Poke-through Floor Box Assembly with Integrated Fire-Proofing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing poke-through floor boxes are complex and time-consuming to install, lacking efficient fire-proofing and compartmentalization for high and low voltage components.
Innovation Solution
A poke-through floor box assembly with an intumescent layer for fire-proofing, an electrical box dividing the can into compartments, a transition body with keystone holders for low voltage devices, and EMT fittings for attaching electrical tubing, enabling rapid assembly and installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional poke-through floor boxes are used with separate fire-proofing components and compartmentalization structures, then fire safety and component separation are improved, but installation time and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the fire-proofing layer and compartmentalization structure into a single integrated floor box assembly. The can includes an integrated fire-proofing layer that provides both fire protection and structural compartmentalization, eliminating the need for separate fire-proofing components and reducing installation steps while maintaining fire safety requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The floor box assembly is designed as a multi-functional unit that simultaneously provides fire-proofing, compartmentalization for high and low voltage separation, and structural support. The can serves multiple functions including containing the fire-proofing layer, providing structural integrity, and enabling component mounting, thereby reducing the number of separate components needed.
2Reliability
If traditional poke-through floor boxes include separate fire-proofing layers and compartmentalization structures, then fire rating and component separation are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fire-proofing layer and compartmentalization structure are merged into a single integrated can assembly. The can includes an integrated fire-proofing layer that simultaneously provides fire protection and structural compartmentalization, reducing the number of separate components and simplifying the overall structure while maintaining required fire ratings.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical box nests within the can that already contains the integrated fire-proofing layer. This nested arrangement allows the fire-proofing structure to serve dual purposes: providing fire protection and creating compartments, thereby reducing structural complexity compared to having separate fire-proofing and compartmentalization components.
3Productivity
If rapid assembly features are added to the floor box, then installation efficiency is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Alignment features such as guide pins and matching recesses are pre-formed during manufacturing of the can and electrical box components. These preliminary alignment features ensure that when components are assembled rapidly on-site, they automatically align correctly, reducing the skill level and time required for installation while maintaining manufacturing precision standards.
Solution Approach 2:
The floor box assembly is segmented into modular components (can, electrical box, cover) with standardized alignment interfaces. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured separately with precise alignment features, enabling rapid assembly while maintaining manufacturing precision through standardized interfaces that guide correct positioning.
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
The assembly provides a rapid installation method with integrated fire-proofing and compartmentalization for both high and low voltage components, enhancing installation efficiency and safety by using an intumescent layer and keystone holders.
Implementation Method 1
An intumescent layer in the can provides a fire-proof rating for the floor box to match the fire-proof rating of the surrounding structure
Data Source
AI summary
A poke-through floor box assembly adapted to be supported in an opening in the floor of a building. An intumescent layer in the assembly provides a fire-proof rating for the floor box to match the fire-proof rating of the surrounding structure. The assembly includes a can and an electrical box having separate compartments for housing low and high voltage components. A transition body extends between the electrical box and the can opening. A flange and cover provide a means for closing the assembly. Keystone holders on the transition body enable mounting of low voltage devices such as USB ports. EMT fittings provide a means for attaching electrical metal tubing to the can to carry power and low voltage signals into the can. Alignment features on both the electrical box and the transition body enable rapid assembly and installation of the electrical box at the job site.