Switchboard Frame Assembly with Integrated Slot and Transverse Fixing Plate
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Solution Overview
Problem
The assembly of switchboard frames is complex and costly due to the use of massive and structurally complex corner joint elements, leading to cumbersome and expensive packaging, as well as long execution times.
Innovation Solution
A frame assembly comprising a hollow member with slots and a connecting element featuring an insulating body and a fixing metal plate, which is inserted transversally into the hollow member to couple with fixing means, allowing for secure attachment without the need for multiple screws, enabling easier and more efficient assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If massive and structurally complex corner joint elements are used to ensure adequate connection and avoid relative displacements, then connection reliability is improved, but device complexity and packaging complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The corner joint element is divided into separate components: the frame member with integrated fixing means and the connecting element with fixing plate. This segmentation allows each component to be simpler and more standardized, while maintaining connection reliability through the dedicated fixing mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixing means are integrated directly into the hollow member of the frame assembly, combining the frame structure and connection function into a unified component. This eliminates the need for separate massive corner joint elements while ensuring adequate connection.
2Stability of the object's composition
If multiple fixing screws are used for each coupling between frame member and corner joint element, then connection stability is improved, but assembly time and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing screws are extracted as separate, standardized fastening components rather than being integrated into a complex corner joint element. This allows for simpler main body structures and faster assembly through standardized fastening procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The hollow member of the frame assembly is self-equipped with fixing means (integrated mounting structures), allowing it to directly interface with the connecting element's fixing plate without requiring additional complex corner joint components. This self-sufficiency simplifies the overall assembly process.
3Strength
If massive corner joint elements are used, then structural strength is improved, but packaging becomes cumbersome and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
Dividing the frame system into standardized frame assemblies with integrated fixing means and separate connecting elements allows for more efficient packaging. Each component can be packaged separately in optimized configurations, reducing overall packaging material requirements compared to massive corner joint elements.
4Reliability
If a large number of fixing screws are used, then connection reliability is improved, but the number of parts and packaging complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing means are merged into the hollow member structure itself, creating an integrated connection system. This reduces the total number of separate parts while maintaining connection reliability through the built-in fixing mechanism that works with the connecting element's fixing plate.
Data Source
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AI summary
An assembly for the frame of a switchboard, comprising a hollow member which extends lengthwise along a reference axis and which comprises at least one slot. The assembly further comprises at least one connecting element for connecting the assembly to a corresponding corner joint element of the frame, and the connecting element comprises an insulating body and a fixing metal plate which is associated to a carrying part of the insulating body. The carrying part is at least partially inserted transversally with respect to the reference axis into the hollow member through the slot, so as to arrange at least a portion of the associated fixing metal plate into the hollow member transversally with respect to the reference axis.