Universal Mounting Frame for Vertical and Horizontal Electrical Devices

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing mounting systems for electrical devices lack universal compatibility for horizontal and vertical orientations, leading to increased costs and inventory complexity due to the need for multiple dedicated fixing frames, which can result in incorrect installation and confusion for users.

Innovation Solution

A device mounting assembly with a universal clipping mechanism that allows a single fixing frame to be converted for both horizontal and vertical orientations using a dividing means with engagement slots and arresting ribs, ensuring correct installation and reducing inventory needs.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If dedicated fixing frames are used for each electrical accessory orientation, then correct installation orientation is ensured, but number of fixing frames increases and cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation orientation correctnessVSAvoidnumber of fixing frames
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by designing a single fixing frame that can accommodate both horizontal and vertical orientations through the integration of a divisor component. The divisor with its engagement means allows the same fixing frame to securely mount electrical accessories in multiple orientations, eliminating the need for separate dedicated fixing frames for each orientation while ensuring correct installation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies segmentation by introducing a divisor component that divides the fixing frame into different mounting zones. The divisor includes engagement means that can selectively engage with the fixing frame to create distinct horizontal and vertical mounting configurations, allowing a single fixing frame to serve multiple orientation purposes through modular segmentation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Reliability

If multiple dedicated fixing frames for different orientations are maintained, then correct installation is ensured, but inventory cost and complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation correctnessVSAvoidinventory management complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The fixing frame is designed as a universal platform that can accommodate both horizontal and vertical orientations through the divisor mechanism. This multi-functionality reduces inventory complexity by consolidating multiple orientation-specific frames into a single versatile product that distributors and retailers need to stock only once.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The divisor acts as an intermediary component that enables a single fixing frame to achieve multiple orientation configurations. By introducing this mediator element, the system avoids the complexity of maintaining multiple dedicated frames while ensuring correct installation for different orientations through the divisor's selective engagement mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Quantity of substance

If a single fixing frame is used for both orientations, then inventory cost is reduced, but functionality may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenumber of fixing framesVSAvoidproduct functionality
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The divisor component segments the fixing frame into distinct mounting zones with specific engagement characteristics. The first engagement means on the divisor interfaces with the fixing frame while the second engagement means interfaces with the electrical accessory, creating orientation-specific mounting configurations that preserve the functionality and performance requirements for both horizontal and vertical installations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The fixing frame system becomes dynamic through the divisor, which can be positioned and engaged to create different mounting configurations. The divisor's ability to be selectively engaged with the fixing frame allows the system to adapt its orientation and mounting characteristics based on the specific installation requirements, maintaining product functionality across different orientations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentEP4362253A1Device mounting assembly for vertical and horizontal mounting
Publication Date: 2024.05.01 SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC IND SAS
  • EP4362253A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4362253A1 patent drawingFigure 2~3(b)
  • EP4362253A1 patent drawingFigure 4~6

AI summary

The present invention provides a device mounting assembly (100) for vertical or horizontal mounting of electrical devices (128), said device mounting assembly (100) comprising: an installation box (102), an adapter assembly (104) and a cover plate (106) placed on said adapter assembly (104). The adapter assembly (104) comprises a fixing frame (108) having plurality of paired clipping slots (110) disposed on its inner periphery; and at least one dividing means (112). The dividing means (112) comprises a first set of engagement means (114) disposed at its longitudinal opposite ends; and a second set of engagement means (116) disposed along both of its longitudinally extended surfaces. The profile of said first set of engagement means (114) complements the profile of said corresponding paired clipping slots (110) of said fixing frame (108). Further, the profile of said second set of engagement means (116) is provided with a profile complimentary to that of said electrical device (128).