Universal Electrical Box System with Adaptable Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is no known box system that can universally adapt to receive strap-based, non-strap based, and water-resistant electrical devices, and existing systems require pre-fabricated multi-gang covers for individual mounting of single gang devices on multi-gang enclosures.
Innovation Solution
A universal electrical box system with adaptable mounting interfaces, including inner and outer posts, and a sealing gasket, allowing for the mounting of multiple single gang devices and their respective covers on a multi-gang enclosure without the need for pre-fabricated multi-gang covers, accommodating different types of electrical devices and providing a water-resistant seal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional multi-gang box system is used with pre-fabricated multi-gang covers, then multiple single gang devices can be mounted on a multi-gang enclosure, but the system lacks adaptability to receive different types of electrical devices (strap-based, non-strap based, water-resistant) and requires complex pre-fabricated covers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single multi-gang box body that can accommodate multiple types of electrical devices (strap-based, non-strap based, water-resistant) through standardized mounting interfaces. The box body itself becomes a universal platform that doesn't require different pre-fabricated covers for different device types, thereby improving adaptability while reducing the complexity associated with creating and managing multiple specialized cover types.
2Ease of operation
If pre-fabricated multi-gang covers are used for mounting single gang devices on multi-gang enclosures, then individual devices can be mounted, but the system requires complex pre-fabricated components and reduces ease of manufacture
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by separating the mounting function from the cover structure. Instead of integrating device-specific mounting features into pre-fabricated multi-gang covers, the invention provides standardized mounting interfaces (posts and receptacles) on the box body itself. This allows individual single gang devices to be mounted directly to the box body without requiring complex pre-fabricated covers, thereby improving ease of manufacture while maintaining ease of operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a universal mounting system with multiple adapter types is implemented, then adaptability to different electrical devices is improved, but the quantity of components and system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies merging by integrating multiple mounting capabilities directly into the box body structure through standardized posts and receptacles. Instead of requiring separate adapter components for different device types, the invention combines strap-based mounting, non-strap based mounting, and water-resistant sealing capabilities into the fundamental box body design. This reduces the quantity of separate adapter components while maintaining the ability to mount various types of electrical devices.
Data Source
AI summary
A switch actuator device is disclosed. The switch actuator device includes a switch housing, a body having a first and second arm, and a resilient member having a first and second end. The first and second ends of the resilient member are configured to be coupled to the body and switch housing, respectively. The resilient member exerts a first force on the body when the body is at a first position, a second force when the body is at a second position, and a third force when the body is at a threshold position. When the body is rotated about a pivot point from the first to second position, or vice versa, the respective first or second force increases in magnitude and acts on the body to first resist the rotation until the body is in the threshold position, and then assists the rotation.