Rotational Ceiling Power Connector for Single-Point Device Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ceiling-mounted suspended devices often require multiple points of mounting connectivity, which can be inefficient and costly, and existing power conveyance systems do not maintain alignment with neighboring devices or account for varying device weights and centers of gravity, leading to stress and misalignment.
Innovation Solution
A J-box with integrated power and data distribution hub and modular wiring system that allows for single-point mounting and alignment, using a rotational mechanism to adjust for device orientation and weight distribution, while conveying power and data through flexible armored cables.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If multiple mounting points are used to support ceiling suspended devices, then structural stability and load distribution are improved, but installation complexity and material costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is segmented into a primary ceiling structure attachment point and a secondary rotational mounting mechanism. The rotational mechanism can be divided into a fixed upper portion attached to the ceiling and a rotating lower portion that holds the device, allowing the system to function as both a single-point and multi-point mounting solution.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system incorporates a rotational mechanism that allows dynamic adjustment of the device orientation. The rotational joint enables the lower mounting point to rotate and align with neighboring devices while the upper mounting point remains fixed, providing adaptability without requiring multiple fixed mounting points.
2Reliability
If a rigid conduit is used to convey power to ceiling mounted devices, then structural strength and power delivery reliability are improved, but adaptability to device orientation changes and alignment adjustment are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The power conveyance system uses flexible armored cables instead of rigid conduits, allowing the cable to bend and rotate with the mounting mechanism. This enables the power supply to adapt to device orientation changes while maintaining reliable electrical connection, as the flexible cable can accommodate rotational movement without breaking or disconnecting.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible armored cable acts as an intermediary between the rigid ceiling structure and the movable device. It transmits power reliably from the fixed ceiling mounting point while accommodating the rotational and orientational movements of the device, bridging the gap between structural rigidity and mechanical flexibility.
3Ease of operation
If the device center of gravity is not co-aligned with the vertical axis of the mounting conduit, then installation flexibility is improved, but undue stress on the mounting structure and device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rotational mounting mechanism allows the device to be suspended from a single overhead point while the device can rotate to achieve proper alignment. The rotational joint absorbs misalignment stresses by allowing angular adjustment, preventing transmission of undue stress to the ceiling mounting structure while maintaining installation flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotational mounting mechanism with bearing support acts as a counterbalancing element that supports the device weight and compensates for off-center gravity effects. The bearing assembly is designed to handle radial and axial loads, effectively counteracting the stresses caused by misaligned center of gravity while allowing installation flexibility.
4Stability of the object's composition
If existing swivel joint connectors are used to restore mounting elevation, then mechanical alignment recovery is improved, but device alignment with neighboring devices and longitudinal orientation are not restored
Solution Approach 1:
The rotational mounting mechanism serves multiple functions: it restores mounting elevation like a swivel joint, aligns the device with neighboring devices through rotational adjustment, and maintains proper longitudinal orientation. This multi-functional mechanism eliminates the need for separate alignment systems while providing comprehensive positioning capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanism incorporates rotational degrees of freedom that allow dynamic alignment adjustment. The device can rotate about the vertical axis to align with neighboring devices while maintaining proper elevation, providing both mechanical recovery and precise alignment in a single integrated system.
Data Source
AI summary
A single point mounting device with power/data connectively and rotational capability configured to couple to a structure above and support multi-shaped and sized power consuming device/s coupled below.