Outlet box
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing outlet boxes for utilities in building walls face challenges such as difficulty in detecting leaks, insecure mounting, limited versatility for different fixtures and pipe sizes, and complex installation processes, which can lead to water damage and increased repair costs.
Innovation Solution
A utility box design featuring a waterproof housing with adjustable and secure mounting options, multiple receptacles for various pipe and fixture sizes, and a sealant system to prevent leaks, allowing for easy installation and maintenance without removing the box from the wall.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If outlet boxes are installed in building walls to provide access for utilities, then utility access is enabled, but leak detection becomes difficult and water damage risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a visual indicator system that changes color or provides visual signal when water leakage is detected in the outlet box, enabling easy leak detection without requiring wall removal or complex inspection procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary detection mechanism between the utility connections and the wall interior, using sensors or indicators that transmit leak information to the exterior where it can be easily observed and responded to
2Ease of manufacture
If outlet boxes are secured using straps during installation, then mounting is simplified, but structural support adequacy is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the mounting function into separate components: straps for initial positioning and alignment, plus dedicated mechanical anchors or fasteners for structural support, allowing each component to perform its specific function effectively
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates pre-installed mounting features or reinforcement elements in the outlet box housing that prepare the box for secure installation before the actual mounting process, ensuring both ease of installation and structural adequacy
3Device complexity
If outlet boxes are configured for single application, then design is simplified, but versatility for different fixtures is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the outlet box with multiple connection ports, adjustable mounting configurations, and standardized interfaces that allow the same box to accommodate various fixtures and utility types (water, drainage, electrical) without requiring different box designs
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates adjustable or reconfigurable elements within the outlet box, such as movable partitions, adjustable connection points, or modular components that can be configured for different applications after installation
4Ease of manufacture
If receptacles are fixed in position and size, then manufacturing is simplified, but accommodation of differently sized pipes and fixtures is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates adjustable receptacles or connection points that can be repositioned or resized after manufacturing, allowing the same outlet box to accommodate pipes and fixtures of various sizes and positions through mechanical adjustment rather than requiring multiple fixed designs
Data Source
AI summary
A utility box for mounting at least in part within a wall for use with a fluid carrying supply pipe, the box comprising, a housing including a top wall, a bottom wall, a first side wall and a second side wall, a back wall and a front opening providing access into an interior of the housing defined by the top, bottom, first side, second side and back walls, a bottom wall aperture in the bottom wall sized for extending the pipe through the bottom wall aperture with the pipe terminating in a free end portion positioned within the interior of the housing at a location above the bottom wall, a valve attachable to the free end portion of the pipe, the junction of the valve and the pipe being within the interior of the housing above the bottom wall, and a first seal positioned to provide a fluid-tight seal between the bottom wall and the pipe to prevent fluid within the interior of the housing from passing out of the interior of the housing through the bottom wall aperture.