Framework for a switchgear cabinet
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing switch cabinet frameworks are not adaptable to varying application requirements, often using excessive material and complex geometries to accommodate all possible load conditions, leading to unnecessary manufacturing costs and inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A modular frame system with a base frame and additional frames that can be inserted or attached to enhance load capacity, provide additional support, or mount components, allowing for flexible configuration and reduced material usage by using interchangeable profiles and fastening systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the cross-sectional geometries of the frame's profile struts are designed for maximum load-bearing capacity, then the load-bearing capacity is improved, but the material usage increases and manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The frame system is segmented into a base frame and multiple interchangeable additional frames. Each additional frame is designed with standardized connection elements that allow them to be attached to specific locations on the base frame. This segmentation enables the load-bearing structure to be divided into essential components (base frame) and optional reinforcement components (additional frames), allowing material to be used only where structurally necessary rather than throughout the entire frame uniformly.
Solution Approach 2:
Additional frames are selectively positioned at specific locations on the base frame where local reinforcement is needed. The connection elements are designed with varying geometries that match specific attachment points, enabling localized strengthening without requiring the entire frame structure to be over-engineered. This allows the frame to have different structural qualities in different regions - reinforced where needed, minimal where not required.
2Adaptability or versatility
If complex and particularly rigid cross-sectional geometries are used to prepare for all conceivable requirement profiles, then the adaptability is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases and manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The additional frames are designed as universal, interchangeable components that can be attached to multiple different locations on the base frame using standardized connection elements. Each additional frame serves multiple potential functions depending on where it is installed - providing lateral reinforcement, vertical support, or diagonal bracing as needed. This universality allows a single design of additional frame to address multiple different structural requirements without requiring custom-designed frames for each application scenario.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame system transitions from a static, fixed configuration to a dynamic, reconfigurable structure. The interchangeable additional frames can be attached, detached, and repositioned based on the specific application requirements. This dynamic capability allows the same base frame to be adapted to different load conditions and structural needs by simply changing which additional frames are installed and where they are positioned, without requiring complex manufacturing processes.
3Reliability
If a fixed frame design is used to accommodate all possible load conditions, then the reliability is improved, but the material usage increases unnecessarily
Solution Approach 1:
The base frame is pre-designed with integrated connection elements at multiple predetermined locations that are ready to receive additional frames. These connection elements are prepared in advance during base frame manufacturing, eliminating the need for field modifications or complex assembly procedures. The preliminary preparation of attachment points ensures that reinforcement can be reliably added when needed while maintaining consistent structural quality across different configurations.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a rack (1) for a switchgear cabinet arrangement, comprising a main frame (2) that includes four vertical profiled struts (3) and eight horizontal profiled struts (3), four of said profiled struts (3) forming a rectangular rack frame (4) having a constant cross-section; the rack frame (4) has a peripheral receptacle (7) which is formed by at least two sides (5, 6) of the profiled struts (3) and which is open towards an external side (A) of the rack frame (4); the disclosed rack is characterized in that a rectangular additional frame (8) is inserted into the receptacle (7).