Rotating Duplex Module for Circuit Selection in Compact Wiring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current integrated electrical wiring systems are too large for confined areas, such as under low profile floors or in walls, limiting their flexibility and installation options in compact spaces.
Innovation Solution
A multiple circuit duplex module with a detachable duplex element that can be rotated to select from four power supply circuits, combined with a compact zone box featuring a 90-degree circuit dodging function, allowing for flexible connection and distribution of power in compact spaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional point to point wiring systems or standard zone boxes are used, then circuit selection and power distribution flexibility is achieved, but the device size becomes too large for confined areas such as under low profile floors or in walls
Solution Approach 1:
The zone box is divided into modular components: a chassis containing circuit selection mechanisms and multiple detachable receptacle assemblies. Each receptacle assembly can be independently attached or removed, allowing the system to be configured for different circuit selections while maintaining a compact form factor suitable for confined installation spaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes rotational orientation of detachable receptacle assemblies relative to the chassis to select different circuits. By rotating the receptacle to different angular positions (e.g., 0°, 90°, 180°, 270°), different internal contacts align with corresponding chassis contacts, enabling circuit selection without increasing the physical footprint of the device.
2Adaptability or versatility
If modular wiring systems with zone wiring are used, then flexibility in structural wiring is improved, but the complexity of ensuring correct connections increases
Solution Approach 1:
The receptacle assemblies are designed with asymmetric contact arrangements that only mate correctly with the chassis in specific rotational orientations. This asymmetric design provides mechanical guidance and forcing functions that prevent incorrect connections, as the receptacle can only be attached to the chassis when the contacts are properly aligned, thereby simplifying the connection process despite the modular complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates self-aligning and self-verifying connection mechanisms. When a receptacle assembly is attached to the chassis, the asymmetric contact geometry automatically guides it into the correct orientation, and the physical engagement of contacts provides inherent verification that the connection is proper, eliminating the need for complex external configuration or verification procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for selecting power from two or more circuits made from a multiple circuit duplex module comprising a chassis having an electrical chassis receptacle providing a plurality of connection points for the selection of power from two or more different circuits; a duplex element having at least one electrical duplex receptacle thereon to deliver power from one of the two or more different circuits to an external device in electrical contact with the at least one duplex receptacle; first conductor means for electrically connecting the at least one duplex receptacle to selected connection points in the chassis receptacle; wherein the duplex element is connectable to the chassis in different orientations, the orientation of the duplex element determining which one of the two or more different circuits is electrically connected to the at least one duplex receptacle.