Wall Box Mounting Bracket for Flexible Load Control Layouts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Home automation systems lack a compact and flexible control device that can efficiently mount to various wall boxes, limiting the design freedom and functionality of load control systems.
Innovation Solution
A control device comprising a faceplate subassembly, a main control module, and a mounting bracket with flexible arms and flanges that can be securely attached to a wall box, allowing for adjustable positioning and extended button placement outside the wall box perimeter.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If buttons are placed inside the wall box perimeter, then the control device fits within standard wall boxes, but the design flexibility and functionality are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extends buttons outside the traditional wall box perimeter by using a mounting bracket with arms that protrude beyond the wall box face. This dimensional extension allows buttons to be positioned in a third spatial dimension relative to the wall box plane, enabling multiple button configurations without requiring larger wall boxes while maintaining a compact overall structure
2Volume of moving object
If a compact control device is used, then the mounting space is reduced, but the number of buttons and configurations are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The control device is segmented into modular components: a compact main body housing the control module, a separate mounting bracket with multiple arms, and buttons that can be independently positioned on different arms. This segmentation allows the compact main body to remain small while the distributed button arrangements on the bracket arms provide multiple configuration options without increasing the core device volume
Solution Approach 2:
By positioning buttons on arms that extend in multiple directions from the compact main body, the patent utilizes three-dimensional spatial arrangement. This allows multiple buttons to be distributed across different spatial zones without increasing the footprint of the main control device, enabling diverse button configurations within a compact volume
3Adaptability or versatility
If buttons are extended outside the wall box, then more button configurations are possible, but the mounting complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting bracket is designed as a universal structure with multiple identical arms that can each hold buttons in different positions and orientations. The arms are standardized with consistent mounting features, allowing the same bracket design to accommodate various button configurations without requiring custom components for each arrangement, thereby reducing overall mounting complexity despite the extended button placement
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides a compact, modular, and adjustable control device that enhances design flexibility and functionality by enabling multiple button configurations without requiring larger wall boxes, while ensuring secure mounting and easy installation.
Implementation Method 1
Each arm of the plurality of arms of the attachment member may be configured to flex
Data Source
AI summary
A mounting bracket for coupling a control device to a wall box is disclosed. The mounting bracket may include a body having an inner perimeter defining an opening. A plurality of flanges may extend into the opening. Each flange of the plurality of flanges may be configured to be engaged by an arm of a faceplate for coupling the faceplate to the mounting bracket.