Interchangeable Pre-wired Electrical Segments with Mating Connectors
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing electrical wiring systems, particularly the NEMA/Edison Screw system, fail to provide both electrical and load-bearing support, making it difficult to securely mount and replace elevated electrical devices like ceiling fans and wall sconces, and pose safety risks due to visible wiring and the need for professional electrician intervention.
Innovation Solution
A system of prewired, interchangeable elements with mating electro-mechanical connectors, including Linear, Shaped, Splitting, Adaptor, and End Element Assemblies, that provide both electrical and structural connections, allowing for secure mounting and easy replacement of electrical devices without visible wiring and reducing safety risks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If NEMA/Edison Screw plugs and outlets are used for electrical connections, then electrical connectivity is achieved, but load-bearing support and secure mounting are lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines electrical connection and mechanical support functions into a single integrated fixture box assembly. The NEMA receptacle is mounted within a structural fixture box that provides both electrical connectivity and load-bearing support, eliminating the need for separate wiring and mounting operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixture box serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support for elevated devices, houses the electrical connection system, and enables both permanent and removable device mounting. This multi-functional design resolves the contradiction by making a single component system capable of both electrical and mechanical roles.
2Strength
If hard-wiring elevated electrical devices into building electrical systems is required, then structural support is provided, but installation complexity and safety risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The fixture box is pre-assembled with the NEMA receptacle and electrical connections established before final device installation. This preliminary preparation allows the electrical system to be ready in advance, simplifying the final device mounting process and reducing on-site wiring complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixture box acts as an intermediary component between the building's structural system and the elevated electrical device. It provides a standardized interface that simplifies installation by mediating between the complex building wiring system and the simpler device connection requirements.
3Reliability
If licensed electricians are required for elevated electrical device wiring, then safety is improved, but remodeling costs and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the installation process into two distinct phases: a professional installation phase where the fixture box is permanently mounted with electrical connections, and a user-replaceable phase where devices can be easily swapped. This segmentation allows licensed electricians to perform only the critical, high-risk wiring work once, while enabling end-users to perform safe, simple device replacements themselves.
4Shape
If elevated electrical devices are mounted high above ground, then aesthetic appeal is improved, but safety risks from working at height increase
Solution Approach 1:
The fixture box and electrical connections are pre-installed at the elevated location by a licensed electrician using proper safety equipment and procedures. This preliminary action completes the hazardous work at height once during professional installation, allowing subsequent device replacements to be performed safely at ground level or with minimal elevation exposure.
Data Source
AI summary
Prewired, interchangeably connectible elements with mating electro-mechanical connectors for constructing a multitude of electrical apparatuses by forming load-bearing, electrical connections between the constituent elements thereof and a method of using such elements therefor.