Pre-equipped Embedding Device for Electrical Appliances

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing embedding devices for electrical equipment in low voltage communication networks face challenges such as low ergonomics, the need for specific tools and connectors, and difficulties in handling rigid cables, leading to complex installations and structural weaknesses.

Innovation Solution

A recessed device with a removable connecting element that hooks and anchors to source cables and standard cables, allowing for secure mechanical and electrical connections within a compact design, using standard connectors and allowing for adjustable cable lengths and easy installation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Volume of moving object

If a large box is used to accommodate cables and connectors, then the installation space is sufficient, but the front surface area increases and wall openings become larger

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebox volumeVSAvoidfront surface area
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies nesting by placing the connector inside the box rather than outside, and by routing cables through the interior volume. The connector is positioned within the box's internal space, allowing the box to serve as both the mounting structure and the protective enclosure for connection components. This nested arrangement maximizes space utilization while maintaining a compact external footprint.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Reliability

If wiring is performed before embedding the box, then the connector can be connected to the electrical network, but the installation process becomes more complex

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

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by pre-arranging the connector inside the box at a predetermined position before the box is embedded in the wall. The connector is positioned and secured within the box's interior, with cable access points prepared in advance. This allows the box to be installed first, followed by simpler cable routing and connection operations, rather than requiring complex pre-wiring through the wall structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Reliability

If a connector of dedicated design is used, then the connection can be made, but the ergonomics of mounting deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoidmounting ergonomics
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by using a standard connector design that can accommodate multiple cable types and connection configurations. The connector is designed with universal mounting features that allow it to be installed in the box using common fastening methods, rather than requiring specialized tools or procedures. This universal approach maintains connection reliability while significantly improving mounting ease and reducing installation time.

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

4Ease of operation

If the connector is located outside the box, then the connection is accessible, but the wiring must be performed before the box is fitted

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection accessibilityVSAvoidinstallation sequence complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dimensionality change by moving the connector from an external position to an internal position within the box, utilizing the three-dimensional interior space. The connector is positioned at a specific location inside the box with cable access points arranged to provide adequate working space. This internal placement allows the box to be installed first, and then cables can be routed through the box's interior to reach the connector, eliminating the need for complex pre-wiring through the wall structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Data Source

PatentEP2363934B1Pre-equipped embedding device for an electrical appliance
Publication Date: 2016.11.23 HAGER CONTROLS
  • EP2363934B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2363934B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2363934B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The device (1) has a housing (2) constituted by a bottom wall (3) and side walls (4) defining an inner volume of the housing. A removable connecting element (5) comprises anchoring units (8) cooperating with a receiving area (9) provided in the inner volume. A standard connection plug (6) is connected to an electrical appliance for forming a connection joint between the appliance and the connecting element so as to mechanically and electrically integrate the connecting element with a source cable (22) and a standard cable (7) and fix the connecting element to the housing. The connection plug is RJ45female type connection plug. An independent claim is also included for a method for installing a pre-equipped mounting device for connecting an electrical appliance.