WO2018087655A1

WO2018087655A1 - Method for manufacturing a box, in particular a junction box for electrical systems of a type having prefabricated conduits, and box realized by means of such method

Info

Publication number: WO2018087655A1
Application number: PCT/IB2017/056944
Authority: WO
Inventors: Mattia REGOSA; Flavio Regosa
Original assignee: IAM Industrial Asset Management S.r.l.
Priority date: 2016-11-10
Filing date: 2017-11-07
Publication date: 2018-05-17
Also published as: BR112019009608A2; EP3539189A1; IT201600113748A1; RU2019115807A

Abstract

The present invention has as its subject a method for manufacturing a box (9), starting from one or more profiled elements (1,1', 2,2'). In a first step of this method, the profiled elements (1,1', 2,2') are cut to measure transversally to the respective extension direction (X) thereof. In a second step of this method, a tubular structure is set up by assembling said profiled elements (1, 1',2,2'). The present invention also relates to a box (9) that is manufactured according to this method and which is suitable for being used as a junction box for electrical systems of the type having prefabricated conduits.

Description

DESCRIPTION

METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING A BOX, IN PARTICULAR A JUNCTION BOX FOR ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS OF A TYPE HAVING PREFABRICATED CONDUITS, AND BOX REALIZED BY MEANS OF SUCH METHOD

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The present invention relates to a method for manufacturing a box, in particular a junction box for electrical systems of the type having prefabricated conduits, and to a box that can be used as a junction box for electrical systems of the prefabricated conduit type.

Prefabricated electricity conduits, known as busways in the technical sector, are electricity lines of a modular type which extend in space following predetermined pathways obtained by appropriately arranged, in succession, straight conductor elements and curved conductor elements (for example elements enabling a deviating of the pathway by a right angle). The conductor elements, whether straight or curved, generally comprise: a casing having an open compartment towards the outside; a phase conductor bar; a neutral conductor bar; a protective earthing bar and a cover fixed to the casing for closing the compartment. The bars are housed inside the compartment and are individually covered with a sheath made of an insulating material. For the connection between the conductor elements, split terminals project from the ends of the casing, connected to the bars, and an earthing element is connected to the casing.

Accessory components are associated to the prefabricated electricity conduits, among which a junction box, which serves to collect the electric current at a point at which a user is installed which is to be powered by said current. This junction box, as it is known at present, has predetermined and standard dimensions, not modifiable on the basis of the various needs or the place of installation, during the setting up of the plant.

It is therefore an aim of the present invention to make available a junction box for electrical systems of the prefabricated conduit type, which makes an adapting to the dimensions of the place of installation possible, and/or during the setting up of the plant.

It is a further aim of the present invention to make available a junction box for electrical systems of the prefabricated conduit type, which is at the same time particularly simple both to manufacture and to install, and which is further particularly sturdy, reliable and safe once installed.

A final aim of the present invention to make available a junction box for electrical systems of the prefabricated conduit type, which enables a reduction in costs for setting up the plants.

The invention is capable of attaining the above-listed aims, and is the object of the claims appended to the present description. The technical innovative solution comprises in particular the technical characteristics set down in one or more of the following aspects:

i) in a first aspect of the invention relates to a method for manufacturing a box 9, in particular a junction box for electrical systems of the type having prefabricated conduits, starting from one or more profiled elements 1 , 1', 2,2', said profiled elements 1 , 1 ',2,2' being preferably made of a metal material and in particular being four in number, comprising steps of: a) transversally cutting to measure said profiled elements 1 ,1 ',2,2', optionally substantially perpendicularly, to the respective extension direction X thereof, and

b) setting up a tubular structure by assembling said profiled elements 1 ,1 ',2,2';

ii) a second aspect of the invention, dependent on the first aspect, relates to a method in which said profiled elements 1 ,1 ',2,2' comprising reciprocal interconnecting means, said interconnecting means being preferably integral to said profiled elements 1 ,1 ',2,2', and wherein said step b) comprises a sub-step of constraining at least a first 1 of said profiled elements 1 , 1 ',2,2' to at least a second 2 of said profiled elements 1 ,1 ',2,2' by means of said interconnecting means;

iii) a third aspect of the invention, dependent on any one from among the preceding aspects, relates to a method in which said step b) comprises a sub-step of applying at least an interconnecting element to at least a first 1 of said profiled elements 1, 1', 2,2' and to at least a second 2 of said profiled elements 1 , 1', 2,2', so as to constrain said at least a first 1 of said profiled elements 1 , 1 ',2,2' to said at least a second 2 of said profiled elements 1 ,1 ',2,2'; iv) a fourth aspect of the invention, dependent on the second aspect or the third aspect, relates to a method wherein sealing means is applied to said first 1 of said profiled elements 1 , 1 ',2,2' and/or said second 2 of said profiled elements 1 ,1 ',2,2' at said interconnecting means and/or said interconnecting element;

v) a fifth aspect of the invention, dependent on any one of the preceding aspects, relates to a method, in which at least one of the profiled elements 1 , 1 ',2,2' comprises anchoring means 10,10',20p,20p',20s,20s', said anchoring means 10,10',20p,20p',20s,20s' being preferably integral to said at least one from among said profiled elements 1 ,1 ',2,2', and wherein at least a cable or at least a support is applicable to said anchoring means 10,10',20p,20p',20s,20s';

vi) a sixth aspect of the invention, dependent on any one of the preceding aspects, relates to a method, comprising the step of:

c) setting up a box structure by application of at least a cover 3,3' to at least an end of said tubular structure, preferably by application of a first cover 3 to a first end of said tubular structure, and a second cover 3' to a second end of said tubular structure, said at least a cover 3,3' preferably being made of a plastic material;

vii) a seventh aspect of the invention, dependent on the preceding aspect, relates to a method, wherein at least a functional element is associated to said box structure and at least one from among said profiled elements 1 , 1 ',2,2' comprises an access window 8 and wherein said functional element is arranged in such a way as to project from said box structure via said access window 8 or so as to be accessible from outside through said access window 8, or so as to be inspected through said access window 8;

viii) an eighth aspect of the invention relates to a box 9, adapted to be used as a junction box for electrical systems of the type having prefabricated conduits, said box 9 extending along a first extension direction X, along a second extension direction Y and along a third extension direction Z, said extension directions being transversal to one another, optionally substantially perpendicular to one another, said box 9 comprising one or more profiled elements 1 ,1 ',2,2', said one or more profiled elements 1 ,1 ',2,2' being arranged in this box 9 in such a way as to extend along said first extension direction X and being preferably made of a metal material, characterised in that said profiled elements 1 ,1 ',2,2' comprise adapting means adapted to enable a variation of the dimension of said box 9 along said first extension direction X;

ix) a ninth aspect of the invention, dependent on the eighth aspect, relates to a box 9, wherein said variation takes place in particular by means of a fitting cut of said profiled elements 1 , 1 ',2,2', carried out transversally optionally substantially perpendicularly to said first extension direction X;

x) a tenth aspect of the invention, dependent on the eighth aspect or the ninth aspect, relates to a box 9 having a modular structure and in which said one or more profiled elements 1 , 1 ',2,2' comprise at least a first profiled element 1 and at least a second profiled element 2, said first profiled element 1 being arranged in said box 9 in such a way as also to extend along said second extension direction Y and said second profiled element 2 being arranged in said box 9 in such a way as also to extend along said third extension direction Z;

xi) an eleventh aspect of the invention, depending on the tenth aspect, relates to a box 9, wherein said at least a first profiled element 1 comprises at least a first edge 1 p which extends along said first extension direction X and said at least a second profiled element 2 comprises at least a first edge 2p which extends along said first extension direction X, the respective geometries of said first edges 1 p,2p being such as to enable said first edges 1 p,2p to be used for connection between said first profiled element 1 and said second profiled element 2, wherein a first between said first edges 1 p is preferably shaped so as to define a seating, and a second between said first edges 2p is shaped so as to define a projection, said seating and said projection being mutually mating shaped so as to enable said projection to house in said seating;

xii) a twelfth aspect of the invention, dependent on the tenth aspect or the eleventh aspect, relates to a box 9, in which said one or more profiled elements 1 , 1 ',2,2 further comprise a third profiled element 1' and a fourth profiled element 2', said third profiled element 1 being arranged in said box 9 in such a way as also to extend along said second extension direction Y and said fourth profiled element 2' being arranged in said box 9 in such a way as also to extend along said third extension direction Z, wherein said third profiled element 1' is similar or identical to said first profiled element 1 , and/or said fourth profiled element 2' is similar or identical to said second profiled element 2;

xiii) a thirteenth aspect of the invention, dependent on the eleventh aspect and the twelfth aspect, relates to a box 9, wherein said at least a first profiled element 1 comprises at least a second edge 1s which extends along said first extension direction X and said at least a second profiled element 2 comprises at least a first edge 2s which extends along said first extension direction X, the respective geometries of said second edges 1s,2s being such as to enable said second edges 1s,2s to be used for connection between said first profiled element 1 and said fourth profiled element 2' and/or between said second profiled element 2 and said third profiled element 1';

xiv) a fourteenth aspect of the invention, dependent on any one of the aspects from the tenth aspect to the thirteenth aspect, relates to a box 9, further comprising at least a first cover 3, said at least a first cover 3 being arranged in said box 9 in such a way as to extend along said second extension direction Y and along said third extension direction Z, said at least a first cover 3 being connected to said first profiled element 1 and to said second profiled element 2 and preferably being made of a plastic material; xv) a fifteenth aspect of the invention, dependent on the fourteenth aspect, relates to a box 9, in which one or more positioning reliefs project from the surface of said at least a first cover 3 facing towards said first profiled element 1 and towards said second profiled element 2, said positioning reliefs defining at least a seating, said seating being adapted to house an end of said first profiled element 1 and/or said second profiled element 2;

xvi) a sixteenth aspect of the invention, dependent on the eleventh aspect and the fifteenth aspect, relates to a box 9, wherein said seating is profiled in such a way that at least a part thereof is configured so as to be able to house an end of at least one from among said first edges 1 p,2p;

xvii) a seventeenth aspect of the invention, dependent on any one of the aspects from the fourteenth aspect to the sixteenth aspect, relates to a box 9, wherein at least a through-hole is fashioned in proximity of at least a corner of said at least a first cover 3, said at least a through-hole being adapted to house at least a fixing organ of said at least a first cover 3 to said first profiled element 1 and said second profiled element 2;

xxiii) a eighteenth aspect of the invention, dependent on any one of the aspects from the fourteenth aspect to the seventeenth aspect, relates to a box 9, wherein said at least a first cover 3 comprises gripping means, preferably associated to the surface of said at least a first cover 3 facing in an opposite direction with respect to said first profiled element 1 and with respect to said second profiled element 2, still more preferably, configured in the form of a cavity fashioned on the surface of said at least a first cover 3 facing in an opposite direction with respect to said first profiled element 1 and with respect to said second profiled element 2;

xix) a nineteenth aspect of the invention, dependent on any one of the aspects from the fourteenth aspect to the eighteenth aspect, relates to a box 9, further comprising a second cover 3', said second cover 3' being arranged in said box 9 in such a way as to extend along said second extension direction Y and along said third extension direction Z, said at least a second cover 3' being connected to said first profiled element 1 and to said second profiled element 2 and preferably being made of a plastic material, wherein said second cover 3' is similar to said first cover 3, said first cover 3 and said second cover 3' being arranged on opposite ends of said box 9;

xxiv) a twentieth aspect of the invention, dependent on any one of the aspects from the fourteenth aspect to the nineteenth aspect, relates to a box 9, comprising sealing means for making the inside of said box 9 substantially inaccessible to water, said sealing means preferably comprising a sheath applied to said one or more profiled elements 1 ,1 ',2,2' and/or to said first cover 3 and/or a frame 7 applied to the interfacing zone between said first profiled element 3 and at least one from said one or more profiled elements 1 , 1 ',2,2' and/or a seal applied to the interfacing zone between said first profiled element 1 and said second profiled element 2;

xxi) a twenty-first aspect of the invention, dependent on any one of the aspects from the eighth aspect to the twentieth aspect, relates to a box 9, wherein at least one from among said profiled elements 1 ,1 ',2, 2' comprises anchoring means 10, 10',20p,20p',20s,20s', said anchoring means 10, 10',20p,20p',20s,20s' being preferably integral to said at least one from among said profiled elements 1 ,1 ',2,2', wherein a cable or at least a support is applied to said anchoring means 10, 10',20p,20p',20s,20s';

xxii) a twenty-second aspect of the invention dependent on the twenty-first aspect, relates to a box 9, in which said anchoring means 10,10',20p,20p',20s,20s' comprises a guide 10, preferably substantially C-shaped, the extension direction of said guide 10 being substantially parallel to said first extension direction X, said guide 10 projecting from the surface of said at least one from among said profiled elements 1 ,1 ',2, 2' facing toward the inside of said box 9 and being suitable for application of at least a cable or a terminal, in particular of at least one earthing cable or terminal;

xii) a twenty-third aspect of the invention, dependent on the twenty-first aspect or the twenty-second aspect, relates to a box 9, wherein said anchoring means 10, 10', 20p,20p',20s,20s' comprises a first pair 20p of adjacent protrusions and a second pair 20s of adjacent protrusions, the extension direction of said protrusions being substantially parallel to said first extension direction X, said protrusions projecting from the surface of said at least one from among said profiled elements 1 , 1', 2,2' facing towards the inside of said box 9, the distance between said first pair 20p of protrusions and a first edge 2p of said at least one from said profiled elements 1 , 1 ',2,2' being smaller than the distance between said first pair 20p of protrusions and a second edge 2s of said at least one from said profiled elements 1 , 1 ',2,2', the distance between said second pair 20s of protrusions and a first edge 2p of said at least one from said profiled elements 1 ,1 ',2,2' being greater than the distance between said second pair 20s of protrusions and a second edge 2s of said at least one from said profiled elements 1 , 1', 2,2', the distance between said first pair 20p of protrusions and said first edge 2p of said at least one from said profiled elements 1 , 1 ',2, 2' being preferably substantially equal to the distance between said second pair 20s of protrusions and said first edge 2p of said at least one from said profiled elements 1 , 1 ',2,2', said protrusions being suitable for application of at least a support, in particular of at least a support of a functional element such as for example a switch, a connector, an accessory, an electrical or electronic device, and the like and

xxiv) a twenty-fourth aspect of the invention, dependent on any one of the aspects from the eighth aspect to the twenty-third aspect, relates to a box 9, wherein an access window 8 is fashioned on at least one from among said profiled elements 1 ,1 ',2,2', suitable for enabling a functional element such as for example a switch, a connector, an accessory, an electrical or electronic device, and the like, to project from said box 9 or to be accessible from outside or to be inspected, a removable door being preferably associated to said access window 8.

In an aspect of the present invention, one or more of said profiled elements is obtained by means of an extrusion process.

In an aspect of the present invention, one or more of said profiled elements has a respective constant section with respect to a plane that is perpendicular to the extension direction X.

In an aspect of the present invention, one or more of said profiled elements is made in a single piece.

In an aspect of the present invention, said first edge (1p) of said at least a first profiled element extends along said first extension direction (X) over the whole extension of the first profiled element.

In an aspect of the present invention, said first edge (2p) of said at least a second profiled element extends along said first extension direction (X) over the whole extension of the first profiled element.

In an aspect of the present invention, said anchoring means (10,10', 20p,20p',20s,20s'), and in particular said guide (10), extends along said first direction (X) over the whole extension of the respective profiled element. In an aspect of the present invention, said anchoring means (10, 10',20p,20p',20s,20s') is configured for receiving or housing at least a cable (for example an earthing cable) or at least a support, so that said cable or said support are applicable or connectable to said anchoring means.

The above-listed aspects of the invention will emerge more clearly from the following detailed description, made by way of non-limiting example, of an embodiment of the present invention, in association with the accompanying figures, wherein:

- Figure 1 represents an axonometric view of a box constituting an embodiment of the present invention;

- Figure 2 is a section view of the box of figure 1 ;

- Figure 2A is a detail of figure 2 and

- Figure 3 is an exploded view of the box of figure 1.

Figures 1 ,2,2A,3 show a box 9, utilisable as a junction box for electrical systems of the type having prefabricated conduits. This box 9, in order to perform its function, internally comprises functional elements, such as for example switches, connectors, accessories and in general electrical or electronic devices. Some from among these functional elements can also partly project from the volume of the box 9, while remaining stably associated: consider for example the connectors which project from the box 9 in order to enable both the mechanical and the electrical connection of the box 9 with a conductor element of an electrical system of the prefabricated conduit type. The functional elements are not represented in figures 1 ,2,2A,3, as of known type in the prior art and in order to enable an improved illustration of the box 9 of the invention.

The box 9 extends along a first extension direction X (the extension along the direction X determining the length of the box 9), along a second extension direction Y (the extension along direction Y determining the height of the box 9) and along a third extension direction Z (the extension along direction Z determining the width of the box 9). The extension directions Χ,Υ,Ζ are transversal to one another, optionally substantially perpendicular to one another. When the box 9 has been installed in an electrical system of the prefabricated conduit type, the second extension direction Y advantageously substantially coincides with the vertical direction.

The box 9 characteristically comprises one or more profiled elements 1 , 1 ',2,2', which extend along the first extension direction X, thus determining the length of the box 9. The profiled elements 1, 1 ',2,2' are advantageously four in number, the first profiled element 1 and the third profiled element 1' being substantially mutually parallel and extending, apart from along the first extension direction X, also along the second extension direction Y (thus determining the height of the box 9), the second profiled element 2 and the fourth profiled element 2' being substantially mutually parallel and extending, apart from along the first extension direction X, also along the third extension direction Y (thus determining the width of the box 9).

The profiled elements 1 ,1 ',2,2' advantageously have a substantially quadrangular shape and the extension of the first profiled element 1 and the third profiled element 1 ' along the second extension direction Y is smaller than the extension of the second profiled element 2 and the fourth profiled element 2' along the third extension direction Z (so that the height of the box 9 is smaller than the width of the box 9). However in the scope of the present invention it is possible to have a different number of profiled elements, as it is also possible for the height of the box 9 to be greater than the width of the box 9, or for the height of the box 9 and the width of the box 9 to be identical to one another.

It is for example possible for the box 9 to comprise a pair of profiled elements with an L-shaped geometry or a single profiled element having a tubular geometry. Likewise, the profiled elements 1 , 1 ',2,2' can be identical to one another in thickness, or can have different thicknesses.

The profiled elements 1 ,1 ',2,2' are preferably made of a metal material, for example aluminium. With the aim of optimising the type of components making up the box 9, the third profiled element 1' can be alike to the first profiled element 1 and the fourth profiled element 2' is alike to the second profiled element 2. From the detailed view of figure 2, which shows the box 9 sectioned according to a substantially perpendicular plane to the first extension direction X, it can be clearly observed how the first profiled element 1 and the third profiled element 1' have a section that is substantially identical to one another and how the second profiled element 2 and the fourth profiled element 2' have a substantially identical section to one another.

As shown in the figures of the drawings, the first profiled element 1 and the third profiled element 1' are preferably opposite one another, and likewise the second profiled element 2 and the fourth profiled element 2' are opposite one another, forming a box structure or a parallelepiped structure. In other words, the first profiled element 1 and the third profiled element 1' are separated from one another, and connected by the second profiled element 2 and the fourth profiled element 2', and likewise the second profiled element 2 and the fourth profiled element 2' are separated from one another, and connected, by the first profiled element 1 and the third profiled element 1'. The profiled elements 1 ,1 ',2,2' characteristically comprise adapting means adapted to enable a variation of the dimension of the box 9 along the first extension direction X (i.e. a variation in the length of the box 9). This variation takes place in particular by means of a cutting to measure of the profiled elements 1 , 1 ',2,2', carried out transversally optionally substantially perpendicularly to the first extension direction X. The first profiled element 1 , the second profiled element 2, the third profiled element 1' and the fourth profiled element 2' are thus cut to measure so that they have a substantially equal extension along the first extension direction X.

The method according to the invention is clearly suitable for enabling an adapting of the length of the box 9 as a function of the installation specifications and the volume that is desired for the box 9. The length of the profiled elements 1 ,1 ',2,2' is consequently determined on the basis of this desired volume, as is the cutting-to-size of the profiled elements 1 ,1 ',2,2' in such a way as all to assume substantially the determined length.

The method for manufacturing the box 9 characteristically includes, following the cutting-to-measure operation, the profiled elements 1 ,1 ',2,2' being then assembled so as to set up a tubular structure. The box 9 therefore has a modular structure which makes set-up thereof easy and versatile. The assembly between the profiled elements 1 ,1 ',2,2' can be manufactured using interconnecting means that is integral to the profiled elements 1 , 1 ',2,2', by means of which a first from among the profiled elements 1 , 1 ',2,2' is constrained to a second from among the profiled elements 1, 1', 2,2', and/or by at least an interconnecting element, which is applied to a first from among the profiled elements 1 ,1 ',2,2' and to a second from among the profiled elements 1 ,1 ',2,2' with the aim of obtaining a reciprocal constraint. The assembly among the profiled elements 1 , 1 ',2,2' can take place before or after the application of further components and at least one from among the profiled elements 1 , 1 ',2,2', for example of at least a cable, in particular at least an earthing cable, and/or at least a functional element such as for example a switch, a connector, an accessory, an electrical or electronic device, and the like.

The box 9 further comprises at least a first cover 3, which extends along the second extension direction Y and along the third extension direction Z. The box 9 advantageously further comprises a first cover 3 and a second cover 3', arranged on opposite ends of said box 9 that are substantially parallel to one another. With the function of delimiting the volume of the box 9 along the first extension direction, the shape of the covers 3,3' is compatible with the shape of the tubular structure fashioned by the assembly of the profiled elements 1 ,1', 2,2'. In the embodiment of the invention of figures 1,2,2A,3, the covers 3,3' have a substantially quadrangular shape. This substantially quadrangular shape can also evolve towards a substantially C-shaped form, which has the advantage of enabling installation of functional elements at least partly projecting from the box 9 (for example connectors for the mechanical and/or electrical connection of the box 9 to an electrical system of the type having prefabricated conduits), without the volume of the box 9 consequently increasing. The covers 3,3' are preferably both made of a plastic material. Still more preferably, the covers 3,3' are monolithic components made of a plastic material, on which elements such as holes, reliefs, grooves and the like are fashioned to enable the covers 3,3' to be gripped. For example, gripping means 3', 30' is made in a single piece with the covers 3,3', in the form of a cavity afforded on the surface of the lid 3,3', facing outwards. These gripping means 3', 30' enables the box 9 to be comfortably gripped and transported.

The second cover 3' has a similar shape to the first cover 3. It is particularly advantageous to manufacture the covers 3,3' in the form of a single component able to function as a first cover 3 or a second cover 3' according to the position of assembly in the box 9. In this way a consistent benefit is obtained both in terms of simplicity of the assembly process and in terms of economy of the box 9, given the opportunity of predisposing a single die for both the covers 3,3'.

The first cover 3 is advantageously part of the adapting means of the profiled elements 1 , 1 ',2,2', as the assembly of the first cover 3 to the profiled elements 1, 1 ',2,2' can take place independently of the length of the profiled elements 1 ,1 ',2,2' following the cutting-to-measure operation. The first cover 3 and the second cover 3' advantageously both participate in the adapting means of the profiled elements 1 ,1 ',2,2', in such a way that either from between the first cover 3 and the second cover 3' can then be applied to the end of the profiled elements 1 ,1 ',2,2' subject to the cutting-to-measure operation.

The method for manufacturing the box 9 according to the present invention therefore presupposes that following the assembly operation of the profiled elements 1 ,1 ',2,2' for setting up a tubular structure, setting up a box structure is proceeded to by application of at least a cover 3,3' to at least an end of the tubular structure, preferably by application of a first cover 3 to a first end of the tubular structure and a second cover 3' to a second end of said tubular structure.

A description follows of the interconnecting means and the interconnecting element conformed as in the embodiment of the invention of figures 1,2,2A,3. The interconnecting means, preferably integral to the profiled elements 1 , 1 ',2,2, has the function of constraining, in a sub-step of the assembly step of the tubular structure, at least a first from among the profiled elements 1, 1 '2,2' (for example the first profiled element 1) to at least a second from among the profiled elements 1 ,1 ',2,2' (for example the second profiled element 2). The interconnecting element is instead applied, in a sub-step of the assembly step of the tubular structure, to at least a first from among the profiled elements 1 ,1 '2,2' (for example the first profiled element 1) to at least a second from among the profiled elements 1 , 1', 2,2' (for example the second profiled element 2) with the aim of mutually constraining them. In the embodiment of the invention illustrated in figures 1 ,2,2A,3 the interconnecting means and at least an interconnecting element are advantageously operative at the same time.

For the sake of simplicity, a description will be made of the interconnecting means that acts between the first profiled element 1 and the second profiled element 2 and between the first profiled element 1 and the fourth profiled element 2', as illustrated in figure 2A. However this description should be considered exhaustive also in relation to the interconnecting means that acts between the third profiled element 1 ' and the fourth profiled element 2' and between the third profiled element 1' and the second profiled element 2, as the interconnecting means acting between the first profiled element 1 and the second profiled element 2 can advantageously be identical to the interconnecting means which acts between the third profiled element 1' and the fourth profiled element 2' and the interconnecting means acting between the first profiled element 1 and the fourth profiled element 2' can be identical to the interconnecting means acting between the third profiled element 1' and the second profiled element 2. As with the interconnecting element, focus will be placed on the first cover 3, the parts of which will be described that interact with the first profiled element 1 and the second profiled element 2, as illustrated in figure 2. However this description of the interconnecting element should be considered exhaustive also in relation to the interactions of the first cover 3 with the third profiled element 1' and with the fourth profiled element 2', as the parts of the first profiled element 3 interacting with the first profiled element 1 can be advantageously identical to the parts that interact with the third profiled element 1' and as the parts of the first cover 3 that interact with the second profiled element 2 can be advantageously identical to the parts interacting with the fourth profiled element 2', and as regards the interactions of the second cover 3' with the profiled elements 1 , 1 ',2,2', the second cover 3' can advantageously be an interconnecting element identical to the first cover 3.

The first profiled element 1 comprises at least a first edge 1 p which substantially extends along said first extension direction X and the second profiled element 2 comprises at least a first edge 2p which substantially extends along said first extension direction X. The respective geometries of the first edges 1 p,2p are such as to enable a form coupling between the first edges 1 p,2p. A first of said first edges 1 p, 2p (for example the first edge 1 p) is preferably shaped so as to define a seating, while a second of said first edges 1 p, 2p (for example the first edge 2p) is shaped so as to define a projection, in a form coupling with the seating, so as enable the projection to house in the seating over the whole length of the first profiled element 1 and the second profiled element 2. For example, the first edge 1 p has a curved end which delimits an open seating with an essentially circular section and a communication opening of this seating that is open towards the outside, while the second edge 2p has a thickened end, also having an essentially circular section, the diameter of the thickened end of the second edge 2p being slightly smaller than the diameter of the open seating of the first edge 1 p, but being appreciably greater than the dimension of the communication opening of the open seating with the outside. Consequently the thickened end can be stably housed in the open seating, given that the interference created with the first edge 1 p peripherally to the communication opening prevents the thickened end from exiting from the open seating through the communication opening. The thickened end is advantageously introduced by jointing in the open seating, forcing the passage thereof through the communication opening; however it can also be inserted by sliding along the first extension direction X. A second edge 1s extends along the first extension direction X to the end of the first profiled element 1 opposite the first edge 1 p. The second edge 1s is suitable for being used for the connection between the fourth profiled element 1 and the fourth profiled element 2', as the fourth profiled element 2' is provided with a corresponding second edge 2s' which extends along the first extension direction X and which has a form coupling with the second edge 1s of the first profiled element 1. A first of said second edges 1s,2s' (for example the second edge 1s) is preferably shaped so as to define an open seating and an abutment surface, while a second of the second edges 1s,2s' (for example the second edge 2s') is shaped so as to define an abutment and a ribbing, the abutment being adapted to contact the abutment surface when the ribbing is at least partly entered in the open seating, the ribbing and the open seating thus functioning as references for the correct reciprocal positioning between the first profiled element 1 and the fourth profiled element 2'.

It is important to stress how the first edges 1 p,2p and the second edges 1s,2s' in particular, and the interconnecting means in general, contribute to the adapting means. In fact, once the cutting-to-measure operation of the profiled elements 1 ,1 ',2,2' has been concluded, the interconnecting means, whatever the length of the profiled elements 1 ,1 ',2,2', is in any case able to fully fulfill the function thereof.

One or more positioning reliefs project from the surface of the first cover 3 facing towards the first profiled element

1 and the second profiled element 2, the positioning reliefs defining at least a seating able to house an end of the first profiled element 1 and/or of the second profiled element 2. In particular, the positioning reliefs project substantially along the first extension direction X and comprise at least an external relief 31 and at least an internal relief 32, the distance of which is substantially identical to the thickness of the first profiled element 1 and/or the second profiled element 2. Therefore the ends of the first profiled element 1 and/or of the second profiled element

2 can be inserted in the gap between the external relief 31 and the internal relief 32, which thus functions as a seating for the positioning thereof. The coupling between the first cover 3 and the first profiled element 1 and/or the second profiled element 2 can be stable, should it occur substantially by interference, or with a predetermined amount of play, in which case the application of at least a fixing organ to the first cover 3 and/or to the first profiled element 1 and/or to the second profiled element 2 is required so as to stabilise the fixing between the first cover 3 and the first profiled element 1 and/or the second profiled element 2. At least a part of the seating is advantageously profiled in such a way as to be able to house an end of at least one from among said first edges 1 p,2p. In fact, to enable a form coupling between the positioning reliefs and the first profiled element 1 and/or the second profiled element 2 in the zones occupied by the positioning means (therefore for example at the first edges 1 p,2p and/or at the second edges 1s,2s), the internal relief 32 distances from the external relief 31 , so that the seating, starting from a width that is comparable to the thickness of the first profiled element 1 and/or the second profiled element 2, broadens up to taking on (in particular at the at least one of the corners of the cover 3) the conformation of an extended portion able to house the positioning means. A stable housing of the positioning means in this extended portion is also facilitated by the presence of ribbings and/or teeth which have the further function of making the positioning reliefs structurally more solid, and consequently able to resist any stresses generated at the moment of the coupling between the first cover 3 and the first profiled element 1 and/or the second profiled element 2.

At least a through-hole is advantageously afforded in proximity of at least a corner of the first cover 3, preferably in proximity of each of the four corners of the first cover 3. The through-hole, or each through-hole, extends substantially along the first extension direction. The through-hole, or each through-hole is able to house at least a fixing organ (for example one from among the screws 40a,40b,40c,40d) of the first cover 3 to the profiled elements 1.1 ',2,2'. In particular, the heads of the screws 40a, 40b, 40c, 40d occupy a part of the seating defined by the positioning reliefs and, by gripping against the ends of the first edges 1 p,2p and/or of the second edges 1 s,2s, force them against the positioning reliefs, thus ensuring a sturdy assembly of the box 9.

It is important to stress that the first cover 3, optionally together with the screws 40a,40b,40c,40d, in particular, and the interconnecting element in general, contribute to the adapting means. Once the cutting-to-measure operating of the profiled elements 1, 1 ',2,2', has been carried out, the interconnecting element, whatever the length of the profiled elements 1 ,1 ',2,2', is in any case able to fulfill the function thereof.

As it is destined for use in electrical systems of the prefabricated conduit type, and being typically functional elements, such as for example switches, connectors, accessories and in general electrical or electronic devices, contained therein, it is very advantageous to ensure that the inside of the box 9 is protected from water infiltration which for example percolating from above might compromise the safety of the box 9 or damage it. Therefore sealing means is applied to the profiled elements 1 ,1 ',2,2' at the interconnecting means and/or the interconnecting element, with the function of making the inside of the box 9 substantially inaccessible to water. For example, a sheath can be applied to cover the interfacing zone, between the first cover 3 and at least one of the profiled elements 1 ,1 ',2,2'. Alternatively or additionally, a co-moulded seal can be included at least at an edge of the profiled elements 1 ,1 ',2, 2' to protect the interfacing zones between the profiled elements 1 ,1', 2,2'.

Further, for better protection from water of the interfacing zone between one of the covers 3,3' and one of the profiled elements 1 ,1 ',2,2', this zone can be covered by a frame 7 which seals the gap that might be generated between one of the covers 3,3' and one of the profiled elements 1 ,1 ', 2,2'. The frame 7, preferably manufactured in the form of a monolithic element made of a plastic material, is advantageously conformed in a C-shape, so as also to protect the corners. The fixing of the frame 7 to the box 9 takes place, for example, by using a pair of screws 70a,70b which insert in dedicated holes fashioned in one of the profiled elements 1, 1 ',2,2'.

At least one from among said profiled elements 1, 1', 2,2' comprises anchoring means 10,10',20p,20p',20s,20s' and at least a cable or at least a support is applied to the anchoring means 10,10',20p,20p',20s,20s'. The anchoring means 10,10',20p,20p',20s,20s' is preferably integral with at least one of the profiled elements 1 ,1', 2,2'. The anchoring means 10, 10',20p,20p',20s,20s' can comprise a guide 10, substantially C-shaped, the extension direction of the guide 10 being substantially parallel to said first extension direction X. The guide 10 preferably constitutes a single body with the at least one of the profiled elements 1 , 1', 2,2'. This guide 10 is fashioned on the surface of at least one from among the profiled elements 1, 1',2,2' facing towards the inside of the box 9 and defines a groove with an approximately quadrangular section which extends substantially parallel to the first extension direction X. The guide 10 is suitable for application of at least a cable or a terminal, in particular of at least one earthing cable. In this way the at least one from among the profiled elements 1 , 1 ',2,2' to which the guide 10 is associated, if made of a metal material, is earthed, so as to enable a maximal level of safety of the box 9, as well as complete observance of the existing standards. As the profiled elements 1.1',2,2' are in contact with one another (for example via the interconnecting means), by applying an earthing cable to the guide 10 the whole tubular structure of the box 9 is earthed.

The anchoring means 10,10',20p,20p',20s,20s' can further comprise a first pair 20p of adjacent protrusions and a second pair 20s of adjacent protrusions, the extension direction of the protrusions being substantially parallel to said first extension direction X. The protrusions preferably constitute a single body with the at least one of the profiled elements 1 , 1 ',2,2'. The protrusions project from the surface of at least one from among the profiled elements 1 ,1 ',2,2' facing toward the inside of the box 9. The pairs 20p, 20s of protrusions define a pair of channels with a mushroom-shaped section. The channels are substantially parallel to one another and substantially parallel to the first extension direction X. The distance between the first pair 20p of protrusions and a first edge 2p of the at least one from the profiled elements 1 ,1 ',2,2' is smaller than the distance between first pair 20p of protrusions and a second edge 2s of the at least one from the profiled elements 1 , 1 ',2,2', the distance between the second pair 20s of protrusions and the first edge 2p of the at least one from the profiled elements 1 , 1 ',2,2' is greater than the distance between the second pair 20s of protrusions and a second edge 2s of the at least one from the profiled elements 1 , 1 ',2,2'. The distance between the first pair 20p of protrusions and the first edge 2p of the at least one from the profiled elements 1 ,1 ',2,2' is advantageously substantially equal to the distance between the second pair 20s of protrusions and the first edge 2p of the at least one from the profiled elements 1 , 1 ',2,2'. The protrusions are suitable for fixing at least a support, in particular of at least a support of a functional element such as for example a switch, a connector, an accessory, an electrical or electronic device, and the like. The configuration of the protrusions according to which they are symmetrically arranged with respect to the median plane of the at least one from among the profiled elements 1 ,1 ',2,2' to which the protrusions are associated enables at least one from among the profiled elements 1 ,1 ',2,2' to support the functional element in a balanced and stable way. For example the functional element can be connected to a first arm and to a second arm, the first arm terminating in the first channel and the second arm terminating in the second channel. The functional element, when considerable extended along the first extension direction X, can be further connected to a third arm and to a fourth arm, with the fourth arm terminating in the first channel and the third arm terminating in the second channel.

In the illustrated example of the present invention, by way of non-limiting example, in figures 1 ,2,2A,3, the anchoring means 10,10',20p,20p',20s,20s' is distributed between the first profiled element 1 and the second profiled element 2: in particular, the guide 10 for the application of the earthing cable is arranged on the first profiled element 1 , while the pairs 20p,20s of protrusions for fixing the functional element are arranged on the second profiled element 2. It would however be possible for all the anchoring means 10, 10',20p,20p',20s,20s' to be associated only to the first profiled element 1 and, more in particular, the pairs 20p,20s of protrusions for the fixing of the functional element to be arranged on the first profiled element 1 , by the side of the guide 10 for application of the earthing cable. It is important to stress how the guide 10 and the pairs 20p, 20s of protrusions, in particular, and how the anchoring means 10,10',20p,20p',20s,20s' in general, contribute to the adapting means. In fact, once the cutting-to-measure operation of the profiled elements 1 ,1', 2,2' has been concluded, the anchoring means 10,10',20p,20p',20s,20s', whatever the length of the profiled elements 1, 1 ',2,2', is in any case able to entirely fulfill the function thereof of enabling the application of the earthing cable to the box 9 and/or the fixing of the functional element to the box 9. An access window 8 is fashioned on at least one from among said profiled elements 1 , 1', 2,2', which enables a functional element associated to the box, such as for example a switch, a connector, an accessory, an electrical or electronic device, and the like, to project from said box 9 or to be accessible from outside or to be inspected from outside. In the illustrated example of the present invention, by way of non-limiting example, in figures 1 ,2,2A,3, the access window is fashioned on the second profiled element 2 which comprises the pairs 20p,20s of protrusions for fixing the functional element. It is however possible for the access window 8 to be fashioned on the first profiled element 1 together with the guide 10 for application of the earthing cable or for the access window 8 to be fashioned in a profiled member to which anchoring means 10,10', 20p,20p',20s,20s' is not associated.

A removable door is advantageously applied to the access window 8, with the aim of maintaining the functional components protected inside the box 9 when the box 9 is not in use. The removable door is associated to a frame which, via a dedicated hole at the limit of the access window 8 is fixed to the at least one from among the profiled elements 1 , 1', 2,2' on which the access window 8 is fashioned. For a greater security of the removable door, the door is preferably fitted with a lock, so that a key is required for opening the removable door.

From the above description, and from figures 1,2,2A,3 accompanying the present invention, it is clearly understood how the method of the present invention makes it possible to manufacture a junction box for electrical systems of the prefabricated conduit type, the length of which is adaptable to the place of installation and during the setting up of the plant and how the aims of the present invention are completely attained. In fact the box of the present invention is particularly simple both to manufacture and to install, is particularly sturdy, reliable and safe once installed and enables reducing the costs of installing electrical systems of the prefabricated conduit type.

The present invention enables carrying out the assembly of the box and earthing it regardless of the dimensions, in length or along direction X, of the profiled elements of which it is composed.

Further it is clear that many modifications are possible to the components of the method and the box according to the present invention, for example in relation to the dimensions, geometries and materials, while fully remaining within the scope of protection of the following claims, which also constitute an integrating part of the present invention.

Claims

1. A box (9), adapted to be used as a junction box for electrical systems of a type having prefabricated conduits, said box (9) extending along a first extension direction (X), along a second extension direction (Y) and along a third extension direction (Z), said extension directions being transversal to one another, optionally substantially perpendicular to one another, said box (9) comprising one or more profiled elements (1 ,1 ',2,2'), said one or more profiled elements (1 , 1 ',2,2') being arranged in such box (9) in such a way as to extend along said first extension direction (X) and being preferably made of a metal material, characterised in that said profiled elements (1 ,1 ',2,2') comprise adjustment means adapted to enable a variation of the dimension of said box (9) along said first extension direction (X).

2. The box (9) according to claim 1 , wherein said box (9) has a modular structure and said one or more profiled elements (1,1', 2,2') comprise at least a first profiled element (1) and at least a second profiled element (2), said first profiled element (1) being arranged in said box (9) in such a way as also to extend along said second extension direction (Y) and said second profiled element (2) being arranged in said box (9) in such a way as also to extend along said third extension direction (Z).

3. The box (9) according to claim 2, wherein said at least a first profiled element (1) comprises at least a first edge (1 p) which extends along said first extension direction (X) and said at least a second profiled element (2) comprises at least a first edge (2p) which extends along said first extension direction (X), the respective geometries of said first edges (1 p,2p) being such as to enable said first edges (1 p,2p) to be used for connection between said first profiled element (1) and said second profiled element (2), wherein a first between said first edges (1 p) is preferably shaped so as to define a seating, and a second between said first edges (2p) is shaped so as to define a projection, said seating and said projection being mutually mating shaped so as to enable said projection to house in said seating.

4. The box (9) according to claim 2 or 3, further comprising at least a first cover (3), said at least a cover (3) being arranged in said box (9) in such a way as to extend along said second extension direction (Y) and along said third extension direction (Z), said at least a first cover (3) being connected to said first profiled element (1) and to said second profiled element (2) and preferably being made of a plastic material.

5. The box (9) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one from among said profiled elements (1 , 1', 2,2') comprises anchoring means (10, 10',20p,20p',20s,20s'), said anchoring means (10, 10', 20p,20p',20s,20s') being preferably integral to said at least one from among said profiled elements (1 , 1', 2,2') and being extended along said first extension direction (X), wherein said anchoring means (10, 10',20p,20p',20s,20s') are configured for receiving at least a cable or at least a support.

6. The box (9) according to claim 5, wherein said anchoring means (10,10',20p,20p',20s,20s') comprise a guide (10), preferably substantially C-shaped, the extension direction of said guide (10) being substantially parallel to said first extension direction (X), said guide (10) projecting from the surface of said at least one from among said profiled elements (1 ,1 ',2,2') facing toward the inside of said box (9) and being suitable for application of at least a cable or a terminal, in particular of at least one earthing cable.

7. The box (9) according to claim 5 or 6, wherein said anchoring means (10, 10',20p,20p',20s,20s') comprise a first pair (20p) of adjacent protrusions and a second pair (20s) of adjacent protrusions, the extension direction of said protrusions being substantially parallel to said first extension direction (X), said protrusions projecting from the surface of said at least one from among said profiled elements (1 , 1 ',2,2') facing toward the inside of said box (9), the distance between said first pair (20p) of protrusions and a first edge (2p) of said at least one from said profiled elements (1 ,1 ',2,2') being smaller than the distance between said first pair (20p) of protrusions and a second edge (2s) of said at least one from said profiled elements (1 , 1', 2,2'), the distance between said second pair (20s) of protrusions and a first edge (2p) of said at least one from said profiled elements (1 , 1 ',2,2') being greater than the distance between said second pair (20s) of protrusions and a second edge (2s) of said at least one from said profiled elements (1 , 1 ',2,2'), the distance between said first pair (20p) of protrusions and said first edge (2p) of said at least one from said profiled elements (1 ,1 ',2,2') being preferably substantially equal to the distance between said second pair (20s) of protrusions and said first edge (2p) of said at least one from said profiled elements (1 , 1 ',2,2'), said protrusions being suitable for application of at least a support, in particular of at least a support of a functional element such as for example a switch, a connector, an accessory, an electrical or electronic device, and the like.

8. A method for manufacturing a box (9), in particular a junction box for electrical systems of a type having prefabricated conduits, starting from one or more profiled elements (1 ,1 ',2,2'), said profiled elements (1 ,1 ',2,2') being preferably made of a metal material and being preferably four in number, comprising steps of:

a) transversally cutting to measure said profiled elements (1 , 1 ',2,2'), optionally substantially perpendicularly, to the respective extension direction (X) thereof, and

b) setting up a tubular structure by assembling said profiled elements (1 , 1', 2,2').

9. The method according to claim 8, said profiled elements (1 , 1', 2,2') comprising reciprocal interconnecting means, said interconnecting means being preferably integral to said profiled elements (1 ,1 ',2,2'), wherein said step b) comprises a sub-step of constraining at least a first (1) of said profiled elements (1 , 1 ',2,2') to at least a second (2) of said profiled elements (1 ,1 ',2,2') by means of said interconnecting means.

10. The method according to claim 8 or 9, wherein said step b) comprises a sub-step of applying at least an interconnecting element to at least a first (1) of said profiled elements (1 ,1 ',2,2') and to at least a second (2) of said profiled elements (1 , 1', 2,2'), so as to constrain said at least a first (1) of said profiled elements (1, 1', 2,2') to said at least a second (2) of said profiled elements (1 , 1 ',2,2'), and/or wherein the method comprises a step of defining anchoring means (10, 10', 20p,20p',20s,20s') in at least one from among said profiled elements (1 ,1', 2,2'), said anchoring means (10, 10',20p,20p',20s,20s') being preferably integral to said at least one from among said profiled elements (1 ,1', 2,2') and being extended along said first extension direction (X), and wherein a cable, preferably an earthing cable or at least a support is applied to said anchoring means (10, 10',20p,20p',20s,20s').