Modular Poke-Through Floor Device With Interchangeable Connector Supports
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing poke-through devices for passing power and data cabling through floors lack modularity, leading to complications in planning, ordering, and installation, as well as increased costs and delays due to the inability to accommodate last-minute changes in connector requirements without replacing the entire device.
Innovation Solution
A modular poke-through device with interchangeable connector supports and plates that can be adapted during assembly or in the field, allowing for various configurations of power and data connectors to be added or changed without requiring a new unit, featuring a body with a receptacle-receiving basket, flanges for engagement with the floor, and an intumescent member for fire and smoke retardation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional poke-through devices are used with fixed connector configurations, then manufacturing and assembly can be completed in advance, but the devices cannot accommodate last-minute changes in connector requirements without complete replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The poke-through device is divided into modular components: a base unit and interchangeable connector assemblies. The connector assemblies can be detached and replaced independently, allowing changes in connector requirements without replacing the entire device. This segmentation enables the device to adapt to different power and data configurations while keeping the overall structure manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates dynamic configurability through removable connector assemblies that can be added, removed, or swapped based on changing requirements. The mounting mechanism allows for easy attachment and detachment of different connector types, transforming a static device into one that can dynamically adapt to different service configurations.
2Productivity
If connector specifications are finalized early in construction, then ordering and manufacturing can proceed efficiently, but changes later require returning and replacing devices causing delays and increased costs
Solution Approach 1:
The base unit of the poke-through device is prepared and installed in advance, with connector assemblies designed for quick attachment. This preliminary setup allows construction to proceed without waiting for final connector specifications, as the adaptable design accommodates future changes without requiring device replacement.
Solution Approach 2:
When connector requirements change, only the specific connector assemblies need to be removed and replaced, not the entire device. The base unit and other connector assemblies remain in place, minimizing waste and reducing the time and cost associated with complete device replacement.
3Reliability
If different connector configurations are manufactured for each specific requirement, then each poke-through is optimized for its intended use, but inventory management becomes complex and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
A single base unit design serves multiple connector configurations through interchangeable assemblies. The universal base accommodates various power and data connectors, eliminating the need to manufacture entirely different devices for each configuration. This reduces manufacturing complexity and inventory requirements while maintaining reliable, optimized connections for each specific application.
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
Enables flexible and cost-effective installation and modification of poke-through devices to meet changing requirements, reducing the need for complete replacement and minimizing disruptions during construction or renovation, while maintaining fire and smoke retardation capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
an intumescent member configured to seal the opening through the floor structure when exposed to heat
Data Source
AI summary
A poke-through device for installation in a hole in a floor structure. The floor structure defining a floor in a first working environment and a ceiling in a second working environment. The second working environment including a junction box. The poke-through device including a body having upper and lower ends and sized for insertion within the hole. The lower end communicating with the junction box and the upper end including a receptacle-receiving basket. The basket defining a peripheral wall, wherein the wall includes at least one channel extending in a direction generally perpendicular to the floor. Also included is a connector supporting bracket sized to removeably engage the channel, wherein the bracket is maintained in a stationary position upon installation.