Hinged Mud Ring Assembly for Electrical Device Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mud ring assemblies for electrical devices lack a convenient mechanism for accessing the back of the device during installation and maintenance, often requiring one-handed operation and limited access.
Innovation Solution
A hinged mud ring assembly with a pivotable movable member that can be coupled to a junction box in multiple arrangements, allowing for easy access to the electrical device by pivoting between closed and open positions, enabling two-handed operation and improved accessibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional fixed mud ring assembly is used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but access to the back of the electrical device is limited and requires one-handed operation
Solution Approach 1:
The mud ring assembly incorporates a hinged movable member that can pivot between closed and open positions, transforming the static structure into a dynamic one. This allows the assembly to adapt its configuration during installation and maintenance, providing easy access to the electrical device while maintaining a compact closed position for normal operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The mud ring assembly is divided into separate components: a base member and a movable member connected by hinge features. This segmentation allows independent movement of the movable member while the base member remains fixed to the junction box, enabling two-handed operation and improved accessibility without compromising overall structural integrity.
2Ease of operation
If the movable member is always in closed position, then the electrical device is protected and enclosed, but access during installation and maintenance is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The hinged connection enables the movable member to dynamically transition between closed (protective) and open (accessible) positions. During installation and maintenance, the movable member can be opened to provide access to the electrical device, while during normal operation it remains closed to maintain enclosure protection.
3Productivity
If one-handed operation is required, then the assembly structure remains simple, but installation and maintenance efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The hinged design allows the movable member to be easily opened and closed with one hand during critical moments, while also enabling two-handed operation when needed for better control and accessibility. This dynamic capability significantly improves installation and maintenance efficiency without requiring complex mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A mud ring assembly for supporting an electrical device including a base member configured to be coupled to a junction box having a first corner and a second corner. The base member has a perimeter configured to extend around the first corner and not reach the second corner so that the base member is not positioned above the second corner. The mud ring assembly also includes a movable member configured to support the electrical device. The movable member is pivotably connected to the base member and pivotable relative to the base member between a closed position in which a back of the electrical device is enclosed in the junction box and an open position permitting access to the back of the electrical device. The movable member is couplable at a second portion of the junction box to selectively secure the movable member in the closed position.