Through-Wall Generator Outlet Kit for Safe Indoor Power Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Homeowners face challenges in safely and conveniently providing electrical power from a generator to a single location within a building, as existing solutions like automatic transfer switches are costly and difficult to install, and passing extension cords through doors or windows is unsightly and hazardous.
Innovation Solution
A through-wall generator outlet and receptacle kit that includes a receptacle panel on the interior side of a wall and a generator outlet box on the exterior side, connected by a conduit stub, allowing for a hard-wired connection to pass electrical power through the wall, with features like locking blade plugs and circuit breakers for safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If an automatic transfer switch is used for generator installation, then power delivery capability is improved, but device complexity and installation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into separate exterior and interior components connected by a conduit. The exterior generator outlet box and interior receptacle panel are independent units that can be installed separately, reducing overall installation complexity while maintaining power delivery capability.
Solution Approach 2:
A conduit acts as an intermediary element connecting the exterior generator outlet to the interior receptacle. This intermediary structure simplifies the overall system by providing a dedicated pathway for electrical connection without requiring complex wiring or automatic transfer switches.
2Device complexity
If extension cords are used to deliver power, then installation complexity is reduced, but safety and aesthetics deteriorate due to tripping hazards
Solution Approach 1:
The harmful extension cord is extracted from the system and replaced with a permanent hard-wired connection through the wall. This eliminates the tripping hazard while maintaining the simplicity of generator connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The temporary extension cord solution is replaced with a permanent installation. The conduit and hard-wired connection provide a lasting, safe solution compared to disposable extension cords that create ongoing safety hazards.
3Reliability
If a permanent hard-wired connection is installed, then safety is improved by eliminating tripping hazards, but installation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hard-wired connection system is segmented into pre-fabricated exterior and interior components. This segmentation allows for simpler installation compared to traditional hard-wired connections, as the components can be mounted independently and connected through the conduit.
Solution Approach 2:
The conduit serves as an intermediary that simplifies the hard-wired connection process. It provides a pre-formed pathway for electrical conductors, eliminating the need for complex drilling and wiring through the wall structure.
4Adaptability or versatility
If doors or windows are kept open for extension cord passage, then power delivery is maintained, but security and comfort deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The extension cord passage through doors or windows is extracted and replaced with a permanent through-wall conduit. This allows power delivery without requiring open doors or windows, eliminating security and comfort issues.
Solution Approach 2:
The conduit is installed in advance during construction or renovation, creating a pre-prepared pathway for electrical connection. This preliminary action eliminates the need for temporary openings in doors or windows during generator operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A through-wall generator outlet and receptacle kit may include a receptacle panel with a plurality of outlets configured for use on an interior side of a wall. A generator outlet box may be configured for use on an exterior side of the wall. A conduit stub, installed within a cavity in the wall, may be used to join the receptacle panel to the generator outlet box.