Lateral Circuit Card Interface for Compact Building Controller
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for mounting controllers in buildings are susceptible to damage during construction and do not provide a compact, accessible package that minimizes exposure and projection from the wall.
Innovation Solution
The solution involves connecting a circuit board slideably to a connection element on the side surface of the controller, allowing for early installation during rough-in operations and sequential connection of the external circuit, using a receiver to support the circuit card and guide it into engagement with the controller, which can be retained through gravitational force or a snap-together connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If traditional mounting methods with axial connectors are used, then the controller can be connected to external circuits, but the controller and its interconnecting devices project significantly away from the wall, creating a bulky package that is difficult to access and install
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the connection dimension from axial (perpendicular to wall) to lateral (parallel to wall). The circuit board connects to the controller through a lateral interface rather than extending axially outward, reducing the projection from the wall while maintaining connectivity. This dimensional shift creates a flatter, more compact package that is easier to access and install.
2Productivity
If the controller is installed early during rough-in operations, then construction progress is accelerated, but the controller and associated equipment are exposed to potential damage during subsequent construction activities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the installation into separate phases: the receiver is installed early during rough-in operations and protected within the wall structure, while the controller is installed later after the building is more complete. The receiver acts as a protected intermediary that can be installed early without exposing the controller to construction damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The receiver is installed in advance during rough-in operations, preparing the mounting structure before the controller is installed. This preliminary action allows the receiver to be protected within the wall structure while the controller remains protected until the building is more complete, at which point the controller can be safely connected to the pre-installed receiver.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the circuit board is rigidly fixed to the controller, then connection stability is improved, but the ability to progressively install and connect components during sequential construction phases is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a slideable connection between the circuit board and the receiver, replacing a rigid fixed connection with a dynamic movable connection. The circuit board can slide laterally within the receiver, allowing for progressive installation where components can be connected in sequence during construction phases while maintaining stable electrical connections through the slideable interface.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus are provided for operatively connecting a controller to an external circuit, by connecting the external circuit to a circuit card mounted for slidable movement into operative engagement with a connection element disposed on a side surface of the controller. The circuit card is slidably supported in a receiver adapted for positioning the controller with respect to the circuit card.