Wire Management Device with Breakaway Alignment Fins
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wire management systems for glass wall and storefront installations are cumbersome and aesthetically unpleasing, as they require precise alignment and often necessitate a two-person installation process, with exposed wires being unsightly and prone to damage due to sharp edges in mullion structures.
Innovation Solution
A wire management device with a planar base plate and alignment fins that securely fasten to the mullion structure, allowing for easy alignment and secure wire management, which can be covered with a matching finish to blend with the mullion appearance, simplifying installation and enhancing aesthetics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional wire mounting structures are used on mullions, then wires can be secured and hidden, but precise alignment is required along the entire length of the mullion, making installation time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting device includes pre-formed alignment fins that protrude from the mounting surface and engage with corresponding features on the mullion structure. These alignment fins are created during manufacturing, so the alignment function is built into the device before installation, eliminating the need for field alignment operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment fins automatically position the mounting device correctly on the mullion structure through mechanical engagement during the fastening process itself. The device self-aligns as it is being installed, without requiring separate alignment operations or multiple persons to hold and position it.
2Reliability
If traditional wire mounting structures are used on mullions, then wires can be managed, but multiple structures must be precisely aligned along the height of the mullion, requiring two-person installation and repeated adjustments
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment fins are pre-formed during manufacturing with precise geometry that ensures correct positioning. This preliminary creation of alignment features eliminates the need for field measurements, markings, and iterative adjustments that currently slow down installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment function is extracted from the installation process and integrated into the mounting device itself through the alignment fins. This separates the alignment function from the fastening operation, allowing both to occur simultaneously during a single-person installation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If wires are installed inside mullion structures without securing methods, then wire routing is possible, but wires are exposed, prone to damage from sharp edges, and aesthetically unpleasing
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting device combines three functions into a single integrated component: (1) the mounting surface for attaching to the mullion, (2) the wire management structure with channels or clips to secure wires, and (3) the alignment fins for precise positioning. This merging eliminates the need for separate alignment operations and wire securing steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting device acts as an intermediary between the mullion structure and the wires. It provides a secure mounting point on the mullion while simultaneously offering protection and organization for the wires, shielding them from sharp edges and preventing exposure.
Data Source
AI summary
A wire management device for mounting to a structure that has a mounting surface with an edge includes a planar portion having opposing side edges, a front face and a rear face that is configured for engaging the mounting surface. A wire management structure is coupled to extend from the front face and is configured for capturing elongated wires to secure a portion of the wires with the wire management device. An alignment structure is positioned proximate at least one side edge of the planar portion. The alignment structure is configured for engaging an edge of the mounting surface to align the side edges of the planar portion with respect to the mounting surface edges for centering the device. Once the wire management device is mounted, the alignment structure is breakable from the planar portion for being separated and discarded. Then a cover is clipped onto the wire management structure.