Universal Modular Support Bracket for Electrical Modules
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical module assemblies fail to securely attach various types of light switches and outlet sockets to junction boxes without damaging the underlying paint and drywall, and often result in the modules falling into the junction box opening.
Innovation Solution
A universal modular support bracket assembly with a mounting fastener and rotatable support bracket that securely engages with multiple types of electrical modules, providing additional support to prevent damage and falling by extending beyond the module's mounting portion and engaging with the junction box.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If prior art assemblies use specialized frames or cover plates for specific electrical modules, then the assembly is customized for that module type, but the assembly cannot accommodate other types of electrical modules and requires multiple different assemblies
Solution Approach 1:
The support bracket is designed with a universal configuration that can accommodate multiple types of electrical modules (light switches, dimmer switches, outlet sockets) through a single standardized design, eliminating the need for multiple specialized assemblies while maintaining adaptability to different module types
2Ease of manufacture
If the electrical module is directly mounted to the junction box, then the installation is simple, but the underlying paint and drywall are exposed to wear and damage
Solution Approach 1:
The support bracket serves as an intermediary component between the electrical module and the junction box, providing a protective interface that prevents direct contact between the module and the vulnerable paint and drywall surfaces, thereby preventing wear and damage while maintaining installation simplicity
3Device complexity
If the electrical module is secured only by the mounting fastener, then the assembly is simple, but the module may fall into the junction box opening
Solution Approach 1:
The support bracket extends beyond the mounting portion of the electrical module in directions along longitudinal and lateral axes, creating a dimensional barrier that prevents the module from falling into the junction box opening, adding a spatial dimension of protection beyond simple fastening
4Ease of operation
If the support bracket is fixed in position, then the installation is straightforward, but the bracket cannot adapt to different mounting configurations on various surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The support bracket is designed to be rotatably disposable between the mounting portion of an electrical module and a structure surface, enabling dynamic adjustment to different mounting configurations on walls, ceilings, or floors while maintaining straightforward installation through a single rotatable motion
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical module support assembly for use with a junction box disposed in a building structure at a structure surface, the assembly comprising: a mounting fastener; an electrical module having a mounting portion with a module fastener aperture disposed through the mounting portion; and a support bracket defining a longitudinal axis and a lateral axis disposed perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, the support bracket having a modular face, a junction box face opposite the modular face, and a bracket fastener aperture disposed through the support bracket, the support bracket being rotatably disposable between the mounting portion and the structure surface with the modular face disposed towards the electrical module, the support bracket extending beyond the mounting portion in directions respectively along the longitudinal and lateral axes away from the support bracket with the mounting fastener disposed through the module fastener aperture and the bracket fastener aperture.