Cup-Sealed Device Frame for Flat Moisture-Protected Installation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Moisture-protected device frames for surface-mounting require a low installation height, limiting the available space for electrical device inserts and connection components, which is inadequate for complex devices like door intercom systems with additional functionalities that are sensitive to moisture.

Innovation Solution

A cup-shaped sealing element is integrated into the device frame, expanding the installation space by its volume and providing a fluid-sealing connection, which can be fixed via a frictional connection and engages with a circumferential groove to secure the sealing element, allowing for additional moisture protection and flexibility to accommodate larger components.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Shape

If the device frame is designed with a low installation height for aesthetic reasons, then the flat design and aesthetic appearance are improved, but the installation space for device inserts and connection components becomes insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflat designVSAvoidinstallation space
Core Design Contradiction:
ShapeVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extends the installation space in the depth dimension by introducing a cup-shaped sealing element that protrudes into the building wall recess. This allows the device frame to maintain a low profile at the visible surface while providing sufficient installation volume through the depth dimension, effectively resolving the contradiction between flat design and adequate installation space.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Volume of moving object

If the device frame provides sufficient installation space for complex device inserts, then the functionality and moisture protection are improved, but the installation height increases compromising the flat design

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation spaceVSAvoidflat design
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the installation space into two distinct zones: a shallow installation space within the device frame for the device insert, and a deeper extension space within the cup-shaped sealing element for connection components. This segmentation allows each zone to be optimized independently, maintaining the flat appearance of the device frame while providing sufficient space for complex installations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Ease of operation

If the cup-shaped sealing element is made flexible to accommodate cable installations, then the ease of installation is improved, but the sealing reliability may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of installationVSAvoidsealing reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The cup-shaped sealing element is constructed as a composite structure combining a flexible outer layer for ease of installation and cable accommodation with an integrated rigid reinforcing ring for structural stability and sealing reliability. This composite design allows the sealing element to be compressed during installation while maintaining its sealing integrity and preventing deformation that would compromise moisture protection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The solution provides a flat, moisture-protected device frame with increased installation space, ensuring effective sealing and compatibility with existing frames, while allowing for the installation of complex devices with additional functionalities without compromising moisture protection.

Implementation Method 1

fixed to the opening with its opening in a fluid-tight manner

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFluid-tight sealing:

Implementation Method 2

The cup-shaped sealing element is preferably secured to the aperture via a frictional connection

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFrictional connection: Friction

Implementation Method 3

particularly preferably via a frictional connection and a force connection

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectForce connection:

Data Source

PatentEP4224649B1Moisture-proof device frame for an electrical appliance insert and corresponding arrangement
Publication Date: 2024.08.21 GIRA GIERSIEPEN GMBH & CO KG
  • EP4224649B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4224649B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4224649B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to a moisture-protected device frame (1) for an electrical device insert (100), wherein the device frame (1) has an installation space (2) for a device insert (100) and a mounting side (3) for surface mounting, which delimits the installation space (2) and has an opening (4) for cable and/or device routing, characterized in that the device frame (1) has a cup-shaped sealing element (5) which extends the installation space (2) and is fluidically sealed to the opening (4) with its opening (6). A corresponding arrangement is further described.