Back-to-Back Electrical Box for Dual-Voltage Outlet Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical boxes often have limitations such as being unable to accommodate dual voltage configurations, and they are typically mounted in a single orientation, which restricts their application in various spaces, including outdoor and indoor settings.
Innovation Solution
The development of a back-to-back electrical box with side openings for receiving different electrical or data interface devices, allowing for dual voltage configurations, and the ability to be mounted both vertically and horizontally, accommodating various installation scenarios.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If outlets are positioned side-by-side in a traditional multi-gang box, then multiple electrical interfaces are provided, but one outlet may be blocked when an oversized plug is used and it is difficult to use outlets when located behind furniture or in tight spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the traditional side-by-side outlet arrangement by positioning outlets on opposite sides of the electrical box. This allows users to access outlets from different directions, preventing blocking issues and improving accessibility in tight spaces where furniture or other obstacles may be present.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional side-by-side arrangement to a three-dimensional opposite-side configuration. By placing outlets on opposite faces of the box, the design adds spatial dimensionality to outlet placement, enabling access from multiple directions and resolving blocking problems.
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing post mounting devices are used for outdoor outlets, then single or side-by-side outlets can be mounted, but they cannot accommodate dual voltage configurations and are limited in application flexibility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal electrical box design that can accommodate multiple functions and configurations. The box can hold different types of outlets (electrical, data, AV) in various arrangements (side-by-side, opposite sides), support single or dual voltage configurations, and be mounted in different orientations, making it applicable to diverse scenarios from outdoor posts to indoor walls.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic adaptability through adjustable mounting capabilities. The electrical box can be installed in different orientations (vertical, horizontal) and configurations depending on the application requirements, allowing the system to adapt to various mounting surfaces and spatial constraints rather than being fixed to a single configuration.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a single-gang mount box is used, then the mounting structure is simpler, but the electrical box cannot accommodate dual voltage configurations with barriers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the electrical box into distinct compartments or sections that can accommodate different voltage levels. By dividing the internal space and using separable barrier components, the design enables dual voltage configurations while maintaining a relatively simple single-gang mounting structure, as the complexity is managed through internal segmentation rather than external structural complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical box including a central housing with a first side opening, a second side opening opposite the first side opening, and a rear opening, each of the first and second side openings configured to receive an electrical or data interface device, a first extension compartment around the first side opening, the first extension compartment including a first door, and a second extension compartment around the second side opening, the second extension compartment including a second door.