Removable Cover System for Wiring Devices with Pushbuttons
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing color change kits for wiring devices are cumbersome to install and remove, and pose challenges when used with electrical devices that have pushbuttons, such as GFCI devices, due to the need for precise alignment and flexibility to accommodate various motions of the buttons.
Innovation Solution
A removable cover system with pivotally attached covers and resilient fastening features, such as snaps and hinge feet, that allows for easy installation and removal while maintaining secure engagement with the electrical device, and includes design features like flexing ribs and guide walls to accommodate pushbuttons and prevent misalignment or sticking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If resilient snaps are used to attach the frame to the mounting plate, then the color change kit can be installed and removed, but the installation and removal process becomes cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the fastening function from the main cover body by using separate resilient snaps that can be independently manipulated. The snaps are positioned at the sides of the frame, allowing them to be pushed in to release the frame from the mounting plate without requiring manipulation of the entire frame structure. This extraction of the fastening mechanism enables quicker release and installation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a removable cover system is used for color change kits, then color changes can be implemented, but the system becomes incompatible with electrical devices having pushbuttons due to alignment and flexibility issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating openings in the cover at specific locations where pushbuttons need to be accessed. These openings are strategically positioned to allow pushbutton movement while maintaining the structural integrity of the cover. The cover has different properties in different locations: solid material where structural support is needed and openings where pushbutton access is required.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates dynamics by designing the cover with openings that accommodate the dynamic movement of pushbuttons. The cover structure allows for the necessary flexibility and movement of pushbuttons while maintaining overall cover integrity. This dynamic design enables the cover to adapt to the operational requirements of devices with pushbuttons.
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
Enables easy and secure color changes for wiring devices, including those with pushbuttons, by providing a flexible and aligned cover system that ensures full functionality regardless of the presence or absence of cosmetic caps, and facilitates easy installation and removal without compromising operational integrity.
Implementation Method 1
The mounting plate 12 includes four slots 18 that receive resilient snaps 22 on the frame of the color change kit
Implementation Method 2
A removable cover system with pivotally attached covers and resilient fastening features
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, a system includes an electrical device and a removable cover, where the electrical device and the removable cover are adapted to enable the removable cover to pivot into an installed position on the electrical device. In another embodiment, a system includes an electrical device having a pushbutton, and a cover adapted to be removably attached to the electrical device, where the cover includes an opening for accessing the pushbutton, and where the pushbutton includes a sub button and a cosmetic cap adapted to be removably attached to the sub button.