Camera Mounting Assembly with Twist-Lock Adapter Plate
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electrical boxes are not adaptable to mounting both security cameras and electrical fixtures, requiring separate boxes for each, and often fail to meet local electrical codes, especially when recessing connections is necessary to hide them from view.
Innovation Solution
A camera mounting assembly comprising a mounting bar and adapter plate that can be used with conventional 3½-inch or 4-inch electrical boxes, allowing the mounting of a wide range of security camera housings and electrical fixtures, with rotatable flags for secure attachment to walls or ceilings, and a ground strap for code compliance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional electrical boxes are used, then electrical connections can be contained within a closed box meeting electrical codes, but the boxes are not adaptable to mounting both security cameras and electrical fixtures
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical box assembly is designed with a universal mounting plate that can accommodate both security cameras and electrical fixtures through a single box design. The mounting plate includes multiple mounting configurations and can interface with different device types, eliminating the need for separate specialized boxes for cameras versus electrical fixtures.
2Ease of operation
If security cameras are mounted on ceilings or walls, then monitoring coverage is improved, but electrical connections become visible and need to be recessed
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting assembly is nested within the electrical box structure, with the mounting plate positioned inside or integrated into the box. This nesting allows the camera to be mounted on the ceiling or wall while the electrical connections remain concealed within the box, achieving both mounting capability and aesthetic concealment.
3Reliability
If separate electrical boxes are purchased for security cameras and electrical fixtures, then each device can be properly mounted, but installation time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The universal mounting plate design allows a single electrical box assembly to properly mount both security cameras and electrical fixtures without requiring separate specialized boxes. This universality reduces installation time by eliminating the need to select and install different box types for different devices.
4Ease of manufacture
If nonmetallic electrical boxes are used for security cameras, then installation is simplified, but local electrical codes may not be met
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical box assembly combines metallic and nonmetallic components, with the box itself being metallic to meet electrical code requirements for conductivity and durability, while the mounting plate and trim pieces can be nonmetallic for ease of installation and aesthetic purposes. This composite construction satisfies both code compliance and installation simplicity requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
A camera mounting assembly including a mounting bar and an adapter plate for mounting a security camera or an electrical fixture to an electrical box installed in a wall or ceiling. An elongated base portion on the mounting bar is adapted to mount to the face of a conventional electrical box and extend beyond the walls of the box. A pair of prongs extends from the base portion of the mounting bar and at least one aperture is provided on the end of the bar. The adapter plate includes an opening with an inner periphery and an inclined surface adapted for twist locking engagement with the prongs of the mounting bar. The camera mounting assembly enables the mounting of a wide range of conventional security camera housings or electrical fixtures to a conventional electrical box.