Modular Mounting Box With Interchangeable Top Parts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mounting boxes of the second type, which are installed after the inner wall is erected, lack modularity and versatility in accommodating different electrical components and configurations, such as lighting switches or multiple socket outlets, requiring separate designs for each installation scenario.
Innovation Solution
A modular mounting box design featuring a reusable bottom part paired with interchangeable top parts, allowing the same bottom part to be adapted for various top configurations, including single plug and 2-gang socket outlets, through a snap-locking mechanism and adjustable flange systems for secure wall mounting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional mounting box design is used, then the mounting box can be securely attached to the wall, but it lacks modularity and versatility in accommodating different electrical components
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting box is divided into separate modular components: a base body and interchangeable faceplates. Each faceplate is designed for specific electrical components (single plug, 2-gang socket outlets, lighting switches), allowing the same base to accommodate different configurations by simply changing the faceplate.
Solution Approach 2:
The base body of the mounting box is designed as a universal component that can work with multiple types of faceplates. The standardized interface and attachment mechanism enable a single base to support various electrical component configurations, eliminating the need for different mounting box designs for each application.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate designs are created for each installation scenario, then each configuration can be optimized, but the overall system complexity and number of parts increases
Solution Approach 1:
A single universal base design supports multiple electrical component configurations through interchangeable faceplates, reducing the total number of unique mounting box designs from several specialized versions to one standardized base with multiple accessory options.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a modular design with interchangeable parts is used, then versatility is improved, but the assembly and installation process may become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The faceplates are pre-designed with standardized attachment features that align with the base body. The snap-fit mechanism and positioning elements are pre-configured during manufacturing, so that during installation, the electrician only needs to attach the appropriate faceplate to the base without complex assembly steps.
Data Source
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AI summary
The mounting box (100) has a longitudinal centre axis (X-X), a bottom part (10) and a separate top part (20) being formed of a tubular body portion (21) with a first end (21A) provided with radially outwardly from the body portion (21, 31) extending flange means (22). The bottom part (10) is adapted to be pushed in the axial (X-X) direction at least partly into the top part (20) so that an opening (O1) is formed through the body portion (21) into a mounting space (M1) formed in the interior of the mounting box (100). The bottom part (10) and the top part (20) are connected to each other through first connections means (50) positioned in connection with the bottom part (10) and second connection means (60) positioned in connection with the top part (20).