DC Receptacle Block for Raceway Integration

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electrical power systems in office environments face challenges in efficiently integrating DC power using modular configurations and raceway assemblies, often requiring multiple components and resulting in unsightly and dangerous entanglements of electrical cords.

Innovation Solution

A raceway assembly with interconnected junction blocks carrying DC power circuits and a DC receptacle block that can be electrically engaged with the DC buses or wires, allowing for DC power integration without the need for numerous differing components, using known raceway assemblies and junction blocks.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional AC power raceway assemblies are used for DC power integration, then existing infrastructure can be utilized, but multiple differing components are required increasing system complexity

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveDC power integration capabilityVSAvoidnumber of components

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The DC receptacle block is designed to be compatible with existing AC power raceway assemblies, allowing the same raceway infrastructure to serve both AC and DC power distribution functions. This multi-functionality approach enables DC power integration without requiring separate dedicated DC raceway systems, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining adaptability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system separates DC power distribution components (DC receptacle block, DC buses, DC receptacles) as distinct modular units that can be selectively integrated into existing AC raceway assemblies. This segmentation allows for flexible DC power integration only where needed, rather than requiring complete system redesign, thus reducing the number of components required while maintaining versatility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If numerous electrical cords are used to connect devices to outlets, then power can be supplied to multiple devices, but unsightly and dangerous entanglements occur

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepower supply to multiple devicesVSAvoidcord entanglement hazards

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple DC power circuits are consolidated into a single DC receptacle block that houses multiple DC buses and receptacles in one location. This merging eliminates the need for multiple separate electrical cords extending from different outlets, as devices can be powered through the centralized DC receptacle block, thereby reducing cord entanglement hazards while maintaining the ability to supply power to multiple devices.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If DC receptacles are integrated into existing raceway assemblies, then DC power can be distributed, but structural changes and tools may be required for installation

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveDC power distributionVSAvoidinstallation complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The DC receptacle block is pre-assembled with DC buses, receptacles, and connection mechanisms before installation. This preliminary assembly allows the unit to be installed as a complete module into existing raceway assemblies without requiring on-site fabrication, structural modifications, or specialized tools, thereby enabling DC power distribution while maintaining ease of installation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS8790126B2DC receptacle

Publication Date: 2014.07.29 BYRNE NORMAN R

AI summary

A DC receptacle block includes a DC receptacle for interconnecting to a DC plug. The DC receptacle is electrically engageable with a junction block having buses or wires carrying DC power.