Claims:
1. A header assembly (1) comprising: a top plate (13) secured to frame channels (11, 14), wherein theheader assembly (1) is operatively coupled with an elongated structural member (2) to minimize an issue of dependency of order and type of panel in affixing brand names, installation and connection of a switchboard top frame and providing a physical support for top frame assembly.

2. The header assembly of claim 1, wherein said elongated structural member (2) bears four sub-connections (3, 4, 5, 16).

3. The header assembly of claim 1, wherein said elongated structural member (2) comprises a slit (16) that is highlighted using a plastic sheet (5) affixed to the structural member (2).

4. The header assembly of claim 1, wherein said elongated structural member (2) is affixed to the frame channel (11) through any or a combination of a spring washer (8), a plain washer (9), and a screw (10).

5. The header assembly of claim 1, wherein said header assembly is a signature header assembly on which a brand logo (3) and/or a product name (4) is configured on the elongated structural member (2).

6. The header assembly of claim 1, wherein said top plate (13) is secured to said frame channel (11) using a support plate (6).

7. The header assembly of claim 1, wherein one or more eyebolts (12) are configured on vertical structure through the top plate (13).

8. The header assembly of claim 1, wherein said header assembly is operatively coupled with one or more additional header assemblies, wherein an end cover (22) is configured at one end of rightmost or leftmost header assembly to ensure dust/water free header assembly.

9. The header assembly of claim 1, wherein said header assembly is operatively coupled with any or a combination of a busbar cover (20), and a dropper cover (19).

10. The header assembly of claim 1, wherein said header assembly is configured on a power control panel.
, Description:
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to a header assembly for a switchboard panel. In particular, the present invention relates to a header assembly that carries the brand logo and product name and is mounted on a switchboard panel with standardized functionality and aesthetics.

BACKGROUND
[0002] Background description includes information that may be useful in understanding the present invention. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed invention, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.
[0003] A switchboard panel is an enclosure in which compartments like horizontal bus bar chamber, feeder compartments, vacant compartments and lower chambers are bifurcated within the switchboard frame, whilst accommodating electrical control gears, power gears and other apparatus.
[0004] The system includes main supply bus bars to which dropper connections of the protection devices is connected and output terminals of the feeder are connected to outgoing conductors or to other load terminal connections.
[0005] United States patent application 2013/0165035 describes the frame structure adapted to be at least partially covered by one or more panels to define an interior space and includes at least one horizontal member. Here the header assembly is installed to prevent the circulation of air above enclosure.
[0006] United States patent 4872297 describes an apparatus for adjustably attaching roof panels to the side walls of an enclosure and for securing the pitch of the roof panel with respect to the side walls after it has been assembled.
[0007] United States patent 4366528 describes the metallic frame work of two or more structural columns that are affixed to channel members, that are coupled to base frame assembly. Every column, members & channel form a free-standing assembly and affixed to the top frame assembly. Corner posts are secured with corner pieces. Bus bar is supported within frames & corner posts.
[0008] The prior art described above do not describe or talk about the aesthetic aspect of the header or the uniformity of design that would make manufacturing and subsequent assembly of the panel easier. There is, therefore a requirement in the art for a design that is both functionally and aesthetically appealing whilst making manufacturing and assembling simpler.
[0009] All publications herein are incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication or patent application were specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference. Where a definition or use of a term in an incorporated reference is inconsistent or contrary to the definition of that term provided herein, the definition of that term provided herein applies and the definition of that term in the reference does not apply.
[0010] In some embodiments, the numbers expressing quantities of ingredients, properties such as concentration, reaction conditions, and so forth, used to describe and claim certain embodiments of the invention are to be understood as being modified in some instances by the term “about”. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the numerical parameters set forth in the written description and attached claims are approximations that can vary depending upon the desired properties sought to be obtained by a particular embodiment. In some embodiments, the numerical parameters should be construed in light of the number of reported significant digits and by applying ordinary rounding techniques. Notwithstanding that the numerical ranges and parameters setting forth the broad scope of some embodiments of the invention are approximations, the numerical values set forth in the specific examples are reported as precisely as practicable. The numerical values presented in some embodiments of the invention may contain certain errors necessarily resulting from the standard deviation found in their respective testing measurements.
[0011] As used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, the meaning of “a,” “an,” and “the” includes plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used in the description herein, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
[0012] The recitation of ranges of values herein is merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range. Unless otherwise indicated herein, each individual value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g. “such as”) provided with respect to certain embodiments herein is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element essential to the practice of the invention.
[0013] Groupings of alternative elements or embodiments of the invention disclosed herein are not to be construed as limitations. Each group member can be referred to and claimed individually or in any combination with other members of the group or other elements found herein. One or more members of a group can be included in, or deleted from, a group for reasons of convenience and/or patentability. When any such inclusion or deletion occurs, the specification is herein deemed to contain the group as modified thus fulfilling the written description of all groups used in the appended claims.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
[0014] A general object of the present invention is to provide a header assembly that is mounted on top of a switchboard panel.
[0015] Another object of the present invention is to provide a header assembly that carries the brand logo and product name along with the associated graphics, irrespective of the type of panel or general arrangement.
[0016] Another object of the present invention is to provide a header assembly to a switchboard panel that can protect it from environmental elements such as dust and moisture.
[0017] Another object of the present invention is to provide a header assembly that is easy to repair or replace.
[0018] Another object of the present invention is to provide a header assembly thatis independent of eyebolts or lifting angles.
[0019] Another object of the present invention is to provide a uniform scheme for representing and conveying information about the switchboard panel and its components.
[0020] Another object of the present invention is to provide a header assembly and a panel assembly that is simple to manufacture and easy to assemble.

SUMMARY
[0021] The present disclosure relates generally to a header assembly for a switchboard panel. In particular, the present invention relates to a header assembly that carries the brand logo and product name and is mounted on a switchboard panel with standardized functionality and aesthetics.
[0022] The present invention discloses a header assembly for a switchboard panel, which can be assembled or disassembled with ease. Further, the panel is standardized from both a functional and an aesthetic viewpoint, thus bringing about the advantage of easier manufacturing and assembling of the panels, irrespective of the type of order or feeder.
[0023] In an aspect of the present invention, a header assembly is mounted on top of apanel and comprises an elongated member, made of steel or other similar material, that holds the brand logo and product name in a manner that is predesigned. This elongated member, along with the brand logo and product name is then affixed to the top frame assembly using support plates and fasteners.
[0024] In another aspect of the present invention, the header assembly does not add height to the panel. Further it also conceals and variations in location or placement of the lifting angles or eyebolts.
[0025] In another aspect of the present invention, the panel design is standardized. The active components such as bus-bars, switchgear etc., are conveniently covered by various cover and hinged doors. A plurality of labels is placed in standardized positions to include information like cautions, component rating, accident information etc. The designsand the graphics of the labels follow ANSI guidelines. The labels are also standardized to be aesthetically appealing.
[0026] In contrast to prior art considered, the present invention discloses a panel with a header assembly, that contains the brand logo and product name and one that is also easily assembled or disassembled. Further the invention also discloses a panel with standardized functionality and aesthetics which brings with it the advantage of simpler manufacturing and assembly.
[0027] Various objects, features, aspects and advantages of the inventive subject matter will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments, along with the accompanying drawing figures in which like numerals represent like components.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0028] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the present disclosure and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present disclosure. The diagrams are for illustration only, which thus is not a limitation of the present disclosure, and wherein:
[0029] FIG. 1 illustrates a view of a complete header assembly.
[0030] FIG. 2 illustrates an exploded view of the header assembly.
[0031] FIG. 3 illustrates header assembly and front panel views for an AA type distribution panel.
[0032] FIG. 4A illustrates perspective view of an AA type distribution panel with a header assembly.
[0033] FIG. 4B illustrates perspective view of an SUP type frame with a header assembly.
[0034] FIG. 5A illustrates front view of an AA type distribution panel with a header assembly.
[0035] FIG. 5B illustrates front view of an SUP type frame with a header assembly.
[0036] FIG. 6 illustrates an SUP type frame with a hood assembly.
[0037] FIG. 7 illustrates an SUP type frame with two lifting angles.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0038] The following is a detailed description of embodiments of the disclosure depicted in the accompanying drawings. The embodiments are in such detail as to clearly communicate the disclosure. However, the amount of detail offered is not intended to limit the anticipated variations of embodiments; on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.
[0039] If the specification states a component or feature “may”, “can”, “could”, or “might” be included or have a characteristic, that particular component or feature is not required to be included or have the characteristic.
[0040] As used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, the meaning of “a,” “an,” and “the” includes plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used in the description herein, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
[0041] Exemplary embodiments will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which exemplary embodiments are shown. These exemplary embodiments are provided only for illustrative purposes and so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those of ordinary skill in the art. The invention disclosed may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Various modifications will be readily apparent to persons skilled in the art. The general principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments and applications without departing from the scope of the invention. Moreover, all statements herein reciting embodiments of the invention, as well as specific examples thereof, are intended to encompass both structural and functional equivalents thereof. Additionally, it is intended that such equivalents include both currently known equivalents as well as equivalents developed in the future (i.e., any elements developed that perform the same function, regardless of structure). Also, the terminology and phraseology used is for the purpose of describing exemplary embodiments and should not be considered limiting. Thus, the present invention is to be accorded the widest scope encompassing numerous alternatives, modifications and equivalents consistent with the principles and features disclosed. For purpose of clarity, details relating to technical material that is known in the technical fields related to the invention have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure the present invention.
[0042] Each of the appended claims defines a separate invention, which for infringement purposes is recognized as including equivalents to the various elements or limitations specified in the claims. Depending on the context, all references below to the "invention" may in some cases refer to certain specific embodiments only. In other cases, it will be recognized that references to the "invention" will refer to subject matter recited in one or more, but not necessarily all, of the claims.
[0043] All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”) provided with respect to certain embodiments herein is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element essential to the practice of the invention.
[0044] Various terms as used herein are shown below. To the extent a term used in a claim is not defined below, it should be given the broadest definition persons in the pertinent art have given that term as reflected in printed publications and issued patents at the time of filing.
[0045] The present disclosure relates generally to a switchboard panel with a header assembly. In particular, the present invention relates to a header assembly that carries the brand logo and product, and a switchboard panel with standardized functionality and aesthetics.
[0046] The present invention discloses a header assembly for a switchboard panel, which can be assembled or disassembled with ease. Further, the panel is standardized from both a functional and an aesthetic viewpoint, thus bringing about the advantage of easier manufacturing and assembling of the panels, irrespective of the type of order or feeder.
[0047] In an aspect of the present invention, a header assembly is mounted on top of apanel and comprises an elongated member, made of steel or other similar material, that holds the brand logo and product name in a manner that is predesigned. This elongated member, along with the brand logo and product name is then affixed to the top frame assembly using support plates and fasteners.
[0048] In another aspect of the present invention, the header assembly does not add height to the panel. Further it also conceals and variations in location or placement of the lifting angles or eyebolts.
[0049] In another aspect of the present invention, the multiple panel type layout is even. The active components such as bus-bars, switchgear etc., are conveniently covered by various covers and hinged doors. A plurality of labels is placed in standardized positions to include information like cautions, component rating, accident information etc. the design of the labels follows ANSI guidelines and the graphics used are standardized to be aesthetically appealing.
[0050] FIG. 1 illustrates a view of the completed header assembly (1). The header assembly (1) consists of a brand logo (3) and product name (4) in a satin finish coat. It also consists of an angled slit (16) and a multi-layered phenolic plastic sheet (5) placed behind the product name (4). Together, these components constitute the brand image.
[0051] In an embodiment of the present invention, the multi-layered phenolic plastic sheet is coloured to be a shade designated “Pantone 109”.
[0052] In another embodiment of the present invention, the header assembly is mounted on a AA type frame with front frame channel (11) and side frame channel (14).
[0053] FIG. 2 illustrates an exploded view of the header assembly, as was seen in FIG. 1. In an aspect of the present invention, the elongated member (2) containing the brand logo (3) and the product name (4) is made of sheet steel and has connections where it can be mounted to the frame channel (11, 14).
[0054] In an embodiment of the present invention, the brand logo (3) is located on the left side of the elongated member (2) and the slit (16) and product name (4) are located on the right side. A multi-layered phenolic plastic sheet (5) is affixed behind the product name (4), on the rear side of the elongated member (2). The phenolic sheet (5) is coloured to the shade designated “Pantone 109”.
[0055] In an aspect of the present invention, the header assembly (1) is assembled using minimal fasteners. The brand logo (3) is affixed to the elongated member (2) by means of studs. The product name (4) and multi-layered phenolic sheet (5) is fastened at the front and rear, respectively, of the elongated member (2) using spring washers (8), plain washers (9) and screws (10).
[0056] In an embodiment of the present invention, the header assembly (1) is fastened to the top frame at four points on the front frame channel (11), on support plates (6) and using fasteners (8, 9, 10), as mentioned earlier.
[0057] In an aspect of the present invention, the top frame consists of a pair each of front frame channels (11) and side frame channels (14). The top frame is reinforced using ribs(15), spaced between the side frame channels (14) and parallel to it, as referenced in FIG. 2.
[0058] In another embodiment of the present invention, a top plate (13) is mounted over the top of the AA type frame to ensure protection from the environment, as well as to provide a support for the mounting of eyebolts (12) or lifting angles (25).
[0059] FIG. 3 is referred, wherein the header assembly (1) is now mounted on multiple, coupled type AA frames with a multiple top plate (21) arrangement, also comprising a left and right end cover (22) on either side of the framework, for protection against the environmental elements like dust and moisture. The top plates (21) also serve as base for mounting eyebolts (12) or lifting angles (25).
[0060] In another embodiment of the present invention, to prevent unauthorised access to components in the enclosure or panel such as bus-bars, switchgears and other components, top covers are provided for the compartments of the enclosure. Such covers include dropper covers (19), bus-bar covers (20) and hinged doors.
[0061] In another embodiment of the present invention, the top covers (19, 20) will carry phenolic plastic sheet labels like warning/caution labels (17) and panel labels (18). These labels will be designed as per American National Standards Institute (ANSI) guidelines to convey information about location, safety and accident prevention. Thewarning/caution label (17) is coloured to a shade designated “Pantone 109” and the panellabel (18) is coloured to a shade designated “Pantone Black C”. Similarly, a feeder label (23) is present indicating the feeder/switchgear ratings and the label (23) is coloured to the shade of “Pantone Black C”.
[0062] In an aspect of the present invention, the locations of the above labels (17, 18, 23) remain standard for all enclosures, irrespective of the type of order or feeder, thus making manufacture and assembly easier and standardised.
[0063] In another aspect of the present invention, the feeder label (23) is placed at the top corner, opposite the hinge of the door. Provided also are Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) plastic handles (24) for operating doors, which are placed at the bottom corner of the doors, opposite to hinge.
[0064] FIG. 4A is a perspective view of a AA type distribution panel with header assembly (1), which comprises a fixed bracket that is held above the top frame assembly. As was seen from FIG. 3, droppers, bus-bars, feeders and other components are covered by dropper covers (19), bus bar covers (20) and hinged doors. Feeder labels (23), warning/caution and panel labels (17, 18) are present as per standards stated above. Eyebolts (12) are fastened on the top plates (21) in an equally spaced manner, for transport, lifting and other logistic purposes.
[0065] FIG. 4B is referred, wherein a perspective view of a single unit power-control (SUP) type of panel is illustrated, with the header assembly (1) comprising a fixed bracket that is held above the top frame assembly. The panel comprises the plurality of covers (19, 20), hinged doors and labels (17, 18, 23), as discussed above. A hood assembly (26) is mounted atop the single top plate (13) for internal arc compliance measures.
[0066] FIG. 5A illustrates front view of an AA type of distribution panel with header assembly (1).
[0067] FIG. 5B illustrates front view of a SUP type of panel with header assembly (1).
[0068] In an aspect of the present invention, FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B illustrate the uniformity in appearance and design of different types of distribution panels, bringing in the advantage of easier and more streamlined manufacturing and assembly and a standardisation from an aesthetic viewpoint.
[0069] FIG. 6 illustrates a SUP type of panel with a hood assembly (26) mounted atop a single top plate (13) for internal arc compliance measures.
[0070] FIG. 7 illustrates a SUP type of panel with two numbers of lifting angles (25) mounted atop the single top plate (13) for transport, lifting and other logistic purposes.
[0071] The present invention discloses a panel with a header assembly that brings in standardisation of aesthetic and functional components to ease manufacturing and assembly processes, irrespective of the order or feeder type of the panel.
[0072] Without departing from the spirit and concept of the present invention, any variations and modifications to the embodiments should be within the apprehension of those with ordinary knowledge and skills in the art, and therefore fall in the scope of the present invention which is defined by the accompanied claims. Though the present invention has been described on the basis of some preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art should appreciate that those embodiments should by no means limit the scope of the present invention. Without departing from the spirit and concept of the present invention, any variations and modifications to the embodiments should be within the apprehension of those with ordinary knowledge and skills in the art, and therefore fall in the scope of the present invention which is defined by the accompanied claims.
[0073] The present invention provides a header assembly for a switchboard panel that is susceptible of modifications or variations all within the scope of the inventive concept as defined by the appended claims; any details may be replaced with technically equivalent elements. One or more of the elements above described may be differently shaped and/or positioned, can be differently coupled or positioned, etcetera. The materials, so long as they are compatible with the specific use, as well as the individual components, may be any according to the requirements and the state of the art.
[0074] Only certain features of the invention have been specifically illustrated and described herein, and many modifications and changes will occur to those skilled in the art. The invention is not restricted by the preferred embodiment described herein in the description. It is to be noted that the invention is explained by way of exemplary embodiment and is neither exhaustive nor limiting. Certain aspects of the invention that not been elaborated herein in the description are well understood by one skilled in the art. Also, the terms relating to singular form used herein in the description also include its plurality and vice versa, wherever applicable. Any relevant modification or variation, which is not described specifically in the specification are in fact to be construed of being well within the scope of the invention. The appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and changes which fall within the spirit of the invention.
[0075] The foregoing description of the specific embodiments will so fully reveal the general nature of the invention that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily modify and/or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments without departing from the generic concept, and, therefore, such adaptations and modifications should and are intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation.
[0076] It should be apparent to those skilled in the art that many more modifications besides those already described are possible without departing from the inventive concepts herein. Moreover, in interpreting both the specification and the claims, all terms should be interpreted in the broadest possible manner consistent with the context. In particular, the terms “comprises” and “comprising” should be interpreted as referring to elements, components, or steps in a non-exclusive manner, indicating that the referenced elements, components, or steps may be present, or utilized, or combined with other elements, components, or steps that are not expressly referenced. Where the specification claims refer to at least one of something selected from the group consisting of A, B, C ….and N, the text should be interpreted as requiring only one element from the group, not A plus N, or B plus N, etc. The foregoing description of the specific embodiments will so fully reveal the general nature of the embodiments herein that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily modify and/or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments without departing from the generic concept, and, therefore, such adaptations and modifications should and are intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation. Therefore, while the embodiments herein have been described in terms of preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the embodiments herein can be practiced with modification within the scope of the appended claims.
[0077] While embodiments of the present disclosure have been illustrated and described, it will be clear that the disclosure is not limited to these embodiments only. Numerous modifications, changes, variations, substitutions, and equivalents will be apparent to those skilled in the art, without departing from the scope of the disclosure, as described in the claims.
[0078] In the description of the present specification, reference to the term "one embodiment," "an embodiments", "an example", "an instance", or "some examples" and the description is meant in connection with the embodiment or example described,the particular feature, structure, material, or characteristic included in the present invention, at least one embodiment or example. In the present specification, the term of the above schematic representation is not necessarily for the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the particular features structures, materials, or characteristics described in any one or more embodiments or examples in proper manner. Moreover, those skilled in the art can be described in the specification of different embodiments or examples are joined and combinations thereof.
[0079] All of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), and/or all of the steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be combined in any combination, except combinations where at least some of such features and/or steps are mutually exclusive.
[0080] Each feature disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings) may be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent or similar purpose, unless expressly stated otherwise. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed is one example only of a generic series of equivalent or similar features.
[0081] The invention is not restricted to the details of the foregoing embodiment(s). The invention extends to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), or to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the steps of any method or process so disclosed.
[0082] While the foregoing describes various embodiments of the invention, other and further embodiments of the invention may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof. The scope of the invention is determined by the claims that follow. The invention is not limited to the described embodiments, versions or examples, which are included to enable a person having ordinary skill in the art to make and use the invention when combined with information and knowledge available to the person having ordinary skill in the art.

ADVANTAGES OF THE INVENTION
[0083] The present invention provides a header assembly that is mounted on top of a switchboard panel.
[0084] The present invention provides a header assembly that carries the brand logo and product name along with the associated graphics.
[0085] The present invention provides a header assembly to a switchboard panel that can protect it from environmental elements such as dust and moisture.
[0086] The present invention provides a header assembly that is easy to repair or replace.
[0087] The present invention provides a header assembly that isindependent of eyebolts or lifting angles.
[0088] The present invention provides aheader assembly that conceals variations in location and placement of the lifting angles or eyebolts.
[0089] The present invention provides a header assembly and a panel assembly that is simple to manufacture and easy to assemble.