Movable Arm Electrical Box Assembly for Wiring Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical box assemblies lack an efficient and versatile solution for mounting electrical devices, particularly in scenarios where additional space is needed for larger devices or more extensive wiring, and there is a need for improved accessibility and grounding options.
Innovation Solution
The electrical box assembly includes a metallic or non-metallic mounting plate with a movable arm attached to the open end of the electrical box, allowing for flexible orientation and easy access to the interior, along with an electrical box extension that can be coupled to the junction box with tabs and mounting plates for secure attachment and grounding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of stationary object
If an electrical box extension is added to enlarge the volume, then the capacity to accommodate devices and wiring is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical box system is divided into a base electrical box and a separate extension component. The extension can be attached to the base box to increase volume when needed, but can also be omitted for simpler installations. This segmentation allows the system to scale from simple to complex configurations based on specific installation requirements.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a fixed mounting plate is used, then the structural stability is improved, but the accessibility to interior and mounting flexibility deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting plate incorporates movable arms that can be positioned and secured at different locations. These arms can be adjusted to provide access to the interior of the electrical box when needed, then secured in position to maintain stability during device mounting. This dynamic adjustment capability allows the mounting plate to transition between accessibility and stability states.
3Ease of operation
If the mounting arm is made movable, then the ease of operation and accessibility are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting arm is designed with a simple pivot mechanism that allows it to move between positions. The arm can be manually positioned to access different areas of the electrical box interior, then held in place during installation. This dynamic feature is achieved through a relatively simple mechanical design that does not require complex actuators or control systems.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple mounting plates are used for symmetrical orientation, then the adaptability to different orientations is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The extension is designed with asymmetrical features that allow a single mounting plate to accommodate multiple orientations. The mounting plate includes positioning features and adjustable arms that can be configured for horizontal or vertical mounting configurations, eliminating the need for separate symmetrical variants while maintaining adaptability to different installation orientations.
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical box assembly is configured for mounting an electrical device such as an electrical wiring device. The electrical box assembly includes a box, such as a metal or non-metallic box, with an open front end having an inwardly extending shoulder forming a recess at the front end. A mounting plate is attached to the shoulder for mounting the electrical device. The mounting plate can be a metal mounting plate or made of a non-metallic material. The mounting plate has an open portion and recessed surfaces on opposite sides of the open portion. A movable mounting arm is pivotally coupled to the mounting plate on one side of the open portion to pivot between an open position and a closed position overlying the open portion.