Vertical T-junction block for modular wall panels

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electrical power distribution systems in modular wall panels face challenges in providing convenient and efficient vertical electrical connections, especially when panels are arranged at angles or intersecting configurations, leading to complex and costly modifications and limited space for multiple electrical circuits.

Innovation Solution

The development of a vertical T-junction block assembly that allows for both horizontal and vertical electrical interconnections, using flexible conduits and interchangeable connectors to accommodate various panel configurations without the need for custom modifications, ensuring efficient power distribution across multiple panels.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional horizontal junction blocks are used in modular wall panels, then electrical power distribution can be provided, but vertical electrical connections become complex and require custom modifications when panels are arranged at angles or intersecting configurations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepanel configuration adaptabilityVSAvoidmodification complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The junction block assembly is designed to perform multiple functions: it can provide both horizontal electrical connections through its side connectors and vertical electrical connections through its top/bottom connectors. This universal design eliminates the need for different custom modifications for various panel configurations, as the same assembly type can accommodate both straight and intersecting panel arrangements.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The invention transitions from conventional two-dimensional horizontal electrical connections to three-dimensional connections by adding vertical connectivity capabilities. The junction block assembly includes connectors oriented in multiple directions (horizontal and vertical), enabling electrical power distribution in three-dimensional space to accommodate intersecting wall panels at various angles.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Ease of operation

If custom modifications are made to power systems for intersecting wall panels, then vertical electrical connections can be achieved, but installation cost and time increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation easeVSAvoidinstallation time
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The junction block assembly is pre-configured during manufacturing with both horizontal and vertical connectors already in place, along with the necessary conduits and wiring arrangements. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for on-site custom modifications, allowing installers to simply assemble the pre-configured units according to the panel layout, thereby reducing installation time and labor costs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Quantity of substance

If multiple electrical circuits are provided in limited raceway spaces, then comprehensive power distribution is achieved, but space for cabling and junction blocks becomes insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenumber of electrical circuitsVSAvoidraceway space
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The junction block assembly integrates multiple electrical circuits and components within a compact, nested structure. The assembly includes conduits, connectors, and wiring channels that are efficiently arranged in a space-saving configuration, allowing multiple electrical circuits to be accommodated within the limited raceway space of modular wall panels.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

4Ease of manufacture

If interchangeable junction blocks are used for different panel configurations, then standardization is improved, but the ability to accommodate vertical connections is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovestandardizationVSAvoidvertical connection capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The junction block assembly is designed as a standardized interchangeable unit that simultaneously provides both horizontal and vertical connection capabilities. This universal design allows the same standardised assembly to be used across different panel configurations (straight and intersecting) while maintaining the ability to provide vertical electrical connections, thus achieving both standardization and versatility.

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

Data Source

PatentUS8801445B2Vertical T-junction block assembly
Publication Date: 2014.08.12 BYRNE NORMAN R
  • US8801445B2 patent drawing
  • US8801445B2 patent drawing
  • US8801445B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A vertical junction block assembly (200) is disclosed having a receptacle block region (214) extending through a lateral or front surface (212) of the assembly (200). An internal wiring assembly (226) connects a horizontal terminal group (229) to a vertical male terminal set (262) which extends upwardly through a vertical junction block terminal housing (244). A vertical cable assembly (280) having a vertical cable connector (284) is connectable to the vertical male terminal set (262).