Flush Electrical Fixture Mounting Frame With Removable Cover Plate
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical fixture mounting systems face challenges in accommodating different sizes and configurations while maintaining a clean, flush appearance, are difficult to access for maintenance, and lack aesthetic integration with various interior styles, posing installation inefficiencies and safety concerns.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus with a mounting frame and removable cover plate that includes flanges and mounting tabs for secure attachment, allowing flush installation and easy access, featuring magnetic or snap-fit mechanisms for easy removal, and accommodating multiple fixtures in a side-by-side arrangement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional mounting methods are used, then electrical fixtures can be installed, but the installation process is complex and requires specialized tools
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is divided into separate modular components: a mounting frame with flanges and tabs, a fixture housing, and a cover plate. This segmentation allows each component to be independently manufactured and assembled, simplifying the overall installation process while maintaining structural integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting frame is designed with universal features including multiple flange configurations for different surface types, adjustable tabs for various fixture sizes, and standardized opening dimensions. This multi-functionality enables a single mounting system to accommodate diverse electrical fixtures across different applications
2Ease of repair
If fixed mounting systems are used, then fixtures are securely attached, but accessibility for maintenance and repair is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The cover plate is designed with dynamic attachment characteristics, being securely fastened during normal operation but easily removable when maintenance is needed. The combination of flange-based mechanical attachment and magnetic holding provides stable security while enabling simple access for repairs
3Adaptability or versatility
If custom mounting solutions are created for different fixture sizes, then each fixture can be properly mounted, but the system lacks adaptability to various configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting frame incorporates universal design elements including variable opening sizes, multiple flange types for different surface materials, and adjustable tab positions. This allows a single standardized mounting system to adapt to various fixture configurations without requiring multiple specialized mounting solutions
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system allows for parameter adjustments in opening dimensions, flange extension lengths, and tab positions to accommodate different fixture sizes and depths. These parameter variations maintain the overall system architecture while providing flexibility for diverse applications
4Shape
If mounting systems are designed for secure attachment, then fixtures are firmly fixed, but the aesthetic appearance with clean flush finish is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system uses a nested structure where the fixture housing is received within the mounting frame opening, and the cover plate is attached to the front surface. This nested arrangement allows secure mechanical attachment through flanges and tabs while maintaining a clean flush exterior appearance from the front view
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
Facilitates seamless aesthetic integration, easy maintenance access, and secure attachment, enhancing installation efficiency and safety while adapting to various fixture types and sizes.
Implementation Method 1
The secure mechanism may include at least one magnet, and the cover plate may be magnetically attached to the front surface of the mounting frame
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for mounting an electrical fixture, comprising a fixture housing configured to accommodate at least an electrical fixture, a mounting frame having a front surface with an opening for receiving the fixture housing, wherein the opening is defined by a set of flanges extending outwardly from first pair of opposite sides of the mounting frame against a mounting surface, and a set of mounting tabs extending inwardly from a second pair of opposite sides of the mounting frame, wherein each mounting tab of the set of mounting tabs includes a hole for receiving a fastener to secure, the fixture housing to the mounting frame, and a cover plate flush with the mounting surface, wherein the cover plate includes a secure mechanism positioned on a rear surface of the cover plate, aligned with the at least one hole, and wherein the cover plate is removably attached to the mounting frame.