Electrical socket, fixing element, device, tool, handling robot, method for assembling a device, and table

Abstract

The invention relates to an electrical socket (30), which is designed to be fastened to a panel (31). The panel (31) is designed to be mounted as part of a wall (32) and / or a ceiling (32) of a room (37) of a building. The panel (31) has, based on a mounted state of the panel (31), an inner side (33), which faces the room (37), and an outer side (34), which faces away from the room (37). The electrical socket (30) has at least one fastening device (38), which is designed to fasten the electrical socket (30) to the outer side (34) of the panel (31). The electrical socket (30) has at least one gripping interface (52), which is designed to come into an engagement connection with at least one handling robot (53) in order to position the electrical socket (30) on the panel (31) by means of the handling robot (53). The invention also relates to a fixing element (70), which is designed to fix at least one electrical line (72) to a panel (31), to a device (100), to a tool, to a method for assembling a device (100), and to a table (200).

Description

[0001] PCT late registration

[0002] based on EP 24212506.0

[0003] Gropyus AG

[0004] Vossius Ref.: AJ1961 PCT S5

[0005] Electrical box, fixing element, device, tool, handling robot, method for assembling a device and table

[0006] In building construction, a relatively large number of electrical installations are typically carried out, such as electrical wiring, sockets, etc. With today's technological advancements, these electrical installations are generally performed manually, usually on-site at the building itself, for example, at a construction site.

[0007] However, such manual processes require qualified and / or relatively expensive labor.

[0008] This also leads to considerable production effort and relatively low efficiency, resulting in relatively high costs.

[0009] Furthermore, manually performed assembly processes are often prone to errors and / or frequently exhibit relatively low assembly accuracy or relatively large deviations.

[0010] It is therefore desirable to improve at least one disadvantage of the state of the art, preferably at least one of the disadvantages mentioned above, at least partially.

[0011] It is therefore an object of the present invention to improve electrical installations, in particular by increasing efficiency and / or accuracy and / or by making it easier to assemble the electrical installations.

[0012] This problem is solved by an electrical socket according to the features of claim 1. Advantageous embodiments with expedient further developments of the invention are specified in the respective dependent claims and in the following description.

[0013] The electrical box can be designed to be attached to a panel. The panel can be designed to be mounted as part of a wall and / or ceiling, in particular a cavity wall and / or a hollow ceiling, of a room in a building. As part of the wall and / or ceiling of the room, the panel can at least partially define the room's boundaries. The panel can be located at least partially in and / or on an opening defined in the wall and / or ceiling, and / or at least partially close the opening, and / or the panel can extend at least partially over the opening. The panel can be positively locked, force-fit, and / or materially bonded to the wall and / or ceiling, in particular to a section of the wall and / or ceiling adjacent to the panel in its mounted state, for example, by means of screws, adhesive, clips, clamps, plug connectors, etc.When installed, the panel can essentially serve as part of the wall and / or ceiling of a room.

[0014] A room of a building, within the meaning of the present revelation, can be understood as a room of a building in which people usually stay or can stay, for example a living room, a bedroom, etc.

[0015] The building wall can be designed as a cavity wall. In other words, the wall can have at least one cavity that can at least partially accommodate the panel and / or the electrical box. The building ceiling can be designed as a hollow ceiling. In other words, the ceiling can have at least one cavity that can at least partially accommodate the panel and / or the electrical box.

[0016] The panel can have an inside facing the room and an outside facing away from the room, each relative to the panel's installed state. The electrical box can have at least one mounting device. The mounting device can be configured to attach the electrical box to the outside of the panel. In other words, the electrical box can be mounted to the back of the panel, relative to the panel's installed state.

[0017] The electrical box can have at least one gripping interface. The gripping interface can be configured to allow at least one handling robot to establish an engagement connection in order to position the electrical box on the panel using the handling robot.

[0018] In the current state of the art, electrical installations, such as electrical boxes, are generally carried out manually, usually on-site at the respective building, for example at a construction site, as described above. In contrast to the current state of the art, the electrical box described herein enables robot-assisted, preferably fully automated, installation. This allows the electrical box to be installed relatively quickly and / or efficiently compared to the manual installation of electrical boxes in the current state of the art.

[0019] This allows the electrical box to be pre-mounted on the panel, especially in larger quantities, for example in a production hall, instead of directly at the final assembly point, such as a construction site. The panel, with the attached, i.e., pre-mounted, electrical box, can then be installed as part of a wall and / or ceiling in a room of the respective building. This allows the assembly process for mounting the electrical box to be made relatively efficient, for example in a production line. This, in turn, increases the number of panels that can be installed, especially compared to manual assembly.

[0020] Furthermore, the electrical box described herein can be mounted more precisely, i.e., with less deviation from a target position, on the panel or the respective building, compared to manual installation. This can, for example, prevent or at least reduce installation errors. In addition, it can generally lead to a higher quality of installation.

[0021] The electrical box can have at least one receiving space, for example at least one compartment or housing, for receiving electrical components and / or media components, for example media installations.

[0022] The electrical box can accommodate at least one cable and / or at least one plug and / or at least one switch.

[0023] The mounting device can be designed to attach the electrical box to the outside of the panel using at least one fastener, such as a nail, screw, clip, adhesive, etc. The fastener can be part of the mounting device. For example, the fastener can be permanently and / or integrally connected to the mounting device. Alternatively, the fastener can be an additional component that is connected to the mounting device and the panel during installation to secure the electrical box to the outside of the panel.

[0024] The fastening device is preferably designed to attach the electrical box to the outside of the panel using at least one screwless connection, for example, a nail, a staple, adhesive, etc. Standard cavity wall boxes are often attached to the respective structure using a screw. The screw must be loosened slightly to expose threaded inserts, which then rotate out of the box's contour as it is tightened and screwed into the panel until they reach the clamping point. This is a process that cannot be automated and sometimes fails even when done manually. A screwless fastening of the electrical box thus increases the degree of automation in its installation and therefore the automation potential of the electrical box assembly.

[0025] The fastening device can have at least one perforation, preferably at least two perforations, which is designed to receive at least one clamp or to be brought into operative or engagement connection with at least one clamp in order to fasten the fastening device to the outside of the panel by means of the clamp.

[0026] By attaching the electrical box to the outside of the panel as described above—that is, to a side of the panel not visible from the room—using the mounting device, the mounting device can be concealed behind the panel, behind the wall, and / or behind the ceiling of the room. In contrast, prior art typically involves attaching the respective mounting devices for the electrical boxes to the inside of the wall or ceiling, which is visible from the room. In other words, the electrical box described herein allows for rear mounting of the electrical box to the panel, whereas prior art generally provides for front mounting on the respective wall. Mounting the electrical boxes on the inside of the respective wall or ceiling is generally necessary in prior art because the electrical boxes are usually installed on an existing wall or ceiling.They must be mounted on a ceiling, since the outside of the respective wall or ceiling is usually not accessible when installing electrical boxes according to current best practices.

[0027] Accordingly, the electrical box in question can improve the aesthetics of the installation and / or reduce the need for measures such as cover plates to conceal the mounting device. Furthermore, it allows for greater design freedom in the construction and / or configuration of the mounting device. For example, the mounting device can be made larger, since it can be positioned behind the panel, wall, and / or ceiling anyway. In contrast, current technology generally strives to make the mounting device as compact as possible to reduce its external visibility and facilitate its concealment.

[0028] The gripping interface can be a gripping interface specifically designed or set up for gripping by the handling robot. In contrast, conventional electrical boxes are not equipped or suitable for robotic handling. Standard cavity wall boxes are designed for installation on the room-facing side. Fastening devices and pre-molded connection options on conventional electrical boxes, which are suitable for various cable and hose diameters, sometimes create contours and / or geometries that are not grippable or suitable for automated processing. Furthermore, standard cavity wall boxes often have openings that also make gripping difficult or impossible, especially with a vacuum gripper.Especially with a vacuum gripper, a relatively large amount of air flows through the opening, preventing or rendering ineffective a suction connection between the junction box and the gripper. Conventional junction boxes often have a membrane or a knockout piece that must be removed during installation. Attempting automated processing with a handling robot would raise the problem of how to remove the knockout piece or penetrate the membrane. Since the membrane is typically made of deformable and / or relatively soft materials, such as rubber, electrical boxes are unsuitable for grippers of robotic handling devices, such as gripper fingers, as these would deform and / or damage the box during the gripping process.Due to the relatively soft membrane, a vacuum gripper might not be able to position the cavity wall box precisely enough for installation, especially within a specific opening in the wall. Therefore, the gripping interface of the electrical box described herein can be a gripping interface specifically designed or configured for gripping by the handling robot. For example, the gripping interface of the electrical box described herein can have a design that is adapted and / or coordinated with a design and / or at least one property, such as at least one size and / or geometry, of a gripper of the handling robot. For example, the gripping interface can have at least two gripping points configured for gripping by the handling robot.For example, the gripping points can be spaced apart and / or shaped in such a way that they can be grasped by the handling robot, allowing the electrical box to be moved and positioned by the robot. Alternatively, the gripping interface can have only one gripping point, which has a design, such as a shape and / or size, that allows it to engage with or be gripped by the handling robot. The gripping interface can be a substantially flat surface and / or a surface with less curvature than adjacent areas of the electrical box, and / or a closed or openingless surface, i.e., without any perforations, slots, etc.The flat surface and / or the surface with less curvature than adjacent areas of the electrical box, and / or the closed or open-ended surface, can be at least 5 cm², preferably at least 10 cm², preferably at least 15 cm², preferably at least 20 cm², preferably at least 25 cm², preferably at least 30 cm², preferably at least 35 cm², preferably at least 40 cm², preferably at least 45 cm², and preferably at least 50 cm². The flat surface and / or the surface with less curvature than adjacent areas of the electrical box, and / or the closed or open-ended surface, can be circular, annular, rectangular, or have other shapes.For example, the flat surface and / or the surface with less curvature than adjacent areas of the electrical box, and / or the closed or openless surface, can be an annular surface with a injection point located centrally or within the ring from a plastic injection molding process used to manufacture the electrical box. Alternatively, or additionally, the gripping interface can have a surface roughness suitable for gripping by the handling robot. Alternatively, or additionally, the gripping interface can have a stiffness, strength, and / or hardness suitable for gripping by the handling robot, for example, so that the electrical box is not damaged by gripping by the handling robot.Alternatively, or additionally, the gripping interface may have a material or be made of a material that differs from a material of one or more adjacent sections of the electrical box, in particular to improve the suitability of the gripping interface for being gripped by the handling robot.

[0029] The gripping interface is preferably located on a rearmost or distal surface or at a rearmost or distal end of the electrical box, relative to the inside to the outside of the panel. The gripping interface preferably points in a direction from the inside to the outside of the panel when the panel is mounted. The gripping interface is preferably substantially parallel to the inside and / or outside of the panel when the electrical box is attached to the panel. This improves the gripping interface's accessibility. The gripping interface is preferably free of rubber elements and / or detachable elements. The gripping interface is preferably made of a plastic material, preferably a rigid plastic material.

[0030] The electrical box preferably has a housing that is preferably formed in one piece or monolithically. Alternatively, the housing can be multi-part. Preferably, the gripping interface is formed in one piece or monolithically. The housing and / or the gripping interface is / are preferably free of perforations and / or free of rubber elements and / or free of detachable elements.

[0031] The gripping interface is preferably configured so that the handling robot can access or bring it into contact with the interface in a state where the electrical box is arranged as bulk material with multiple electrical boxes, or when the electrical box is arranged as bulk material with multiple electrical boxes. This allows the electrical box to be gripped directly from the bulk material and installed. This makes the processing and / or installation of the electrical box more efficient and / or faster.

[0032] Preferably at least one detection device, preferably an optical detection device, preferably at least one camera, is provided, which may be configured to detect an orientation of the electrical socket and / or the gripping interface, preferably to determine whether the gripping interface can come into contact with the handling robot or can be reached or brought into contact with it.

[0033] The gripping interface can have at least one identifying feature that identifies it as a gripping interface for a user and / or the handling robot, and / or that distinguishes it from at least one adjacent section of the electrical box. This makes it easier to detect and / or recognize the gripping interface, especially by the user and / or the handling robot. This facilitates the handling robot's gripping of the electrical box at the gripping interface, particularly by ensuring unambiguous detection of the gripping interface by the user and / or the handling robot. Furthermore, this ensures correct orientation of the electrical box during installation, for example, to prevent incorrect installation, such as incorrect orientation of the electrical box during assembly.The identifying feature can be, for example, a marking, such as an optical marking and / or an electronic marking (such as an RFID tag).

[0034] Preferably, the electrical box has at least one connection element. This connection element can be configured to be connected to at least one electrical conductor in order to connect the electrical box to the electrical conductor. In other words, the connection element can serve to couple the electrical box to the electrical conductor. The connection element can be arranged between the electrical box and the electrical conductor when the electrical box is connected to the electrical conductor.The connection element can have at least one recess which can be configured to at least partially accommodate at least one section of a handling robot, preferably one that grasps the electrical cable, and / or to allow at least one section of a handling robot, preferably one that grasps the electrical cable, to pass through the recess in order to connect the electrical cable to the connection element by means of the handling robot. This facilitates or improves the handling or grasping of the electrical cable by the handling robot. In particular, this allows the handling robot to grasp the electrical cable at points on the electrical cable that are not accessible when connecting the electrical cable to the electrical socket or...The connection element is inserted into the recess along the connection element, allowing the handling robot to better guide and / or position the electrical conductor when connecting it to the connection element. The recess is preferably elongated and / or U-shaped. The recess preferably extends along a length of at least 2.5 cm, preferably at least 5 cm, and preferably at least 7.5 cm, preferably along a longitudinal axis of the connection element and / or the electrical conductor.

[0035] Preferably, the connection element has at least two recesses. The recesses can be arranged on opposite sides of the connection element. This allows the handling robot to grip the electrical conductor at opposite gripping points along the conductor. When connecting the electrical conductor to the electrical box or the connection element, these points are inserted into the connection element along the recess, thus improving the guidance and / or positioning of the electrical conductor during connection by the handling robot.

[0036] The electrical box can be configured to be gripped and attached to the panel by a single handling robot. This makes the assembly process more efficient. Alternatively, multiple handling robots can be used, with at least one robot capable of gripping the electrical box and at least one other capable of attaching it to the panel.

[0037] Preferably, the connection element, in particular a longitudinal axis of the connection element, extends at least partially along the outside of the panel and / or substantially parallel to the outside of the panel. This allows for a relatively compact arrangement of the electrical box or the connection element and / or a space-saving positioning of the electrical cable. In particular, this reduces the space or distance extending from the outside of the panel, especially substantially perpendicular to the outside of the panel, required to accommodate or conceal the electrical box, particularly the connection element.

[0038] Alternatively, or additionally, the connection element can be configured so that the electrical conductor is connected to it along a direction extending along the outside of the panel and / or substantially parallel to the outside of the panel. This allows for a relatively compact arrangement of the electrical box or connection element and / or a space-saving positioning of the electrical conductor. In particular, this reduces the space or distance required to accommodate or conceal the electrical box, especially the connection element, extending from the outside of the panel, particularly at a substantially perpendicular distance.

[0039] Preferably, the electrical box has at least one stop. This stop can be designed to rest, at least partially, against the outer surface of the panel to limit the insertion of the electrical box into an opening in the panel. This allows the position of the electrical box relative to the panel to be predefined and / or limited. This reduces tolerances regarding the position of the electrical box on the panel during installation. Furthermore, this can improve or facilitate robot-assisted installation of the electrical box by the handling robot, for example, by limiting the robot's travel path when mounting the socket to the panel.

[0040] Preferably, the electrical box has at least two mounting devices for attaching it to the outside of the panel. The mounting devices can be arranged on opposite sides of the electrical box. Preferably, the electrical box has at least one main body. Each mounting device can be designed as a tab, lug, or wing. The tabs (or lugs or wings) can extend away from the main body, preferably laterally, preferably by at least 2 cm, preferably by at least 3 cm, preferably by at least 4 cm, preferably by at least 5 cm, preferably by at least 6 cm, and preferably by at least 7 cm. The tabs can be designed as wings. Several components can be housed in the main body. For example, several electrical contact elements can be arranged in the main body.

[0041] Preferably, the electrical box has at least one contact, preferably several contacts, for connecting at least one cable, preferably several cables simultaneously, on the inside of the panel when the panel is mounted and the electrical box is attached to the panel. The electrical box may additionally have at least one connection for connecting at least one smart device. The electrical box may include the connection and / or the smart device. The smart device may be a smart home system or at least one component of a smart home system.

[0042] Preferably, the electrical box also includes at least one housing. The housing can be configured to at least partially accommodate at least one component, preferably at least the smart device. Preferably, the housing includes a cavity configured to at least partially, and preferably completely, accommodate the smart device. The cavity preferably has a volume of at least 0.5 cm³, preferably at least 1 cm³, preferably at least 2 cm³, preferably at least 3 cm³, preferably at least 4 cm³, preferably at least 5 cm³, preferably at least 10 cm³, preferably at least 15 cm³, preferably at least 20 cm³, and preferably at least 25 cm³. Preferably, the electrical box is configured such that the housing is located at least partially, and preferably completely, on the outside, i.e., behind the panel.This allows the housing and its components to be tucked away behind the panel from a perspective within the building's interior, resulting in a relatively tidy and aesthetically pleasing arrangement. The housing is preferably a single piece or monolithic. Alternatively, the housing can be multi-part. The housing and / or the gripping interface is / are preferably free of perforations, rubber elements, and / or detachable elements. Preferably, the electrical box, preferably including the smart device, is designed as a coherent unit. This allows the electrical box, preferably including the smart device, to be transported and installed as a single unit, thus facilitating handling and / or installation.

[0043] The aforementioned problem is also solved by a fixing element. Advantageous embodiments with expedient further developments of the invention are specified in the respective dependent claims and in the following description.

[0044] The fixing element can be configured to fix at least one electrical conductor to an object, preferably a panel, for example, a panel as described herein (for example, above). The fixing element can have at least one fastening section. The fastening section can be configured to attach the fixing element to the object, preferably the panel. The fixing element can have at least one receiving section, which can be configured to at least partially receive the electrical conductor. The fixing element can have at least one gripping feature. The gripping feature can be configured to be grasped by at least one handling robot, in particular to engage with it, preferably to position the fixing element on the panel, and preferably to attach it to the object or panel.

[0045] In the prior art, electrical cables are generally attached manually, i.e., by hand, to a corresponding object, for example, a panel. In contrast to the prior art, the fixing element described herein enables robot-assisted, preferably fully automated, fixing of the corresponding electrical cable(s) to the corresponding object, preferably a panel, in particular by means of a gripping feature configured (preferably specifically) for grasping by the handling robot and the subsequent handling and / or positioning of the fixing element by the handling robot. This allows the electrical cable(s) to be fixed relatively quickly and / or efficiently compared to manual fastening in the prior art.

[0046] Furthermore, this allows the electrical cable to be fixed to the object, particularly the panel, especially in larger quantities, for example in a production hall, instead of directly at the final assembly point, such as a construction site. The panel, with the electrical cable attached using the fixing element, can then be mounted as part of a wall and / or ceiling in a room of the respective building. This allows the assembly process for mounting the electrical cable(s) to be made relatively efficient, for example in one or more production lines. This, in turn, allows for a significant increase in the number of pre-assembled panels, especially compared to manually assembling the electrical cables, particularly on-site at the final assembly point, such as a construction site.

[0047] Furthermore, this allows the electrical wires to be mounted more precisely, i.e., with less deviation from a target position, on the object, preferably a panel, compared to manual assembly. This can, for example, prevent or at least reduce assembly errors. In addition, it can generally lead to a higher assembly quality.

[0048] The fixing element can be designed as a clamp, for example as a single or double clamp, and / or as a clip.

[0049] The receiving section can be configured to at least partially enclose the electrical conductor. For example, the receiving section can be configured to extend, in the assembled state, at least over and / or around a circumference of the electrical conductor, for example over and / or around at least 30%, preferably at least 40%, preferably at least 50% of a circumference of the electrical conductor, in particular to at least partially enclose the electrical conductor.

[0050] The fastening section can have at least one fastening surface, preferably several fastening surfaces, which can be configured to at least partially receive at least one fastening element, for example at least one screw, in order to fasten the fixing element to the panel by interaction of the fastening element with the panel. Alternatively, or additionally, the fastening element can be formed on the fastening surface, for example in one piece or monolithically, and / or attached to the fastening surface, in particular pre-assembled.

[0051] The fixing element can be configured to be gripped and attached to the object or panel by a single handling robot. This makes the assembly process more efficient. Alternatively, multiple handling robots can be used, with at least one robot capable of gripping the fixing element and at least one other capable of attaching it to the object or panel.

[0052] The gripping feature can have one or more gripping surfaces on which the handling robot can grip, preferably dock. Preferably, the gripping feature, preferably the gripping surface, is a substantially flat surface or has at least one substantially flat surface. This facilitates gripping the fixing element by the handling robot. In particular, this improves the seal, especially a fluid-tight connection, between the gripping feature, preferably the gripping surface, and the handling robot, or at least reduces the risk of leakage between the gripping feature, preferably the gripping surface, and the handling robot, especially if the handling robot is configured to grip the fixing element by means of a vacuum that can be generated by the handling robot.

[0053] Preferably, the fastening section is arranged at a first end of the fixing element, and the gripping feature is arranged at a second end of the fixing element opposite the first end. This facilitates both the fastening of the fixing element to the panel using the fastening section and the gripping of the fixing element by the gripping feature, in particular by avoiding or at least reducing potential negative interactions during fastening the fixing element to the panel using the fastening section and during gripping the fixing element by the gripping feature, for example, due to lack of space and / or collisions of corresponding tools. Alternatively, the gripping feature and the fastening section can be arranged on separate sections of the fixing element and / or at least partially overlapping.For example, the gripping feature can be located in at least one area of ​​the fastening section.

[0054] Alternatively, or additionally, the fastening section can be arranged at an end and / or distal section of the fixing element that is distal to the gripping feature.

[0055] Preferably, the gripping feature, more preferably the substantially flat surface, is configured to be gripped by means of a vacuum generated by the handling robot or existing at a gripping interface of the handling robot configured to grip the fixing element. Alternatively, or additionally, the fixing element can be configured to be gripped by the handling robot by clamping and / or clamping at the gripping feature. Preferably, the fixing element has at least one rib, which is preferably formed on a surface of the fixing element facing the electrical conductor, if the electrical conductor is at least partially enclosed in the receiving section.The rib can serve to stiffen the fixing element and / or to lock the electrical conductor in at least one direction, preferably along a longitudinal axis of the electrical conductor, when the electrical conductor is attached to the panel by means of the fixing element. The rib can be configured to interact with the electrical conductor and / or with a sheath in which the electrical conductor is arranged when the electrical conductor is attached to the panel by means of the fixing element. In particular, the rib can be configured to engage in at least one recess formed in the electrical conductor and / or in the sheath when the electrical conductor is attached to the panel by means of the fixing element.For example, the electrical conductor can be arranged inside a corrugated conduit, with the rib being designed to engage in at least one groove of the conduit, which may be located on an outer surface of the conduit. This can, for example, increase the pull-out resistance of the electrical conductor.

[0056] The aforementioned problem is also solved by a device. Advantageous embodiments with expedient further developments of the invention are specified in the respective dependent claims and in the following description. The advantages, features, and embodiments described above for the electrical socket also apply accordingly to the device.

[0057] The device can be designed to be mounted as part of a wall and / or ceiling of a room in a building. The device can have a panel which, when mounted, may have an inside facing the room and an outside facing away from the room. The device can have an opening, which may be defined in the panel. The device can have at least one electrical box, which may be mounted and / or attached to the outside of the panel and may extend at least partially through the opening.

[0058] The device described herein, particularly in the preceding paragraph, allows the electrical box to be positioned or mounted on the outside of the panel, i.e., on a side of the panel not visible from the room, concealed behind the panel or behind the wall and / or ceiling of the room. In contrast, prior art typically involves mounting electrical boxes on the visible inside of the wall or ceiling using at least one fastening device. In other words, the device described herein enables rear mounting of the electrical box to the panel, whereas prior art provides for front mounting on the respective wall. Mounting electrical boxes on the inside of the respective wall or ceiling is generally necessary in the prior art because the electrical boxes are usually attached to an existing wall or ceiling.The electrical boxes can be mounted on a suspended ceiling, as the exterior of the respective wall or ceiling is generally inaccessible with conventional mounting methods. Therefore, the present device can improve the aesthetics of the installation and / or reduce the need for measures such as the use of cover plates to conceal the mounting hardware. Furthermore, it allows for greater design freedom in the construction and / or configuration of the electrical box, particularly its mounting hardware for attaching it to the panel. For example, the mounting hardware can be made larger, as it can be positioned behind the panel, wall, and / or ceiling.In contrast, current technology generally strives to make the respective fastening device as compact and / or inconspicuous as possible in order to reduce the external visibility of the fastening device or to make it easier to conceal the fastening device.

[0059] The device described herein, including one or more components attached to the device, can be designed to be prefabricated as a module, preferably as a coherent unit. This allows the module to be installed as a single, integrated unit, for example, on a construction site. This facilitates and increases the efficiency of the assembly of the device, particularly of the components attached to it.

[0060] The panel can be a drywall element, a wooden board, a plastic panel, a hollow panel, or another panel element.

[0061] Preferably, the device has at least one electrical conductor, which may be connected to the electrical box and may run at least partially along the outside of the panel. Preferably, the device may have at least one fixing element, which may be configured to fix the electrical conductor to the outside of the panel. Preferably, the fixing element is configured according to one of the embodiments described herein.

[0062] Preferably, the electrical socket is configured according to one of the embodiments described herein.

[0063] The aforementioned problem is also solved by a tool. Advantageous embodiments with expedient further developments of the invention are specified in the respective dependent claims and in the following description. The advantages, features, and embodiments described above for the electrical socket also apply accordingly to the device.

[0064] The tool can be configured to be mounted on a tool holder of a handling robot. The tool can be configured to grip an electrical box, preferably an electrical box according to one of the embodiments described herein, at at least one gripping interface of the electrical box and to position the electrical box on a panel. Preferably, the panel is configured to be mounted as part of a wall and / or ceiling of a room in a building.

[0065] The tool can be configured as a vacuum gripper and / or finger gripper and / or the tool can have at least one gripping head which can be configured as a vacuum gripper and / or finger gripper.

[0066] Preferably, the gripping tool is designed to attach the electrical box to the panel.

[0067] Preferably, the tool is configured to attach at least one electrical conductor, which is connected or connectable to the electrical box, to the panel, preferably by means of at least one fixing element, preferably by means of at least one fixing element according to one of the embodiments described herein. The advantages, features, and designs described above for the fixing element also apply accordingly to the tool.

[0068] Preferably, the tool is configured to connect at least one electrical conductor to the electrical box. The aforementioned problem is also solved by a handling robot. Advantageous embodiments with expedient further developments of the invention are specified in the respective dependent claims and in the following description.

[0069] The handling robot has at least one tool holder and at least one tool mounted and / or mountable on the tool holder, preferably at least one tool mounted and / or mountable on the tool holder according to one of the embodiments described herein.

[0070] The aforementioned problem is also solved by a method for assembling a device. Advantageous embodiments with expedient further developments of the invention are specified in the respective dependent claims and in the following description. The advantages, features, and exemplary embodiments described herein for the electrical box, the device, and the fixing element according to the invention apply accordingly to the method.

[0071] The device can be designed to be mounted as part of a wall and / or ceiling of a room in a building.

[0072] The procedure can exhibit:

[0073] (a) Providing a panel which has an inside facing the room and an outside facing away from the room, in a mounted state of the panel.

[0074] The procedure can exhibit:

[0075] (b) Gripping at least one electrical socket at at least one gripping interface using at least one handling robot;

[0076] The procedure can exhibit:

[0077] (c) Positioning the electrical box on the outside of the panel using the handling robot.

[0078] The procedure can exhibit:

[0079] (d) Attaching the electrical box to the outside of the panel. Preferably, step (d) is carried out using the handling robot or at least one other handling robot.

[0080] Preferably the method has:

[0081] Gripping at least one electrical line using the handling robot or using at least one other handling robot.

[0082] Preferably the method has:

[0083] Positioning the electrical conductor on the outside of the panel using the handling robot or at least one other handling robot.

[0084] Preferably the method has:

[0085] Connecting the electrical cable to at least one connection element of the electrical box using the handling robot or using at least one other handling robot to connect the electrical box to the electrical cable.

[0086] Preferably, the connection element has at least one recess. Preferably, when connecting the electrical cable to the connection element using the handling robot, the handling robot is at least partially received by the recess of the connection and / or the handling robot is at least partially moved through the recess.

[0087] Preferably, the electrical box is arranged as bulk material with several electrical boxes before and / or during step (b), preferably in a container.

[0088] Preferably step (b) includes:

[0089] The handling robot grips the electrical box at the gripping interface in a state where the electrical box is arranged as bulk material with multiple electrical boxes, preferably with several of the same type, or when the electrical box is arranged as bulk material with multiple electrical boxes. In other words, the handling robot can grip the electrical box directly from the bulk material. This allows the processing and / or assembly of the electrical box to be made more efficient and / or faster.

[0090] Preferably, the method comprises, before and / or during step (b): detection, preferably by means of at least one detection device, preferably at least one optical detection device, preferably at least one camera, an orientation of the electrical socket and / or the gripping interface.

[0091] Preferably the procedure includes before or during step (b):

[0092] Determine whether the gripping interface can come into contact with the handling robot, or is reachable or bringable, preferably based on the detected orientation of the electrical box and / or the gripping interface.

[0093] The procedure described herein is not restricted to the order in which the steps are described herein. Instead, the steps can be performed in any order.

[0094] The aforementioned problem is also solved by a table for machining and / or assembling components and / or materials. The table can have a machining surface on which the components and / or materials can be machined and / or assembled. The table can have at least one movable structural element. The movable structural element can be movable between a first position, in which the structural element forms and / or defines a section of the machining surface, and a second position, preferably such that the movement of the structural element from the first position to the second position creates at least one opening in the machining surface. Preferably, the structural element is at least partially removed from the machining surface in the second position.

[0095] The table's configuration, particularly the movable structural element, allows machining tools, such as milling, drilling, and / or sawing tools, to partially extend through the opening when the structural element is open (i.e., when it is in its second position). This prevents collisions between the machining tool and the table. Prior art often uses a sacrificial plate on the machining table to protect it. The table described here eliminates the need for such a sacrificial plate. This improves the manufacturing accuracy of the component and / or material, as repetitive readjustment through the replacement of a sacrificial plate is no longer necessary.

[0096] Furthermore, this can increase the level of automation in the processing and / or assembly of the component and / or material, thereby reducing manual intervention. This can reduce personnel costs and increase overall productivity. As a result, the manufacturing costs of the component and / or material can be lowered.

[0097] Alternatively or additionally, the movable structural element can facilitate access to the respective component and / or material located on the machining surface, for example, access by a user and / or a machining tool and / or an assembly tool. This can facilitate the machining and / or assembly process of the component and / or material.

[0098] The table can be set up for working on and / or assembling the device described herein, for example above, which is designed to be mounted as part of a wall and / or ceiling of a room in a building.

[0099] The structural element can essentially close the opening in the machining surface when it is in the second position. Conversely, the structural element can essentially open the opening when it is in the first position. Therefore, the first position can be described as the closed position and the second position as the open position.

[0100] The machining surface can be essentially continuous or partially interrupted or discontinuous when the structural element (or each structural element if multiple structural elements are provided) is in the first position.

[0101] The movable structural element can be elongated, preferably as an elongated plate.

[0102] The table can have at least one clamping system that can be configured to fix the component and / or material to the table, preferably to the machining surface. This allows the component and / or material to be aligned and fixed during machining and / or assembly.

[0103] Preferably, the movable structural element is designed as a flap, or preferably, the movable structural element has at least one flap. The flap can be pivoted between the first position and the second position and / or foldable from the first position to the second position, preferably downwards, relative to an operating state of the table. For example, the structural element can be hinged to the table via at least one hinge.

[0104] Preferably, the table has a plurality of the at least one movable structural element. Preferably, the movable structural elements are arranged in series.

[0105] Preferably, the movable structural elements form or define a total of at least 30%, preferably at least 40%, preferably at least 50%, preferably at least 60%, preferably at least 70%, preferably at least 80% of the machining surface.

[0106] Preferably, the table has at least two segments or zones. Preferably, each segment or zone defines or forms part of the machining surface. This allows for multiple machining or assembly stations to be provided on the table. For example, each segment or zone can be used for different machining or assembly steps. Alternatively or additionally, this allows for the simultaneous machining of multiple components and / or materials on the table. This increases the table's functionality.

[0107] Preferably, the segments or zones are arranged opposite each other or on opposite sides of the table. Preferably, the segments or zones are movable relative to each other, preferably pivotable.

[0108] Each segment of the segments or each zone of the zones can have at least one, preferably several, of the at least one movable structural element.

[0109] Preferably the table has at least one rotating frame which may be configured to rotate the machining surface at least partially, preferably by at least 90°, preferably at least 180°, preferably at least 270°, preferably at least 360°, preferably about a vertical axis of the table, particularly with regard to an operating state of the table.

[0110] Preferably, the table has at least one drive system configured to move the movable structural element(s) between the first position and the second position. Preferably, the drive system is configured to move each movable structural element individually between the first and second positions if multiple movable structural elements are provided. This allows each movable structural element to be selectively controlled as needed.

[0111] Preferably, the drive system is configured to move several movable structural elements simultaneously between the first and second positions when a plurality of movable structural elements are provided. This allows, for example, several structural elements to be controlled in groups.

[0112] Preferably, the table has at least one lifting device configured to at least partially lift the component or material being or having been machined or assembled on the machining surface. This makes it easier to remove the component or material from the table, for example, after machining or assembly. The lifting device can have at least one contact element, preferably several, which can be configured to be brought into contact with the component or material, for example, by a drive device or manually by a user, and to at least partially lift the component or material from the machining surface, for example, by the drive device or manually by a user. The contact element can be designed as a rod or a plate.

[0113] Preferably, the lifting device is designed as a folding device, which is configured to fold up the component or material that is or has been machined or mounted on the machining surface, preferably by an angle of at least 20°, preferably at least 30°, preferably at least 40°, preferably at least 50°, preferably at least 60°, preferably at least 70°.

[0114] Preferably, the lifting device has at least one activation element, preferably at least one lever, preferably at least one rotary lever, which is designed to be actuated by a user in order to at least partially lift the component or material that is being or has been machined or mounted on the machining surface from the machining surface. The following list of aspects represents alternative and / or additional features of the invention:

[0115] 1. An electrical box designed to be attached to an object, preferably a plate, preferably a panel, wherein the panel is designed to be mounted on a building, preferably on a wall and / or ceiling of a room of the building, preferably as part of the wall and / or ceiling of the room, wherein the panel has an inside, preferably facing the room, and an outside, preferably facing away from the room, in a mounted state of the panel, wherein the electrical box comprises:

[0116] at least one fastening device designed to attach the electrical box to the outside of the panel; and

[0117] at least one gripping interface which is designed to be accessed by at least one handling robot, preferably to position the electrical box on the panel using the handling robot.

[0118] 2. The electrical box according to aspect 1, additionally comprising at least one connection element which is configured to be connected to at least one electrical conductor in order to connect the electrical box to the electrical conductor, wherein the connection element has at least one recess which is configured to at least partially receive at least one section of a handling robot which grasps the electrical conductor and / or to allow at least one section of a handling robot which grasps the electrical conductor to pass through the recess in order to connect the electrical conductor to the connection element by means of the handling robot.

[0119] 3. The electrical box according to aspect 2, wherein the connection element has at least two recesses arranged on opposite sides of the connection element.

[0120] 4. The electrical socket according to aspect 2 or 3, wherein:

[0121] the connecting element, in particular a longitudinal axis of the connecting element, extends at least partially along the outside of the panel and / or substantially parallel to the outside of the panel;

[0122] and / or the connection element is configured so that the electrical conductor is connected to the connection element in a direction extending along the outside of the panel and / or substantially parallel to the outside of the panel.

[0123] The electrical box according to one of the preceding aspects, additionally having at least one stop designed to rest at least partially against the outside of the panel in order to limit the insertion of the electrical box into an opening of the panel.

[0124] The electrical box according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein the electrical box has at least two fastening devices designed to fasten the electrical box to the outside of the panel, the fastening devices being arranged on opposite sides of the electrical box.

[0125] The electrical box according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein the electrical box has at least one main body, wherein the fastening device is designed as a tab extending away from the main body, preferably laterally, preferably by at least 2 cm, preferably by at least 3 cm, preferably by at least 4 cm, preferably by at least 5 cm, preferably by at least 6 cm, preferably by at least 7 cm.

[0126] The electrical box according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein the electrical box has at least one contact for connecting at least one cable on the inside of the panel when the panel is in a mounted state and the electrical box is attached to the panel, wherein the electrical box additionally has at least one connection for connecting at least one smart device, preferably wherein the electrical box has the connection and / or the smart device.

[0127] The electrical box according to aspect 8, additionally comprising at least one housing designed to at least partially accommodate the smart device, preferably wherein the electrical box is designed such that the housing is at least partially, preferably completely, located on the outside.

[0128] An electrical box according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein the electrical box is configured as a coherent unit. A fixing element configured to fix at least one electrical conductor to an object, preferably a panel, wherein the fixing element comprises:

[0129] at least one fastening section designed to attach the fixing element to the panel;

[0130] at least one gripping feature designed to be engaged by at least one handling robot in order to position the fixing element on the panel;

[0131] preferably at least one receiving section designed to receive at least part of the electrical conductor.

[0132] The fixing element according to aspect 11, wherein:

[0133] the gripping feature is an essentially flat surface;

[0134] or

[0135] the gripping feature has at least a substantially flat surface.

[0136] The fixing element according to aspect 11 or 12, wherein the fastening section:

[0137] is arranged at a first end of the fixing element and the gripping feature is arranged at a second end of the fixing element opposite the first end;

[0138] and / or

[0139] is located at the distal end and / or distal section of the fixing element from the gripping feature.

[0140] The fixing element according to one of aspects 11 to 13, wherein the gripping feature, preferably the substantially flat surface, is configured to be gripped by means of a vacuum generated by the handling robot or prevailing at a gripping interface of the handling robot which is configured to grip the fixing element.

[0141] The fixing element according to one of aspects 11 to 14, additionally comprising at least one rib, which is preferably formed on a surface of the fixing element facing the electrical conductor, if the electrical conductor is at least partially received in the receiving section.

[0142] A device designed to be mounted on a building, preferably on a wall and / or ceiling of a room of the building, preferably as part of the wall and / or ceiling, wherein the device comprises: a panel having an inside, preferably facing the room, and an outside, preferably facing away from the room, in a mounted state of the panel;

[0143] at least one electrical box mounted and / or attached to the outside of the panel and extending at least partially through the opening; preferably at least one opening defined in the panel and preferably through which the electrical box extends at least partially.

[0144] The device according to aspect 16, additionally comprising at least one electrical conductor which is connected to the electrical box and runs at least partially along the outside of the panel.

[0145] The device aspect 17, additionally comprising at least one fixing element which is configured to fix the electrical conductor to the outside of the panel, preferably wherein the fixing element is configured according to one of aspects 11 to 17.

[0146] The device according to one of aspects 16 to 18, wherein the electrical box is configured according to one of aspects 1 to 10.

[0147] A tool that is configured to be mounted on a tool holder of a handling robot, wherein the tool is configured to grip an electrical box, preferably an electrical box according to one of aspects 1 to 10, at at least one gripping interface of the electrical box and to position the electrical box on a panel, preferably wherein the panel is configured to be mounted on a wall and / or ceiling of a room of a building, preferably as part of the wall and / or ceiling.

[0148] The tool according to aspect 20, wherein the gripping tool is designed to attach the electrical box to the panel.

[0149] The tool according to aspect 20 or 21, wherein the tool is configured to attach at least one electrical conductor, which is connected or connectable to the electrical box, to the panel, preferably by means of at least one fixing element, preferably by means of at least one fixing element according to one of aspects 11 to 15.

[0150] The tool according to one of aspects 20 to 22, wherein the tool is designed to connect at least one electrical line to the electrical box.

[0151] A handling robot with at least one tool holder and at least one tool mounted and / or mountable on the tool holder according to one of aspects 20 to 23.

[0152] A table for processing and / or assembling components and / or materials, comprising:

[0153] a machining surface on which the components and / or materials can be machined and / or assembled,

[0154] at least one movable structural element which is movable between a first position, in which the structural element forms or defines a section of the machining surface, and a second position, such that the movement of the structural element from the first position to the second position creates or releases at least one opening in the machining surface, optionally wherein the structural element in the second position is at least partially removed from the machining surface.

[0155] The table according to aspect 25, wherein the movable structural element is designed as a flap or has at least one flap, wherein the flap is pivotable or foldable from the first position to the second position, preferably downwards.

[0156] The table according to aspect 25 or 26, wherein the table has a plurality of at least one movable structural element.

[0157] The table according to aspect 27, in which the movable structural elements are arranged in series.

[0158] The table according to aspect 27 or 28, wherein the movable structural elements comprise a total of at least 30%, preferably at least 40%, preferably at least 50%, preferably at least 60%, preferably at least 70%, preferably at least 80% of the machining surface. The table according to any one of aspects 25 to 29, wherein the table has at least two segments arranged on opposite sides of the table, the segments being movable relative to each other.

[0159] The table according to one of aspects 25 to 30, additionally comprising a rotating frame which is designed to rotate the machining surface at least partially, preferably by at least 90°, preferably by at least 180°, preferably by a vertical axis of the table.

[0160] The table according to one of aspects 25 to 31, additionally comprising at least one drive system designed to move the movable structural element or elements between the first position and the second position.

[0161] The table according to aspect 32, wherein the drive system is configured to move each movable structural element of the movable structural elements individually or separately between the first position and the second position, if a plurality of movable structural elements is provided.

[0162] The table according to aspect 32 or 33, wherein the drive system is configured to move several movable structural elements simultaneously between the first position and the second position, if a plurality of movable structural elements is provided.

[0163] The table according to one of aspects 25 to 34, additionally comprising at least one lifting device which is designed to lift the component or material which is being or has been machined or mounted on the machining surface at least partially from the machining surface.

[0164] The table according to aspect 35, wherein the lifting device is designed as a folding device which is set up to fold up the component or material which is or has been machined or mounted on the machining surface from the machining surface.

[0165] The table according to aspect 35 or 36, wherein the lifting device has at least one activation element, preferably at least one lever, which is designed to be operated by a user in order to at least partially lift the component or material that is or has been machined or mounted on the machining surface from the machining surface.

[0166] A method for assembling a device designed to be mounted on a wall and / or ceiling of a room in a building, preferably as part of the wall and / or ceiling, wherein the method comprises:

[0167] (a) Providing a panel having an inside, preferably facing the room, and an outside, facing away from the room, in a mounted state of the panel;

[0168] (b) Gripping at least one electrical socket at at least one gripping interface using at least one handling robot;

[0169] (c) Positioning the electrical box on the outside of the panel using the handling robot;

[0170] (d) Attaching the electrical box to the outside of the panel.

[0171] The procedure according to aspect 38, wherein step (d) is carried out using the handling robot or using at least one other handling robot.

[0172] The procedure according to aspect 38 or 39, additionally showing:

[0173] Gripping at least one electrical line using the handling robot or using at least one other handling robot;

[0174] Positioning the electrical conductor on the outside of the panel using the handling robot or at least one other handling robot;

[0175] Connecting the electrical cable to at least one connection element of the electrical box using the handling robot or using at least one other handling robot to connect the electrical box to the electrical cable.

[0176] The method according to aspect 40, wherein the connection element has at least one recess and wherein, when connecting the electrical line to the connection element by means of the handling robot, the handling robot is at least partially received by the recess of the connection and / or the handling robot is moved at least partially through the recess.

[0177] The method according to one of aspects 38 to 41, wherein step (b) comprises: grasping the electrical box at the gripping interface by means of the handling robot in a state in which the electrical box is arranged as bulk material with several electrical boxes, preferably with several of the same electrical box, preferably in a container.

[0178] Further advantages, features, and details of the invention will become apparent from the following description of a preferred embodiment and from the drawings. The features and combinations of features mentioned above in the description, as well as those mentioned below in the figure description and / or shown in the figures alone, can be used not only in the combinations specified, but also in other combinations or individually, without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0179] Figures 1A and 1B show, in schematic and perspective views, a state-of-the-art electrical installation.

[0180] Fig. 2 shows, in a schematic cross-sectional view, an electrical box according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0181] Fig. 3 shows, in a further schematic cross-sectional view, the electrical box from Fig. 2;

[0182] Fig. 4 shows, in a schematic and perspective view, the electrical box from Figs. 2 and 3;

[0183] Fig. 5 shows, in a further schematic and perspective view, the electrical box from Figs. 2 to 4;

[0184] Fig. 6 shows, in a schematic front view, the electrical box from Figs. 2 to 5;

[0185] Fig. 7 shows, in a schematic and perspective view, an electrical socket according to a further embodiment of the present invention;

[0186] Fig. 8 shows, in a further schematic and perspective view, the electrical box from Fig. 7;

[0187] Fig. 9 shows, in a schematic front view, the electrical box from Figs. 7 and 8; Fig. 10 shows, in a schematic cross-sectional view, the electrical box from Figs. 7 to 9;

[0188] Fig. 11 shows, in a further schematic cross-sectional view, the electrical box from Figs. 7 to 10;

[0189] Fig. 12 shows, in a schematic and perspective view, a fixing element according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0190] Fig. 13 shows, in a schematic front view, the fixing element from Fig. 12;

[0191] Fig. 14 shows, in a cross-sectional view along the line DD shown in Fig. 13, the fixing element from Figs. 12 and 13;

[0192] Fig. 15 shows, in a schematic cross-sectional view, the fixing element from Fig.

[0193] 12 to 14 in an assembled state;

[0194] Fig. 16 shows, in a schematic top view, the fixing element from Figs. 12 to 15;

[0195] Fig. 17 shows, in a schematic rear view, a device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0196] Fig. 18 shows, in a schematic front view, the device from Fig. 17;

[0197] Fig. 19 shows, in a schematic and perspective view, the device from Figs. 17 and 18;

[0198] Fig. 20 shows, in a further schematic and perspective view, the device from Figs. 17 to 19;

[0199] Fig. 21 shows, in a schematic and perspective view, a table according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0200] Fig. 22 shows, in a schematic top view, the table from Fig. 21; Fig. 23 shows, in a schematic and perspective view, the table from Fig.

[0201] 21 and 22;

[0202] Fig. 24 shows, in a schematic and perspective view, the table from Fig.

[0203] 21 to 23.

[0204] As described at the outset, electrical installations in the prior art are generally carried out manually, usually on-site at the respective building, for example, at a construction site. However, such manual processes require skilled and / or costly labor. This leads to considerable production costs and relatively low efficiency. Figures 1A and 1B show, in schematic and perspective views, a typical prior art electrical installation. In particular, an electrical box or electrical installation 10 is attached to an inner surface 12 of a wall 14, for example, by means of screws 16. The electrical box or electrical installation 10 has several conductors 18, which include an electrical cable 18A and a corrugated conduit 18B. The conductors 18 extend through an opening 20 defined in the wall 14.The electrical box or electrical installation 10 is inserted into the opening 20 on the inside 12 of the wall 14 during installation and then fastened to the wall 14 using the screws. The screws 16 can be loosened to remove the electrical box or electrical installation 10 from the opening 20 if necessary.

[0205] Figures 2 to 6 show an electrical installation or an electrical box 30 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The electrical box 30 can be configured to be attached to a panel 31. The panel 31 can be a drywall element, a wooden board, a plastic sheet, a hollow panel, or another panel element. The panel 31 can be configured to be mounted as part of a wall 32 and / or a ceiling 32 of a room 37 of a building. The panel 31 can have an inner side 33 facing the room and an outer side 34 facing away from the room 37, based on a mounted state of the panel 31.

[0206] The electrical box 30 can have at least one fastening device 38, which may be configured to fasten the electrical box 30 to the outer surface 34 of the panel 31, for example by means of screws, clips, clamps, etc. The fastening device 38 can have at least one fastening surface 40, preferably several fastening surfaces 40. The fastening surface 40 can be configured to at least partially receive at least one fastening element, for example at least one screw, in order to fasten the electrical box 30 to the panel 31 by interaction of the fastening element with the panel 31. Alternatively, or additionally, the fastening element can be formed on the fastening surface 40, for example in one piece or monolithically, and / or be attached to the fastening surface 40, in particular pre-assembled.

[0207] The electrical box 30 can have a main body 44 which, for example, can extend through an opening 46 formed in the panel 31 when the electrical box 30 is mounted on the panel 31. The fastening device 38 can extend away from the main body 44, preferably laterally. For example, the fastening device 38 can have two tabs 48, each extending away from the main body 36.

[0208] The main body 44 can contain several electrical contact elements. The main body 44 can have an opening 50 which may be configured to at least partially receive an electrical plug of a device, for example a household appliance, in order to electrically connect the electrical plug to the electrical socket 30 in order to supply the device with power.

[0209] The electrical box 30 can have at least one gripping interface 52, which can be configured to be gripped by at least one handling robot 53 (see Fig. 3), i.e., to come into engagement with it in order to position the electrical box 30 on the panel 31 by means of the handling robot 53. The gripping interface 52 can have a design specifically adapted for gripping by the handling robot 53, in particular a corresponding dimension and / or shape and / or contour. For example, the gripping interface 52 can have a design that is adapted and / or coordinated with a design, for example, with at least one size and / or shape and / or contour, of a gripper of the handling robot 53.For example, the gripping interface 52 can have at least two gripping points 52A, 52B, preferably at least two opposing gripping points, which are configured to be gripped by the handling robot 53. For example, the gripping points 52A, 52B can be spaced apart from each other and / or shaped such that they can be gripped by the handling robot 53. Alternatively, the gripping interface 52 can also have only one gripping point, which, for example, has a shape and / or size that allows it to engage with or be gripped by the handling robot 53. The gripping interface 52 or the gripping point can, for example, be a substantially flat surface. A tool 55 can be mounted on or be mounted on a tool holder 57 of the handling robot 53.The tool 55 can be set up to grip the electrical box 30 at the gripping interface 52 of the electrical box 30 and to position the electrical box 30 on the panel 31.

[0210] The electrical box 30 can have at least one connection element 58 with a longitudinal axis LA, which can be configured to be connected to at least one electrical conductor 59 in order to connect the electrical box 30 to the electrical conductor 59. The connection element 58 can have at least one recess 60. The recess 60 can be configured to at least partially accommodate at least one section of a handling robot 61 (see Fig. 3) that grasps the electrical conductor 59 when connecting the electrical conductor 59 to the connection element 58, and / or to allow at least one section of the handling robot 61 that grasps the electrical conductor 59 to pass through the recess 60.

[0211] The connection element 58, in particular its longitudinal axis LA, can extend at least partially along the outer surface 34 of the panel 31 and / or substantially parallel to the outer surface 34 of the panel 31. Alternatively, or additionally, the connection element 58 can be configured to allow the electrical conductor 59 to be connected to the connection element 58 along a direction VR that extends along the outer surface 34 of the panel and / or substantially parallel to the outer surface 34 of the panel 31. In other words, the electrical conductor 59 can be moved along the direction VR when the electrical conductor 59 is connected to the connection element 58 by means of the handling robot 61.

[0212] The electrical box 30 can have at least one stop, which may be configured to bear against the outer surface 34 of the panel 31, at least in part, in order to limit the insertion of the electrical box 30 into the opening 46 of the panel 31. For example, the mounting device 38, more precisely the tabs 48, can have the stop or even form the stop itself. This allows a position of the electrical box 30 relative to the panel 31 to be predefined and / or maintained.

[0213] The electrical socket 30 can be set up as a coherent unit.

[0214] Figures 7 to 11 show a further embodiment of the electrical box 30, which can be combined with the embodiment shown in Figures 2 to 6. The electrical box 30 of Figures 7 to 11 can have at least one housing 64, which can be configured to at least partially, preferably completely, accommodate a smart device. The electrical box 30 can be configured such that the housing 64 is arranged at least partially, preferably completely, on the outer surface 34 of the panel 31 when the electrical box 30 is mounted on the panel 31 and the panel 31 is mounted on the wall or ceiling 32. The electrical box 30 can have at least one connection for connecting the smart device and / or a cable configured for connecting the electrical box 30 to the smart device.

[0215] The electrical box 30, including the housing 64 and the smart device arranged therein, can be set up as a coherent unit.

[0216] The main body 44 can accommodate several electrical contact elements. The main body 44 can have an opening 50, which may be configured to at least partially receive an electrical plug from a device, for example, a household appliance, in order to electrically connect the electrical plug to the electrical socket 30 and supply power to the device. As shown in Figures 7 to 11, the electrical socket 30 can be electrically connected to several electrical plugs, for example, to electrical plugs from several devices. For this purpose, the opening 50 can be dimensioned accordingly to at least partially receive the multiple electrical plugs and connect them electrically to the electrical socket 30.

[0217] Figures 12 to 16 show a fixing element 70, which can be configured to fix at least one electrical conductor 72 (see Figure 15) to a panel, for example the panel 31 from Figures 2, 3, 10 and 11. The fixing element 70 can have at least one fastening section 74, which can be configured to fasten the fixing element 70 to the panel 31, for example by means of screws, clips, clamps, etc.

[0218] The fixing element 70 can have at least one receiving section 76, which may be configured to at least partially receive the electrical conductor 72. The fixing element 70 can have at least one gripping feature 80, which may be configured to engage with at least one handling robot 82, for example by frictional and / or positive locking, in order to position the fixing element 70 on the panel 31.

[0219] The fastening section 74 can be arranged at a first end 84 of the fixing element 70, and the gripping feature 80 can be arranged at a second end 86 of the fixing element 70 opposite the first end 84. Alternatively, or additionally, the fastening section 74 can be arranged at an end 86 and / or distal section 86 of the fixing element 70 distal to the gripping feature 80.

[0220] Gripping feature 80 can be an essentially flat surface. Alternatively, gripping feature 80 can at least have an essentially flat surface.

[0221] The gripping feature 80 can be configured to be gripped by means of a vacuum generated by the handling robot 82 or at a gripping interface 88 of the handling robot 82, which is configured to grip the fixing element 70.

[0222] The fixing element 70 can have at least one rib 89 (see Fig. 14), which is preferably formed on a surface of the fixing element 70 facing the electrical conductor 72 when the electrical conductor 72 is at least partially received in the receiving section 76. The rib 89 can serve to stiffen the fixing element 70 and / or to lock the electrical conductor 72 in at least one direction, preferably along a longitudinal axis of the electrical conductor 72, when the electrical conductor 72 is attached to the panel 31 by means of the fixing element 70. The rib 89 can be configured to interact with the electrical conductor 72 and / or with a casing in which the electrical conductor 72 is arranged when the electrical conductor 72 is attached to the panel 31 by means of the fixing element 70.In particular, the rib 89 can be configured to engage in at least one recess formed in the electrical conductor 72 and / or in the casing when the electrical conductor 72 is attached to the panel 31 by means of the fixing element 70. For example, the electrical conductor 72 can be arranged in a corrugated tube, wherein the rib 89 can be configured to engage in at least one groove of the corrugated tube, which may be located on an outer surface of the corrugated tube. This can, for example, increase the pull-out resistance of the electrical conductor 72.

[0223] Figures 17 to 20 show a device 100 which can be configured to be mounted as part of a wall and / or ceiling of a room in a building, for example the wall or ceiling 32 shown in Figures 2 and 11.

[0224] The device 100 can have a panel, for example the panel 31 from Figs. 2, 3, 10 and 11, which can have an inside 33 facing the room and an outside 34 facing away from the room, in relation to a mounted state of the panel 31.

[0225] The device 100 can have an opening 102 which can be defined in the panel 31.

[0226] The device 100 can have at least one electrical box, for example the electrical box 30 from Figures 2 to 11, which can be mounted and / or attached to the outer surface 34 of the panel 31 and can extend at least partially through the opening 102. The device 100 can have several electrical boxes 30, which can be attached to the outer surface 34 of the panel 31.

[0227] The device 100 can additionally have at least one electrical conductor 104, preferably several electrical conductors 104, which is connected and / or connectable to the respective electrical box 30. The electrical conductor 104 can run at least partially along the outer surface 34 of the panel 31.

[0228] The device 100 can have at least one fixing element, preferably the fixing element 70 from Figures 12 to 16, which can be configured to fix the electrical conductor 104 to the outer surface 34 of the panel 31. The device 100 can have several fixing elements 70, as shown in Figures 17 and 19, to fix several electrical conductors 104 and / or at least one electrical conductor 104 at several locations or sections along the respective electrical conductor 104 on the panel 31.

[0229] Figures 20 to 24 show a table 200 for machining and / or assembling components and / or materials, in particular the device 100. The table 200 can have a machining surface 202 on which the components and / or materials can be machined and / or assembled. The table 200 can have at least one movable structural element 204, which can be moved between a first position, in which the structural element 204 forms or defines a section of the machining surface 202, and a second position, preferably in which the structural element 204 is at least partially removed from the machining surface 202, such that the movement of the structural element 204 from the first position to the second position forms or releases at least one opening 206 in the machining surface 202. The second position of the structural element 204 is shown in Figure 23.

[0230] The movable structural element 204 can be designed as a flap or have at least one flap. The flap 204 can be pivoted or folded away from the first position to the second position, preferably downwards. The table 200 can have a plurality of the at least one movable structural element 204. The movable structural elements 204 can be arranged in series.

[0231] The movable structural elements 204 can form a total of at least 30%, preferably at least 40%, preferably at least 50%, preferably at least 60%, preferably at least 70%, preferably at least 80% of the machining surface 202.

[0232] The table 200 can have at least one drive system 212 configured to move the movable structural element 204 or elements 204 between the first position and the second position. The drive system 212 can have at least one electric motor and / or at least one pneumatic drive device and / or at least one hydraulic drive device.

[0233] The drive system 212 can be configured to move each movable structural element of the movable structural elements 204 individually or separately between the first position and the second position when a plurality of movable structural elements 204 are provided.

[0234] The drive system 212 can be configured to move several movable structural elements of the movable structural elements 204 simultaneously between the first position and the second position if a plurality of movable structural elements 204 are provided.

[0235] The table 200 can have at least one lifting device 216, which can be configured to at least partially lift the component or material that is being or has been machined or mounted on the machining surface 202 from the machining surface 202. The lifting device 216 can have at least one contact element 217, preferably several contact elements 217, which can be configured to be brought into contact and / or connected with the component or material, for example by a drive device or manually by a user, and to at least partially lift the component or material from the machining surface 202, for example by the drive device or manually by a user. The contact element 217 can be designed as a rod or a plate.

[0236] The lifting device 216 can be designed as a folding device which can be configured to fold up the component or material that is or has been machined or mounted on the machining surface 202 from the machining surface 202.

[0237] The lifting device 216 can have at least one activation element 218, preferably at least one lever, which is designed to be actuated by a user in order to at least partially lift the component or material that is or has been machined or mounted on the machining surface 202 from the machining surface 202.

[0238] The table 200 can have at least two segments or zones 220 arranged on opposite sides of the table 200. The segments or zones can be movable relative to each other. The figures show two segments or zones 220A and 220B. However, more than two segments or zones can also be provided.

[0239] The table 200 can have a rotary device, preferably a rotary frame 226, which can be configured to rotate the machining surface 202 at least partially, preferably by at least 90°, preferably at least 180°, preferably about a vertical axis 230 of the table 200. The rotary device can have at least one pneumatic drive device and / or at least one hydraulic drive device, which is / are configured to drive the machining surface 202 in a rotating manner.

Claims

PATENT CLAIMS 1. An electrical box (30) designed to be attached to a panel (31), the panel (31) being designed to be mounted as part of a wall (32) and / or ceiling (32) of a room (37) of a building, the panel (31) having an inside (33) facing the room (37) and an outside (34) facing away from the room (37), in a mounted state of the panel (31), the electrical box (30) comprising: at least one fastening device (38) configured to fasten the electrical box (30) to the outside (34) of the panel (31); and at least one gripping interface (52) configured to be engaged by at least one handling robot (53) in order to position the electrical box (30) on the panel (31) by means of the handling robot (53).

2. The electrical box (30) according to claim 1, further comprising at least one connection element (58) which is configured to be connected to at least one electrical conductor (59) in order to connect the electrical box (30) to the electrical conductor (59), wherein the connection element (58) has at least one recess (60) which is configured to at least partially receive at least one section of a handling robot (61) which grasps the electrical conductor (59) and / or to allow at least one section of a handling robot (61) which grasps the electrical conductor (59) to pass through the recess (60) in order to connect the electrical conductor (59) to the connection element (58) by means of the handling robot (61).

3. The electrical box (30) according to claim 2, wherein the connection element (58) has at least two recesses (60) arranged on opposite sides of the connection element (58).

4. The electrical socket (30) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein: the connecting element (58), in particular a longitudinal axis (LA) of the connecting element (58), extends at least partially along the outside (34) of the panel (31) and / or substantially parallel to the outside (34) of the panel (31); and / or the connection element (58) is configured so that the electrical conductor (59) is connected to the connection element (58) in a direction extending along the outside (34) of the panel (31) and / or substantially parallel to the outside (34) of the panel (31).

5. The electrical box according to one of the preceding claims, additionally comprising at least one stop which is configured to bear at least partially against the outside of the panel in order to limit the insertion of the electrical box into an opening of the panel.

6. The electrical box according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the electrical box has at least two fastening devices which are provided for fastening the electrical box to the outside of the panel, wherein the fastening devices are arranged on opposite sides of the electrical box.

7. The electrical box according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the electrical box has at least one main body, wherein the fastening device is designed as a tab extending away from the main body, preferably laterally, preferably by at least 2 cm, preferably by at least 3 cm, preferably by at least 4 cm, preferably by at least 5 cm, preferably by at least 6 cm, preferably by at least 7 cm.

8. The electrical box according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the electrical box has at least one contact for connecting at least one cable on the inside of the panel when the panel is in a mounted state and the electrical box is attached to the panel, wherein the electrical box additionally has at least one connection for connecting at least one smart device, preferably wherein the electrical box has the connection and / or the smart device.

9. The electrical box according to claim 8, further comprising at least one housing configured to at least partially accommodate the smart device, preferably wherein the electrical box is configured such that the housing is arranged at least partially, preferably completely, on the outside.

10. The electrical socket according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the electrical socket is configured as a coherent unit.

11. A fixing element (70) configured to fix at least one electrical conductor (72) to a panel (31), wherein the fixing element (70) comprises: at least one fastening section (74) designed to attach the fixing element (70) to the panel (31); at least one receiving section (76) designed to receive at least part of the electrical conductor (72); and at least one gripping feature (80) which is configured to come into engagement contact with at least one handling robot (82) in order to position the fixing element on the panel (31).

12. The fixing element (70) according to claim 11, wherein: the gripping feature (80) is an essentially flat surface; or the gripping feature (80) has at least a substantially flat surface.

13. The fixing element according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the fastening section (74): is arranged at a first end (84) of the fixing element (70) and the gripping feature (80) is arranged at a second end (86) of the fixing element (70) opposite the first end (84); and / or is located at a distal end (84) and / or distal section (84) of the fixing element (70) from the gripping feature (80).

14. The fixing element according to one of claims 11 to 13, wherein the gripping feature, preferably the substantially flat surface, is configured to be gripped by means of a vacuum generated by the handling robot or prevailing at a gripping interface of the handling robot which is configured to grip the fixing element.

15. The fixing element according to one of claims 11 to 14, additionally comprising at least one rib, which is preferably formed on a surface of the fixing element facing the electrical conductor, if the electrical conductor is at least partially received in the receiving section.

16. A device (100) designed to be mounted as part of a wall (32) and / or a ceiling (32) of a room (37) of a building, wherein the Device (100) comprises: a panel (31) which has an inside (33) facing the room (37) and an outside (34) facing away from the room (37), in relation to a mounted state of the panel (31); an opening (102) defined in the panel (31), and at least one electrical socket (30) which is mounted and / or attached to the outside (34) of the panel (31) and extends at least partially through the opening (102).

17. The device (100) according to claim 16, further comprising at least one electrical conductor which is connected to the electrical box and runs at least partially along the outside of the panel.

18. The device (100) of claim 17, further comprising at least one fixing element configured to fix the electrical conductor to the outside of the panel, preferably wherein the fixing element is configured according to any one of claims 11 to 17.

19. The device (100) according to any one of claims 16 to 18, wherein the electrical socket is configured according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

20. A tool (55) configured to be mounted on a tool holder (57) of a handling robot (53), wherein the tool (55) is configured to grip an electrical box (30), preferably an electrical box (30) according to one of claims 1 to 10, at at least one gripping interface (52) of the electrical box (30) and to position the electrical box (30) on a panel (31), preferably wherein the panel (31) is configured to be mounted as part of a wall (32) and / or a ceiling (32) of a room (37) of a building.

21. The tool (55) according to claim 20, wherein the gripping tool is configured to attach the electrical box to the panel.

22. The tool (55) according to claim 20 or 21, wherein the tool is configured to attach at least one electrical conductor, which is connected or connectable to the electrical box, to the panel, preferably by means of at least one fixing element, preferably by means of at least one fixing element according to one of claims 11 to 15.

23. The tool (55) according to one of claims 20 to 22, wherein the tool is configured to connect at least one electrical conductor to the electrical box.

24. A handling robot with at least one tool holder and at least one tool (55) mounted and / or mountable on the tool holder according to one of claims 20 to 23.

25. A table (200) for machining and / or assembling components and / or materials, comprising: a machining surface (202) on which the components and / or materials can be machined and / or mounted, at least one movable structural element (204) which is movable between a first position in which the structural element (204) forms or defines a section of the machining surface (202) and a second position in which the structural element (204) is at least partially removed from the machining surface (202), such that the movement of the structural element (204) from the first position to the second position forms or releases at least one opening (206) in the machining surface (202).

26. The table (200) according to claim 25, wherein the movable structural element (204) is designed as a flap or has at least one flap, wherein the flap (204) is pivotable or foldable from the first position to the second position, preferably downwards.

27. The table (200) according to claim 25 or 26, wherein the table (200) has a plurality of the at least one movable structural element (204).

28. The table (200) according to claim 27, wherein the movable structural elements (204) are arranged in series.

29. The table (200) according to claim 27 or 28, wherein the movable structural elements (204) comprise a total of at least 30%, preferably at least 40%, preferably at least 50%, preferably at least 60%, preferably at least 70%, preferably at least 80% of the machining surface (202).

30. The table (200) according to any one of claims 25 to 29, wherein the table (200) has at least two segments or zones (220A, 220B) arranged on opposite sides of the table (200), wherein the segments or zones (220A, 220B) are movable relative to each other.

31. The table (200) according to one of claims 25 to 30, additionally comprising a rotating frame (220A, 220B) which is configured to rotate the machining surface (202) at least partially, preferably by at least 90°, preferably by at least 180°, preferably about a vertical axis (230) of the table (200).

32. The table (200) according to one of claims 25 to 31, additionally comprising at least one drive system (212) configured to move the movable structural element (204) or the movable structural elements (204) between the first position and the second position.

33. The table (200) according to claim 32, wherein the drive system (212) is configured to move each movable structural element of the movable structural elements (204) individually or separately between the first position and the second position when a plurality of movable structural elements (204) are provided.

34. The table (200) according to claim 32 or 33, wherein the drive system (212) is configured to move several movable structural elements of the movable structural elements (204) simultaneously between the first position and the second position when a plurality of movable structural elements (204) is provided.

35. The table (200) according to one of claims 25 to 34, additionally comprising at least one lifting device (216) which is configured to lift the component or material that is or has been machined or mounted on the machining surface (202) at least partially from the machining surface (202).

36. The table (200) according to claim 35, wherein the lifting device (216) is designed as a folding device which is configured to fold up the component or material which is or has been machined or mounted on the machining surface (202) from the machining surface (202).

37. The table (200) according to claim 35 or 36, wherein the lifting device (216) has at least one activation element (218), preferably at least one lever, which is designed to be actuated by a user in order to at least partially lift the component or material that is or has been machined or mounted on the machining surface (202) from the machining surface (202).

38. A method for assembling a device (100) designed to be mounted as part of a wall (32) and / or a ceiling (32) of a room (37) of a building, the method comprising: (a) Providing a panel (31) having an inside (33) facing the room (37) and an outside (34) facing away from the room (37), in a mounted state of the panel (31); (b) Gripping at least one electrical socket (30) at at least one gripping interface (52) using at least one handling robot (53); (c) Positioning the electrical socket (30) using the handling robot (53) on the outside (34) of the panel (31); (d) Attaching the electrical box (30) to the outside (34) of the panel (31).

39. The method according to claim 38, wherein step (d) is carried out by means of the handling robot or by means of at least one further handling robot.

40. The method according to claim 38 or 39, further comprising: Gripping at least one electrical line using the handling robot or using at least one other handling robot; Positioning the electrical conductor on the outside of the panel using the handling robot or at least one other handling robot; Connecting the electrical cable to at least one connection element of the electrical box using the handling robot or using at least one other handling robot to connect the electrical box to the electrical cable.

41. The method according to claim 40, wherein the connection element has at least one recess and wherein, when connecting the electrical line to the connection element by means of the handling robot, the handling robot is at least partially received by the recess of the connection. and / or the handling robot is moved at least partially through the recess.

42. The method according to any one of claims 38 to 41, wherein step (b) comprises: Gripping the electrical box at the gripping interface by means of the handling robot in a state in which the electrical box is arranged as bulk material with several electrical boxes, preferably with several of the same electrical box, preferably in a container.

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