Single-Sided Junction Block Center Connect Cable Assembly

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing modular wall systems face challenges in efficiently distributing electrical power and communications due to limited space within raceways for junction blocks and connectors, especially when panels intersect at angles, requiring custom and costly couplers and complex modifications.

Innovation Solution

A single-sided junction block assembly with center connect cable assemblies that allow for central electrical interconnection within the raceway, reducing the need for dual-sided connectors and enabling flexible panel configurations without the need for custom couplers.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If dual-sided junction blocks with connectors at both ends are used in modular wall systems, then electrical power and communications can be distributed to adjacent panels, but the space required within raceways increases and complexity increases when panels intersect at angles

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepanel configuration flexibilityVSAvoidjunction block and connector complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The electrical distribution system is segmented into modular components: a simplified single-sided junction block and separate connector assemblies. This segmentation allows the junction block to focus on power distribution while connectors handle panel interconnections, reducing overall system complexity and enabling flexible panel configurations including angular intersections.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The connector assemblies serve multiple functions: they provide electrical connection between panels, accommodate various panel configurations including angular intersections, and interface with the simplified junction block. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for complex dual-sided junction blocks with integrated connectors at both ends.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If custom couplers are used for intersecting panels at angles, then electrical connections can be maintained, but costs increase and device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveangular panel intersection capabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing cost

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The system separates the junction block from the connector assemblies, allowing each component to be manufactured independently using standard processes. The connector assemblies are designed to accommodate angular intersections through their mechanical design rather than requiring custom-coupled components, significantly reducing manufacturing costs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of designing complex custom couplers to fit angular intersections, the solution inverts the approach: standard connectors are designed with inherent flexibility to accommodate various angles, and the junction block remains simple and uniform. This reversal of design complexity from custom couplers to standardized flexible connectors reduces manufacturing costs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

3Ease of operation

If more space is allocated within raceways for dual-sided junction blocks and connectors, then electrical interconnections can be provided, but the available space for other components decreases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveelectrical interconnection capabilityVSAvoidraceway space

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

By segmenting the electrical distribution system into a compact single-sided junction block and separate connector assemblies, the overall space requirement within the raceway is reduced. The junction block only needs to accommodate connections on one side, freeing up space that would otherwise be required for dual-sided connectors and extensive cabling.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS7905737B2Center connect single-sided junction block

Publication Date: 2011.03.15 BYRNE NORMAN R

AI summary

A junction block assembly (300) includes a junction block (302). The junction block (302) is single-sided in that it provides for interconnection of electrical receptacle blocks (310, 308) only on one side of the junction block (302). The junction block assembly (300) includes a first center connect cable assembly (304) and a second center connect cable assembly (306). The center connect cable assemblies (304, 306) are adapted to electrically interconnect to the junction block (302), in a manner so that electrical power received from one of the cable assemblies (304, 306) may be applied to the electrical receptacle blocks (310, 308) connected to the junction block (302), and also to apply power to the other of the center connect cable assemblies (304, 306).