Socket Add-on Device for Concealed Cable Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Visible communication cables in buildings pose aesthetic issues and risk degradation, and traditional solutions like dedicated ducts or sheaths are costly and cumbersome, especially in existing installations.
Innovation Solution
An add-on device for communication or power sockets that includes a body with a passage zone and a removable fixing system, allowing cables to be routed within the wall while maintaining a flush appearance, using existing sheaths and minimizing visual impact and installation complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If visible cable routing is used, then installation simplicity is improved, but aesthetic appearance deteriorates and cable degradation risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The add-on device serves as an intermediary component installed between the wall and socket support, providing a passage zone that routes cables through the wall structure rather than along its surface. This mediator enables cables to travel invisibly within the wall cavity while maintaining simple connection points at both ends.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions cable routing from a two-dimensional surface-level path to a three-dimensional path through the wall thickness. The passage zone extends through the wall structure, allowing cables to be concealed within the wall volume rather than exposed on the surface.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If dedicated ducts or sheaths are installed, then cable protection and aesthetic appearance are improved, but equipment cost and installation complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The add-on device performs multiple functions simultaneously: it provides cable routing through the passage zone, protects cables within its body structure, maintains aesthetic appearance by being flush-mounted, and simplifies installation through the removable fixing system. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate dedicated ducts or sheaths.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts the cable routing function from complex dedicated duct systems and consolidates it into a compact add-on device that attaches to existing sockets. This extraction maintains cable protection capabilities while dramatically reducing installation complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If socket thickness is increased to provide passage zone, then cable routing capability is improved, but visual appearance and space utilization deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The add-on device is nested within the existing socket structure, attaching to the rear of the socket support and utilizing the space between the wall and socket. This nesting approach provides cable routing capability without increasing the external dimensions or visual profile of the socket.
Solution Approach 2:
The passage zone utilizes the depth dimension of the wall cavity rather than increasing the face dimension of the socket. By routing cables through the thickness of the wall rather than extending the socket outward, the invention provides cable routing capability while maintaining a sleek visual appearance.
Data Source
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AI summary
An add-on device (5) for a communication (3) or power outlet comprising a body (29) arranged around a passageway (30), an insertion inlet for a cable, such as a communication cable or a power supply cable, an outlet, such as a communication outlet or a power supply outlet, provided with a connection element for said cable, the outlet being formed in or attached to the outer contour (39) of the body (29), and an assembly system (67) for the outlet (3) provided with a removable fixing member (69) for the wall (9) or the opening (6) and a removable fixing member (75) for the support (18), the add-on device (5) being arranged to be positioned, in an assembled position of the assembly system (67), between the wall (9) and the support (18) or between the opening (6) and the support (18) along the axis of passage (31).