Modular Electrical Distribution System with Universal Plug Connectors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current modular electrical distribution systems for non-residential buildings are labor-intensive, lack compatibility between lighting and power receptacle systems, and are not easily adaptable for use in various voltage levels, leading to inefficiencies and limitations in installation and reconfiguration.
Innovation Solution
A universal modular electrical distribution system with power distribution assemblies, flexible conduit units, and common plug connectors that allow for easy interconnection of components, enabling the system to supply power to lighting, receptacles, and office furniture across different voltage levels, with voltage keying to prevent unauthorized mixing of components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional hard wiring methods are used with separate spools for each wire, then complete electrical circuits can be installed, but the installation process becomes extremely labor-intensive and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate wire spools into a single integrated cable spool that contains all necessary conductors (hot, neutral, ground) for complete circuits. This merging eliminates the need to handle and connect multiple separate wire bundles, dramatically reducing installation labor and time while maintaining complete circuit functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent pre-assembles complete circuit cables with all conductors already configured and connected at the manufacturer before delivery to the job site. This preliminary action of pre-configuration eliminates on-site wire stripping, bending, and connection work, transforming a complex multi-step installation into a simple plug-and-play process.
2Adaptability or versatility
If lighting fixtures are installed on higher voltage circuits (277V or 347V), then more fixtures can be powered on a single circuit, but the system lacks adaptability for different voltage levels
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal cable system that can serve multiple voltage levels (120V, 277V, 347V) through a single standardized cable design. The cable contains sufficient conductors to support any voltage configuration, and the system allows flexible termination options at fixtures to accommodate different voltage requirements without requiring different cable types or configurations.
3Ease of manufacture
If modular components are used with pre-formed connections, then factory automation can be applied, but the system lacks flexibility for field reconfiguration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic connector designs that allow both fixed pre-formed connections for factory assembly and flexible field reconfiguration. The connectors can be permanently assembled at the factory for efficiency, yet remain capable of being disconnected and reconnected in the field to accommodate layout changes, merging the benefits of both rigid and flexible connection approaches.
Data Source
AI summary
A universal power distribution system is provided for routing electrical circuits within a building structure to comprehensively provide electrical power to the building in ceiling configurations, wall-mounted configurations, raised floor configurations and in office furniture configurations. The system components for all of these configurations have common plug connectors that are engagable with each other so as to be readily usable in a wide variety of applications. The system is readily adaptable to form virtually any conventional circuit configuration found within conventional hard-wired systems yet is formed simply through the routing of the cables through the building cavities and interconnection is accomplished merely by plugging components together rather than through labor-intensive manual wiring.