Electrical modules with reversible connection arrangement

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electrical distribution systems in modular furniture, such as wall panels, require significant width due to the need for electrical distribution harnesses and connectors, making it difficult to accommodate them in thin panels like one-inch thick panels.

Innovation Solution

An electrical distribution system comprising first and second electrical modules that can be selectively connected in two orientations, allowing direct connection of electrical receptacles facing the same or opposite directions without additional spacers, thus enabling installation in thin furniture.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional electrical distribution harnesses and connectors are used, then electrical power can be distributed to receptacles, but the width of wall panels must be increased to accommodate these components

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveelectrical power distributionVSAvoidwall panel width

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLength of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent removes the electrical distribution harness and intermediate connectors from the system. Electrical modules now connect directly to one another without these intermediary components, eliminating the space they occupied and enabling installation in thin wall panels while maintaining power distribution functionality

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent combines the functions of multiple components (electrical module, connector, and harness connection points) into a single integrated electrical module. Each module has built-in connection capabilities at its ends, eliminating the need for separate connectors and harnesses, thereby reducing the overall width required

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Reliability

If electrical modules are connected in fixed orientations, then connection reliability is improved, but flexibility in installation orientations is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoidinstallation orientation flexibility

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The electrical modules are designed with universal connection capabilities that function identically in any orientation. The connection mechanism works reliably whether modules are connected horizontally, vertically, or at angles, allowing installers to adapt to various spatial configurations without compromising connection reliability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The connection system transitions from fixed-orientation requirements to dynamic adaptability. The electrical modules can be connected in multiple orientations through their standardized interfaces, allowing the system to adapt to different installation scenarios while maintaining consistent connection reliability across all orientations

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS20250316963A1Electrical modules with reversible connection arrangement

Publication Date: 2025.10.09 GROUP DEKKO INC

AI summary

An electrified office furniture system includes: at least one piece of office furniture; and an electrical distribution system associated with the at least one piece of office furniture, the electrical distribution system including: a first electrical module; and a second electrical module, the first electrical module and the second electrical module being selectively and releasably connected directly to one another in one of two orientations, and being configured for being selectively and releasably connected directly to one another in the other of the two orientations.