / or sizes (not shown) can be inserted into and / or engaged with at least the first portion "C" of the port 230, and thereby can be selectively and / or detachably held. For example, a circular adapter having the same diameter as the upper port 230-1 can be “snapped” to the first part “C” of the upper port 230-1 by pushing its diameter portion into the smaller cord opening of the first part “C”. In some embodiments, this “snapping” action represents overcoming interference forces, thereby preventing the adapter from being disengaged from the first part “C” once engaged, unless an equivalent (or similar) retraction force is applied.In some embodiments, such selective, self-constraining coupling can facilitate the assembly of the female component 210 and / or the entire modular junction box (not shown) that includes the female component 210 as part thereof.

[0038] In some embodiments, any or all of the components 202, 204, 206, 212, 212-1B, 214, 214-2B, 216A-D, 216A-1, 216C-1, 216A-2, 216C-2, 218A, 218B, 230, 230-1, 230-3, 230-6 of the female component 210 may have a similar structure and / or function to components with similar names and / or reference numerals described herein. Also, a smaller or larger number of components 202, 204, 206, 212, 212-1B, 214, 214-2B, 216A~D, 216A-1, 216C-1, 216A-2, 216C-2, 218A, 218B, 230, 230-1, 230-3, 230-6 (and / or parts thereof) of the female mold part 210, and / or configuration Various configurations of elements 202, 204, 206, 212, 212-1B, 214, 214-2B, 216A-D, 216A-1, 216C-1, 216A-2, 216C-2, 218A, 218B, 230, 230-1, 230-3, and 230-6 may be included in the female part 210 without departing from the scope of the embodiments described herein. Furthermore, in some embodiments, one or more of the various components 202, 204, 206, 212, 212-1B, 214, 214-2B, 216A~D, 216A-1, 216C-1, 216A-2, 216C-2, 218A, 218B, 230, 230-1, 230-3, and 230-6 may not be necessary and / or desired in the female mold part 210.

[0039] Figures 3A, 3B, 3C, and 3D are perspective views, perspective assembly views, top perspective views, and bottom perspective views of a male component 320 of a modular junction box according to several embodiments. In some embodiments, the male component 320 includes one or more fasteners 302 (see Figure 3B) that connect an upper fastening element 304 and a lower fastening element 306 to each other, thereby allowing an upper male component 322 (having at least an inner upper surface 322-1B) to be selectively and / or detachably coupled to a lower male component 324 (having at least an inner lower surface 324-2B). In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 3C and 3D, one or both of the male components 322, 324 have one or more mating elements or latch arms 326A-D provided and / or formed on their inner surfaces (inner upper and inner lower surfaces) 322-1B, 324-2B.

[0040] In some embodiments, the inner surfaces 322-1B, 324-2B include and / or form two heights, planes, or horizontal planes, namely (i) a first plane or lower surface "A" (e.g., located on the first plane), and (ii) a second plane or higher surface "B" (e.g., located on the second plane, which is parallel to the first plane but offset from the first plane). In some embodiments, the lower surface "A" includes the inner surfaces 322-1B, 324-2B and / or a portion of the higher surface "B" of the higher surface "B" formed by a notch or the like to be concave with respect to the higher surface "B". Also, the higher surface "B" includes the surface 322-1B, 324-2B and / or a portion of the lower surface "A" formed by extrusion or the like to be convex with respect to the lower surface "A". In this way, the lower surface "A" forms a sheet portion (for example, a square or rectangular sheet portion), and the higher surface "B" forms a shoulder portion that surrounds and / or is adjacent to the sheet portion of the lower surface "A".

[0041] In some embodiments, the latch arms 326A-D are formed on and / or provided on one or more of the lower surface "A" and higher surface "B" of the inner surfaces 322-1B and 324-2B. In some embodiments, the latch arms 326A-D include elongated projections having first latch surfaces 326A-1, 326B-1, 326C-1, and 326D-1, second latch surfaces 326A-2, 326B-2, 326C-2, and 326D-2, and latch arm back surfaces 326A-3, 326B-3, 326C-3, and 326D-3. In some embodiments, the latch arms 326A-D extend from the upper male part 322 and the lower male part 324 along or parallel to the inner surfaces 322-1B and 324-2B. The first and second latch arms 326A-B (and / or the back surfaces 326A-3, 326B-3 of each latch arm) extend from and / or lie coplanar with the inner upper surface 322-1B (and / or its first surface "A" or lower surface "B") of the upper male component 322. The third and fourth latch arms 326C-D (and / or the back surfaces 326C-3, 326D-3 of each latch arm) extend from and / or lie coplanar with the inner lower surface 324-2B (and / or its first surface "A" or lower surface "B") of the lower male component 324. In some embodiments, the latch arms 326A-D are formed to be sized and / or shaped so that they can seat, fit, and / or connect to each mating slot (not shown; for example, mating slots 216A-D in Figures 2A, 2B, 2C, and / or 2D) of a separate, but cooperative female component (not shown; for example, female component 210 in Figures 2A, 2B, 2C, and / or 2D). The length and / or width of the latch arms 326A-D are formed to be sized and / or shaped so that they can fit into the first recess of the corresponding mating slot and / or other cooperative mating elements.

[0042] In some embodiments, the first latch surfaces 326A-1, 326B-1, 326C-1, and 326D-1 are configured to seat, engage, and / or connect to a first recess (not shown) of the corresponding mating slot, and the second latch surfaces 326A-2, 326B-2, 326C-2, and 326D-2 are configured to seat, engage, and / or connect to a second recess (not shown) of the corresponding mating slot. If the second latch surfaces 326A-2, 326B-2, 326C-2, and 326D-2 have projections (for example, outwardly projecting projections as shown) and the second recess of the mating slot has a latch receiving portion, then engaging the second latch surfaces 326A-2, 326B-2, 326C-2, and 326D-2 with the second recess can prevent axial or planar disengagement between the male part 320 and the female part mated or coupled thereto. In some embodiments, the latch arms 326A-D are configured to be elastically bendable and deformable, and by selectively bending them inward, the engagement between the second latch surfaces 326A-2, 326B-2, 326C-2, and 326D-2 and the second recess can be disengaged, thereby selectively disengaging the coupling between the male part 320 and the female part. In some embodiments, the latch arms 326A-D may be rigid, in which case the engagement between the second latch surfaces 326A-2, 326B-2, 326C-2, 326D-2 and the second recess can be released by changing the angle and / or orientation of the latch arms 326A-D.

[0043] In some embodiments, the latch arms 326A-D have a first thickness between the first latch surfaces 326A-1, 326B-1, 326C-1, 326D-1 and the latch arm back surfaces 326A-3, 326B-3, and a second thickness between the second latch surfaces 326A-2, 326B-2, 326C-2, 326D-2 and the latch arm back surfaces 326A-3, 326B-3, 326C-3, 326D-3. In some embodiments, the first and second thicknesses are set such that when the latch arms 326A-D are seated and / or coupled to their corresponding mating slots, the back surfaces 326A-3, 326B-3, 326C-3, and 326D-3 of the latch arms are coplanar and / or coplanar with the inner upper surface 322-1B and the inner lower surface 324-2B (e.g., one or both of the first surface "A" or the lower surface "B"). The first thickness of the latch arms 326A-D is set to be equal to the first depth of the first recess, and the second thickness of the latch arms 326A-D is set to be equal to the second depth of the second recess. In some embodiments, the latch arms 326A-D are otherwise formed to conform to and / or cooperate with the shape of the mating slots in terms of size, shape, and / or other shape.

[0044] In some embodiments, the upper male component 322 has one or more concave mating surfaces 328A (first mating surfaces), and the concave mating surface 328A is formed to be sized and shaped so that it can engage, seat, and / or mat with a convex mating surface 328B (second mating surface) of the corresponding lower male component 324. In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 3B, 3C, and 3D, the concave mating surface 328A and the convex mating surface 328B have upper fastening elements 304 and lower fastening elements 306 that are aligned with each other when they are joined together. In a non-limiting example where the upper fastening element 304 and the lower fastening element 306 are threaded holes and the fastener 302 is a screw (as shown in Figure 1H), the threaded hole of the upper fastening element 304 is formed to extend through the upper male component 322 from its outer upper surface to its concave mating surface 328A. Similarly, the threaded hole of the lower fastening element 306 is formed to extend through the lower male component 324 from its convex mating surface 328B to its outer lower surface. In this way, the screw fastener 302 is inserted through the screw holes of the upper fastening element 304 and the lower fastening element 306, which are aligned axially with each other, and is inserted through the upper male part 322 into the lower male part 324, thereby connecting the upper male part 322 and the lower male part 324 to each other. This connection is reinforced by the concave fitting surface 328A seating and / or fitting onto the convex fitting surface 328B.

[0045] In some embodiments, the male part 320 includes a plurality of ports 330 formed through one or more of various faces and / or sides by notches or the like. In some embodiments, the male part 320 includes and / or defines (all or partially) an upper port 330-1, a lower port 330-2, a left port 330-5, and / or a right port 330-6. Although the ports 330 are shown as having the same or similar diameter, the size, shape, and / or number of the ports 330 may vary and / or increase or decrease in various ways between the various faces and / or sides. In some embodiments, each port 330 is formed by two or more parts, parts, and / or components. As shown in Figure 3A, for example, (i) the upper port 330-1 may be partially formed by the upper male component 322, or by another component not shown (e.g., a corresponding female component and / or another lower component); (ii) the lower port 330-2 may be partially formed by the lower male component 324, or by another component not shown (e.g., a corresponding female component and / or another lower component); (iii) the left port 330-5 may be partially formed by each of the male components 322 and 324, or by another component not shown (e.g., a corresponding female component, or another upper component and / or lower component); and / or, (iv) the right port 330-6 may be partially formed by each of the male components 322 and 324, or by another component not shown (e.g., a corresponding female component, or another upper component and / or lower component). In some embodiments, the formation and / or distribution of various parts of port 330 may be configured to reinforce the coupling of the adapter (not shown).

[0046] For example, in some embodiments, any port 330 is formed from at least a first portion "C" and a second portion "D". As shown in Figure 3A as a non-limiting example, (i) the lower port 330-2 is defined (at least partially) by the second portion "D" formed by the lower male component 324, and / or, (ii) the left port 330-5 is defined by the second portion "D" formed by the lower male component 324 and the upper male component 322 (the second portion "D" may include a third portion "E" formed by the lower male component 324 and a fourth portion "F" formed by the upper male component 322). In some embodiments, the ratio of the first portion "C" to the second portion "D" is set such that the first portion "C" (e.g., defined and / or formed by one or more other components, parts and / or components not shown) occupies a larger proportion of the entire port 330 than the second portion "D", as described herein.

[0047] In some embodiments, any or all of the components 302, 304, 306, 322, 322-1B, 324, 324-2B, 326A-D, 326A-1, 326B-1, 326C-1, 326D-1, 326A-2, 326B-2, 326C-2, 326D-2, 326A-3, 326B-3, 326C-3, 326D-3, 328A, 328B, 330-1, 330-2, 330-5, 330-6 of the male component 320 may have a similar structure and / or function to components with similar names and / or reference numerals described herein. Also, fewer or more components of the male part 320, 302, 304, 306, 322, 322-1B, 324, 324-2B, 326A-D, 326A-1, 326B-1, 326C-1, 326D-1, 326A-2, 326B-2, 326C-2, 326D-2, 326A-3, 326B-3, 326C-3, 326D-3, 328A, 328B, 330-1, 330-2, 330-5, 330-6 (and / or parts thereof), and / or configuration Various configurations of elements 302, 304, 306, 322, 322-1B, 324, 324-2B, 326A-D, 326A-1, 326B-1, 326C-1, 326D-1, 326A-2, 326B-2, 326C-2, 326D-2, 326A-3, 326B-3, 326C-3, 326D-3, 328A, 328B, 330-1, 330-2, 330-5, and 330-6 may be included in the male part 320 without departing from the scope of the embodiments described herein. Furthermore, in some embodiments, one or more of the various components 302, 304, 306, 322, 322-1B, 324, 324-2B, 326A-D, 326A-1, 326B-1, 326C-1, 326D-1, 326A-2, 326B-2, 326C-2, 326D-2, 326A-3, 326B-3, 326C-3, 326D-3, 328A, 328B, 330-1, 330-2, 330-5, and 330-6 may not be necessary and / or desired in the male part 320.

[0048] IV. Modular Junction Box System

[0049] Figures 4A, 4B, and 4C are perspective views, section views, and assembly views of modular junction boxes 400 according to several embodiments. In some embodiments, the modular junction box 400 provides an example of how the modular junction box 400 constitutes and / or provides an expandable connection platform. The modular junction box 400 includes a plurality of fasteners 402 (see Figure 4C) which can form a female component 410 by coupling one or more upper fastener elements 404 with one or more corresponding lower fastener elements 406. The fasteners 402 can selectively and / or detachably couple an upper female component 412 (first component) to a lower female component 414 (second component; having a mating element or mating slots 416C-D).

[0050] For example, as shown in Figure 4C, at least the lower female part 414 has a mating slot 416C-D formed in the part. In some embodiments, the mating slot 416C-D is formed to be of a size, shape, and / or other shape that allows it to be cooperatively mated with one or more other elements (described later).

[0051] In some embodiments, the lower female part 414 has one or more mating surfaces 418B, and the mating surface 418A is formed to be sized and shaped so that it can be coupled, seated, and / or mated with the corresponding mating surface (not shown) of the upper female part 412. In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 4C, the mating surface 418B has a lower fastening element 406, which aligns with an upper fastening element 404 provided on the mating surface (not shown) of the upper female part 412 when coupling the lower female part 414 and the upper female part 412. In a non-limiting example where the upper fastening element 404 and the lower fastening element 406 are threaded holes and the fastener 402 is a screw (as shown in Figure 4C), the threaded hole of the upper fastening element 404 is formed to extend through the upper female part 412 from its outer upper surface to its mating surface. Similarly, the threaded hole of the lower fastening element 406 is formed to extend through the lower female part 414 from its mating surface 418B to its outer lower surface. In this way, the screw fastener 402 is inserted through the screw holes of the upper fastening element 404 and the lower fastening element 406, which are aligned axially with each other, and is inserted through the upper female part 412 into the lower female part 414, thereby connecting the upper female part 412 and the lower female part 414 to each other. This connection is reinforced by the mating surface 118B seating and fitting with the corresponding mating surface of the upper female part 412.

[0052] In some embodiments, a male component 420 can be formed by fastening a fastener 402 to connect one or more upper fastening elements 404 and one or more corresponding lower fastening elements 406 to each other. The fastener 402 can selectively and / or detachably connect, for example, an upper male component 422 (a first component; including first and second latch arms 426A-B) to a lower male component 424 (a second component; including a third latch arm 426C (having a latch arm back surface 426C-3) and a fourth latch arm 426D).

[0053] For example, as shown in Figure 4C, the upper male component 422 and the lower male component 424 include mating arms or latch arms 426A-D formed thereon and / or coupled thereto. In some embodiments, the latch arms 426A-D have elongated projections (see Figure 4C) formed to be sized and / or shaped to seat, mate, and / or couple to each mating slot 416C-D of the female component 410 (for example, when the male component 420 is directly coupled to the female component 410). The length and / or width of the latch arms 426A-D are formed to be sized and / or shaped to fit into the corresponding mating slots 416C-D.

[0054] In some embodiments, the lower male component 424 has one or more mating surfaces 428B, which are sized and / or shaped to be able to connect, seat, and / or mate with the corresponding mating surface (not shown) of the upper male component 422. In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 4C, the mating surface 428B has a lower fastening element 406, which aligns with an upper fastening element 404 provided on the mating surface (not shown) of the upper male component 422 when connecting the lower male component 424 and the upper male component 422. In a non-limiting example where the upper fastening element 404 and the lower fastening element 406 are threaded holes and the fastener 402 is a screw (as shown in Figure 4C), the threaded hole of the upper fastening element 404 is formed to extend through the upper male component 422 from its outer upper surface to its mating surface. Similarly, the threaded hole of the lower fastening element 406 is formed to extend through the lower male component 424 from its mating surface 428B to its outer lower surface. In this way, the screw fastener 402 is inserted through the screw holes of the upper fastening element 404 and the lower fastening element 406, which are aligned axially with each other, and is inserted through the upper male part 422 into the lower male part 424, thereby connecting the upper male part 422 and the lower male part 424 to each other. This connection is reinforced by the mating surface 428B seating and fitting with the corresponding mating surface of the upper male part 422.

[0055] In some embodiments, the modular junction box 400 includes a plurality of ports 430 formed to penetrate one or more of various faces and / or sides of the female component 410 and the male component 420. If the modular junction box 400 has a six-sided square or rectangular box shape (as illustrated for non-limiting illustrative purposes), the modular junction box 400 includes and / or defines a first upper port 430A-1, a second upper port 430B-1, a first lower port 430A-2, a second lower port 430B-2, a front port 430-3, a rear port 430-4, a first left port 430A-5, a second left port 430B-5, a first right port 430A-6, and a second right port 430B-6. Although the ports 430 are shown as having the same or similar diameters, the size, shape, and / or number of ports 430 may vary and / or increase or decrease in various ways between different faces and / or sides.

[0056] In some embodiments, some of the ports 430 are also formed by extension components 480 positioned between a female component 410 and a male component 420 and coupled to both components. In some embodiments, an extension component 480 can be formed by a fastener 402 that couples one or more upper fastener elements 404 with one or more corresponding lower fastener elements 406. The fastener 402 can selectively and / or detachably couple an upper extension component 482 (a first component; including first and second latch arms 496A-B) to a lower extension component 484 (a second component; including third and fourth mating slots 486C-D, and / or a third latch arm 496C (having a latch arm back surface 496C-3) and a fourth latch arm 496D).

[0057] In some embodiments, the lower extension 484 includes one or more mating surfaces 498B, which are formed to be sized and / or shaped to be able to connect, seat, and / or engage with a corresponding mating surface (not shown) of the upper extension 482. In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 4C, the mating surface 498B has a lower fastening element 406, which aligns with the upper fastening element 404 of the upper extension 482 when the lower extension 484 and the upper extension 482 are connected. In a non-limiting example where the upper fastening element 404 and the lower fastening element 406 are threaded holes and the fastener 402 is a screw (as shown in Figure 4C), the threaded hole which is the upper fastening element 404 is formed to extend through the upper extension 482 from the outer upper surface to the outer lower surface of the upper extension 482. Similarly, the screw hole of the lower fastening element 406 is formed to extend through the lower extension 484 from the mating surface 498B of the lower extension 484 to the outer lower surface of the lower extension 484. In this way, the screw fastener 402 can be inserted through the screw holes of the upper fastening element 404 and the lower fastening element 406, which are aligned axially with each other, and inserted into the lower extension 484, passing through the upper extension 482, thereby connecting the upper extension 482 and the lower extension 484. This connection is reinforced by the mating surface 498B of the lower extension 484 seating and fitting with the corresponding mating surface of the upper extension 482.

[0058] In some embodiments, one or more extension components 480 are positioned between the female component 410 and the male component 420. For example, as shown in Figures 4A and 4C, by positioning one extension component 480 between the female component 410 and the male component 420, various ports 430 can be formed and / or various modular junction boxes 400 can be configured. In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 4B, by connecting the lower components 414, 424, and 484 of each component to one another, various regions such as a first lower region "A1", a second lower region "A2", a third lower region "A3", a first upper region "B1", a second upper region "B2", and a third upper region "B3" can be formed and / or defined. In some embodiments, each of the lower regions "A1-A4" is positioned and / or oriented within a first plane (lower plane), and each of the upper regions "B1-B3" is positioned and / or oriented within a second plane (upper plane) that is parallel to and offset from the first plane. In some embodiments, the first lower region "A1" and the second lower region "A2" form and / or define a first seat portion, and the third lower region "A3" and the fourth lower region "A4" form and / or define a second seat portion. In some embodiments, the first seat portion and / or the second seat portion is formed to a size and / or shape that can receive, accommodate and / or fit an adapter (not shown) and / or a part thereof (e.g., a mounting flange; also not shown) (e.g., formed to a square shape as illustrated for non-limiting examples).

[0059] In some embodiments, at least portions of the latch arm back surface 426C-3 of the third latch arm 426C of the lower male component 424 and the latch arm back surface 496C-3 of the third latch arm 496C of the lower extension component 484 are coplanar with each lower region "A1 to A4" when engaged with the respective mating slots of the lower extension component 484 and the lower female component 414 (see Figure 4B; not shown individually). In this way, a mounting flange of appropriate size and / or shape (e.g., the mounting flange 550 in Figures 5A and / or 5B) positioned and / or coupled to the first seat portion covers and / or engages with each of the first lower region "A1", the second lower region "A2", and the latch arm back surface 496C-3 of the third latch arm 496C of the lower extension component 484. In addition, in some embodiments, a mounting flange of appropriate size and / or shape (e.g., mounting flange 550 in Figures 5A and / or 5B) positioned and / or coupled to the second seat portion covers and / or engages with the third lower region "A3", the fourth lower region "A4", and the back surface 426C-3 of the third latch arm 426C of the lower male component 424. In this way, the mounting flange can prevent the latch arms 426A-D, 496A-D from being disengaged from their engaged positions. In other words, in some embodiments, in order to remove and / or disassemble the female component 410 and / or the male component 420 from the extension component 480, it is necessary to remove the adapter (and / or its mounting flange) from the modular junction box 400 beforehand.

[0060] In some embodiments, the modular junction box 400 has the ability to expand and / or extend in other directions. In the linear modular junction box 400 of Figure 4A, illustrated for non-limiting examples, the illustrated expansion component 480 can expand the modular junction box 400 in the length direction, but the modular junction box 400 may also include one or more additional expansion components that enable expansion in the height direction. Such additional expansion components may be placed, for example, between the upper components 412, 422, 482 and the lower components 414, 424, 484 of each component. In some embodiments, the modular junction box 400 can also be expanded in the width direction by configuring the upper components 412, 422, 482 and the lower components 414, 424, 484 of each component to be divided into two or more parts in the width direction, and placing one or more expansion components (not shown) between the divided parts.

[0061] In some embodiments, any or all of the components 402, 404, 406, 410, 412, 414, 416C-D, 418B, 420, 422, 424, 426A-D, 426C-3, 428B, 430, 430A-1, 430B-1, 430A-2, 430B-2, 430-3, 430-4, 430A-5, 430B-5, 430A-6, 430B-6, 480, 482, 484, 486C-D, 498B, 496A-D, and 496C-3 of the modular junction box 400 may have a similar configuration and / or function to components with similar names and / or reference numerals described herein. Also, a smaller or larger number of components of the modular junction box 400, 402, 404, 406, 410, 412, 414, 416C-D, 418B, 420, 422, 424, 426A~D, 426C-3, 428B, 430, 430A-1, 430B-1, 430A-2, 430B-2, 430-3, 430-4, 430A-5, 430B-5, 430A-6, 430B-6, 480, 482, 484, 486C~D, 498B, 496A~D, 496C-3 (and / or parts thereof), and / or configuration Various configurations of elements 402, 404, 406, 410, 412, 414, 416C-D, 418B, 420, 422, 424, 426A-D, 426C-3, 428B, 430, 430A-1, 430B-1, 430A-2, 430B-2, 430-3, 430-4, 430A-5, 430B-5, 430A-6, 430B-6, 480, 482, 484, 486C-D, 498B, 496A-D, and 496C-3 may be included in the modular junction box 400 without departing from the scope of the embodiments described herein.Furthermore, in some embodiments, one or more of the various components 402, 404, 406, 410, 412, 414, 416C-D, 418B, 420, 422, 424, 426A~D, 426C-3, 428B, 430, 430A-1, 430B-1, 430A-2, 430B-2, 430-3, 430-4, 430A-5, 430B-5, 430A-6, 430B-6, 480, 482, 484, 486C~D, 498B, 496A~D, and 496C-3 may not be necessary and / or desired in the modular junction box 400.

[0062] V. Modular Port Adapter

[0063] Figures 5A and 5B are perspective and cross-sectional views of modular port adapters 540 according to several embodiments. In some embodiments, the modular port adapter 540 includes blanks or plugs as shown, or includes one or more other types of adapters such as hose adapters, conduit adapters, wiring adapters, hose fittings, pipe fittings, compression fittings, thread fittings, and barb fittings. In some embodiments, the modular port adapter 540 is formed in various shapes and / or sizes (e.g., diameter and / or dimensions) that can cooperatively receive and / or mat or connect one or more desired types of parts. In some embodiments, the modular port adapter 540 has recesses, holes, ports, passages, holders, openings, and / or recesses 542 formed in (and optionally through) the mounting flange 550. The mounting flange 550 includes part of a modular port adapter 540 configured to be coupled to and / or held by a corresponding seat portion (not shown; for example, a seat portion formed by the first lower region "A1" and the second lower region "A2" in Figure 4B (and / or the back surface 496C-3 of the third latch arm 496C)). In some embodiments, the mounting flange 550 includes a front surface 552 having a plurality of peripheral edges 554A-D (for example, a recess 542 notched and / or formed therein). As shown with respect to the first peripheral edge 554A and the third peripheral edge 554C in Figure 5B, the peripheral edges 554A-D have retaining edges 556A, 556C oriented perpendicular to the front surface 552. The retaining edges 556A, 556C are also connected to the front surface 552 by edge bevels 558A, 558C.

[0064] In some embodiments, the modular port adapter 540 further includes a connecting element 560 coupled and / or connected to the mounting flange 550. For convenience, the term connecting element 560 is used herein, but with respect to the blank or plug version of the modular port adapter 540, as shown in Figures 5A and 5B, the connecting element 560 does not necessarily have to be configured to connect to an external component. However, in many cases, the connecting element 560 is formed to a suitable size and / or shape that can be coupled to any known or actually used external component. In some embodiments, the connecting element 560 may be configured separately from the mounting flange 550 and coupled to the mounting flange 550 by a mounting channel 570. The mounting channel 570 includes, for example, circumferential grooves, tracks, slots, and / or paths used to guide, mount, and / or couple the modular port adapter 540 to a modular junction box (and / or its ports; not shown; e.g., left-side port 130-5 in Figure 1F). In some embodiments, the mounting channel 570 has sides defined by one or more of the inner flange 572, the mating surface 574, and / or the mating bevel 576. The sides of the mounting channel 570 are formed to conform to the shape and / or size of the outer shape (e.g., male outer shape; not shown) corresponding to the inner edge of the port (not shown) of the modular junction box. In some embodiments, the mounting flange 550 is used to hold and / or restrain a latch arm (not shown). When the mounting flange 550 is inserted and / or coupled to the seat portion of the modular junction box, for example as described herein, the displacement of the latch arm (e.g., the back surface of the latch arm) can be limited or prevented by the engagement of one or both of the inner flange 572 and the peripheral portions 554A-D with the corresponding latch arm.

[0065] In some embodiments, any or all of the components 542, 550, 552, 554A-D, 556A, 556C, 558A, 558C, 560, 570, 572, 574, and 576 of the modular port adapter 540 may have a configuration and / or function similar to the components with similar names and / or reference numerals described herein. Furthermore, a smaller or larger number of components 542, 550, 552, 554A-D, 556A, 556C, 558A, 558C, 560, 570, 572, 574, 576 (and / or parts thereof) of the modular port adapter 540, and / or various configurations of components 542, 550, 552, 554A-D, 556A, 556C, 558A, 558C, 560, 570, 572, 574, 576 may be included in the modular port adapter 540 without departing from the scope of the embodiments described herein. Furthermore, in some embodiments, one or more of the various components 542, 550, 552, 554A~D, 556A, 556C, 558A, 558C, 560, 570, 572, 574, and 576 may not be necessary and / or desired in the modular port adapter 540.

[0066] Figures 6A and 6B are perspective and cross-sectional views of a modular port adapter 640 according to several embodiments. In some embodiments, the modular port adapter 640 includes threaded connectors as shown, or includes one or more other types of adapters such as hose adapters, conduit adapters, wiring adapters, hose connectors, pipe connectors, compression fittings, threaded fittings, and barb fittings. In some embodiments, the modular port adapter 640 is formed in various shapes and / or sizes (e.g., diameter and / or dimensions) that can cooperatively receive and / or mate or connect one or more desired types of components. In some embodiments, the modular port adapter 640 includes a mounting flange 650 and / or a connecting element 660. The connecting element 660 has an internal threaded portion 662 that selectively connects to threaded hoses, conduits, pipes, etc. (not shown).

[0067] In some embodiments, the connecting element 660 may be configured separately from the mounting flange 650 and coupled to the mounting flange 650 by a mounting channel 670. The mounting channel 670 includes, for example, circumferential grooves, tracks, slots, and / or paths used to guide, mount, and / or couple the modular port adapter 640 to a modular junction box (and / or its ports; not shown; e.g., left port 130-5 in Figure 1F). In some embodiments, the mounting channel 670 is formed to conform to the shape and / or size of an outer shape (e.g., male outer shape; not shown) corresponding to the inner edge of a port (not shown) of the modular junction box. In some embodiments, the mounting flange 650 is used to hold and / or restrain a latch arm (not shown).

[0068] In some embodiments, any or all of the components 650, 660, 662, 670 of the modular port adapter 640 may have a configuration and / or function similar to components with similar names and / or reference numerals described herein. Also, fewer or more components 650, 660, 662, 670 (and / or some thereof), and / or various configurations of components 650, 660, 662, 670 may be included in the modular port adapter 640 without departing from the scope of the embodiments described herein. Also, in some embodiments, one or more of the various components 650, 660, 662, 670 may not be necessary and / or desired in the modular port adapter 640.

[0069] This disclosure provides to those skilled in the art a feasible description of several embodiments and / or inventions. Some of these embodiments and / or inventions may not be claimed in this application but may be claimed in one or more continuation applications claiming priority to this application. The applicant now intends to file additional applications to claim patents for subject matter disclosed and feasible in this application but not claimed.

Claims

1. It is a modular junction box, A female part having at least one mating slot, A male component having at least one latch arm, wherein the at least one latch arm is configured to be at least partially receivable within the at least one mating slot for coupling the male component to the female component, A modular junction box comprising: a modular adapter element disposed in a port formed by one or more of the female and male components, wherein at least one adapter surface of the modular adapter element is configured to engage with the latch surface of the at least one latch arm to hold the at least one latch arm in the at least one mating slot to prevent the female and male components from being discoupled.

2. A modular junction box according to claim 1, The aforementioned female mold part is Upper female mold part, A modular junction box, comprising a lower female component coupled to the upper female component.

3. A modular junction box according to claim 2, A modular junction box further comprising at least one fastener arranged to connect the upper female component to the lower female component.

4. A modular junction box according to claim 1, The aforementioned male component is, Upper male part, A modular junction box, including a lower male component coupled to the upper male component.

5. A modular junction box according to claim 4, A modular junction box further comprising at least one fastener arranged to connect the upper male component to the lower male component.

6. A modular junction box according to claim 1, The port is a modular junction box, partially formed by the female component and the male component, respectively.

7. A modular junction box according to claim 6, A modular junction box in which the first portion of the port formed by the female mold component occupies 55 to 60% of the area of ​​the port.

8. A modular junction box according to claim 1, The modular adapter element is a modular junction box having a diameter equivalent to the diameter of the port.

9. A modular junction box according to claim 1, A modular junction box in which the at least one adapter surface of the modular adapter element abuts against the latch surface of the at least one latch arm.

10. A modular junction box according to claim 1, The at least one latch arm is It has a latch portion and a back portion on the opposite side, The latch portion is configured to be receivable within the at least one fitting slot of the female component, The rear surface portion includes the latch surface which can be engaged by the at least one adapter surface of the modular adapter element, in a modular junction box.

11. A modular junction box according to claim 1, The modular adapter element is a modular junction box, which includes a flange defining at least one adapter surface.

12. A modular junction box according to claim 1, The female and male components cooperate with each other to define the port in a modular junction box.

13. A modular junction box according to claim 12, A modular junction box further comprising at least one second port defined by one or more of the female and male components.

14. A modular junction box according to claim 13, A modular junction box further comprising a fitting located within at least one of the second ports.

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