Modular Wiring System With Programmable Board

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing modular wiring systems face challenges in ease of cable installation and security of connections between components, requiring an improved system for easier and more secure electrical coupling.

Innovation Solution

A modular wiring system comprising a junction box with programmable wiring board and cable receiving connectors, along with device connectors, that securely positions the wiring board within the junction box using resilient hooks and guiding rails, and provides electrically conductive elements for secure connections to ROMEX cables and electrical devices.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If traditional wiring systems are used, then cable installation is complex and time-consuming, but the system structure is simple

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecable installation easeVSAvoidwiring system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The wiring system is divided into modular components: a junction box, a programmable wiring board, and separate cable receiving connectors. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently - the wiring board can be programmed for specific configurations while connectors handle cable reception, making installation easier without overwhelming complexity in the overall system

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The programmable wiring board acts as an intermediary between the cable receiving connectors and the electrical devices. It provides a standardized interface that simplifies cable installation by handling the complexity of wiring configurations internally, while presenting a simple connection interface to installers

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If modular components are used, then connection security between components is improved, but assembly complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection securityVSAvoidassembly complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The cable receiving connectors are designed to be inserted directly into the junction box and automatically engage with the programmable wiring board. This merging of components creates secure mechanical and electrical connections through integrated design features such as snap-fit mechanisms and aligned contact points, reducing assembly complexity while maintaining connection security

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The cable receiving connectors are nested within the junction box structure, with the programmable wiring board positioned between them. This nested arrangement allows components to be securely housed within each other, providing mechanical support and secure connections while simplifying the assembly process through a hierarchical structure

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

3Adaptability or versatility

If programmable wiring board is used, then wiring flexibility and adaptability are improved, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewiring flexibilityVSAvoidmanufacturing ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The programmable wiring board allows wiring configurations to be changed by modifying electrical parameters such as conductivity patterns and connection mappings. This enables the same physical hardware to adapt to different wiring requirements through programmable control, providing flexibility without requiring multiple physical board designs

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The programmable wiring board is designed as a universal component that can be configured for different wiring scenarios through software programming. This multi-functionality allows a single standardized board design to serve multiple wiring applications, simplifying manufacturing while maintaining high adaptability to different installation requirements

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS8714989B2Modular wiring system
Publication Date: 2014.05.06 IDEAL IND INC
  • US8714989B2 patent drawing
  • US8714989B2 patent drawing
  • US8714989B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A modular wiring system includes a junction box having a plurality of ports and a programmable wiring board carrying electrically conductive elements. A plurality of cable receiving connectors are each insertable into a corresponding one of the plurality of ports of the junction box and each provides electrical coupling between wires of a cable and the electrically conductive elements of the programmable wiring board. At least one electrical device receiving connector is coupled to the programmable wiring board. The at least one electrical device receiving connector releasably receives an electrical device and provides electrical coupling between the electrical device and the electrically conductive elements of the programmable wiring board.