Weatherproof Mounting Member With Rotational Seal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mounting assemblies for electrical devices lack a robust, waterproof, and adjustable solution that allows for rotational movement while maintaining a secure connection to the support structure, limiting flexibility and durability in outdoor or exposed environments.
Innovation Solution
A one-piece, molded metal mounting member with internal and external threads, an annular seal, and a cap to form a weatherproof seal, enabling rotational adjustment and connection to both support structures and other mounting members, allowing for flexible positioning and secure waterproofing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional mounting bracket with separate components is used, then assembly flexibility is improved, but waterproofing reliability deteriorates due to multiple connection points
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate mounting components into a single integrated mounting bracket assembly that includes the bracket body, seal, cap, and wiring compartment as one unified structure. This eliminates multiple connection points where water could penetrate, while the integrated design maintains assembly flexibility through the unified structure's inherent adjustability features.
2Reliability
If a sealed mounting structure is used, then waterproofing reliability is improved, but rotational adjustment capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting bracket incorporates a dynamic seal system that maintains waterproofing during rotational movement. The seal is designed to remain engaged with the support structure throughout the rotation range, and the cap features a weatherproof opening that allows rotation while preventing water ingress. This enables the electrical device to be adjusted to various orientations while maintaining protection from water and dust.
3Reliability
If a one-piece molded mounting member is used, then waterproofing reliability is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting bracket, seal, and cap are formed as a single integrated component through molding or casting processes. This one-piece construction eliminates the need for separate manufacturing and assembly steps for these components, reducing overall manufacturing complexity while ensuring perfect waterproofing through the integrated design with no seams or gaps between separate parts.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple mounting members are coupled together, then adaptability is improved, but connection complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting bracket is designed with universal coupling features that allow multiple brackets to be connected in various configurations using the same interface. The external and internal threads provide a standardized connection method that works for any combination of brackets, simplifying the connection process while enabling flexible mounting arrangements for multiple electrical devices.
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical assembly having a support, a mounting member and an electrical device attached to the mounting member and the support. The mounting member is a one piece integrally formed unit having an interior cavity for receiving electrical wires from the power source and supplying the electrical wires to the electrical device. The mounting member has a coupling at a first end of the mounting member with internal threads having an annular recess receiving a seal member for forming a weatherproof seal with the support while allowing limited rotational adjustment of the mounting member with the support and maintaining the weatherproof seal. The mounting member has a second end with a coupling having external threads complementing the internal threads of the first coupling to enable a plurality of the mounting members to be coupled together and forming a weatherproof connection between the adjacent mounting members.