Wall-Plate Networking Assembly for Space-Saving IoT Retrofits
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional computer system networking devices require separate space and are costly to integrate with electrical wiring devices, leading to space constraints and increased maintenance needs when trying to network IoT devices.
Innovation Solution
Integrating computer system networking devices, such as routers or hubs, into electrical wiring devices or their associated wall plates, allowing them to be mounted without penetrating the wall and sharing power connections, thus eliminating the need for additional outlets and simplifying retrofitting and new builds.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If computer system networking devices are integrated into electrical wiring devices, then space requirements are reduced and maintenance needs are simplified, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines computer system networking device functionality (router, hub, Wi-Fi access point) with electrical wiring devices (switches, receptacles, dimmers) into a single integrated unit. The networking device is positioned over and bank against the wall, attached through a subplate and/or wall plate, while sharing the same electrical power connection. This merging eliminates the need for separate standalone networking devices and reduces overall space requirements without requiring additional wall penetrations.
2Ease of manufacture
If computer system networking devices are integrated into electrical wiring devices, then the number of outlets and wall penetrations is reduced, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated device is segmented into distinct functional modules: the electrical wiring device portion (switch, receptacle, or dimmer) and the computer system networking device portion (router, hub, or Wi-Fi access point). These modules are positioned adjacent to one another and mechanically connected through a subplate and/or wall plate, allowing them to be manufactured separately and assembled together during installation. This segmentation enables retrofitting in existing structures without requiring additional wall penetrations while maintaining manufacturing efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated device provides multiple functions within a single installation: electrical control (switching, dimming, or receptacle functionality) and computer networking (routing, hub connectivity, or Wi-Fi access). By combining these functions and sharing the electrical power connection, the device eliminates the need for separate power outlets and wall penetrations for each function, reducing installation complexity and cost despite the increased functionality.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If computer system networking devices are positioned over the wall without penetrating it, then the wall structure is preserved and installation is simplified, but the mounting complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A subplate and/or wall plate serves as an intermediary mounting structure between the integrated device and the wall. The subplate is positioned within the wall opening and provides structural support, while the wall plate covers the opening and mechanically connects the electrical wiring device portion and the computer system networking device portion. This intermediary mounting system allows the device to be securely attached to the wall without penetrating it, preserving the wall structure while simplifying installation through a standardized mounting interface.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is directed to a computer system networking device assembly including a computer system networking device including a computer system networking device module coupled to a power supply circuit, and at least one connection point on the power supply circuit configured to be directly connected via an AC power wire to a mains power supply. The device can include an enclosure housing the device module and power supply circuit; and a subplate or wall plate having a first aperture formed therethrough, wherein the front surface of the enclosure is configured to be positioned through the first aperture formed in a subplate or a wall plate. The subplate or wall plate further can include a second aperture formed therethrough being configured to accommodate at least a portion of an electrical wiring device.