Compression Coupling Assembly for Rigid Conduit Connection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Securing two rigid conduits end-to-end is cumbersome and requires multiple persons due to their bulkiness and weight, necessitating a more convenient coupling assembly that can be managed by fewer users.
Innovation Solution
A coupling assembly comprising a coupling body, a gland ring, and compression nuts that allow for the securement of conduits by rotating the coupling body and compression nuts rather than the conduits themselves, with the gland ring providing internal threading to grip both threaded and unthreaded conduit ends, reducing the need for additional threading on unthreaded conduit ends.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional threaded coupling is used to secure two rigid conduits end-to-end, then the conduits can be securely connected, but multiple persons are required to maneuver and rotate the bulky and heavy conduits
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling assembly acts as an intermediary device between two conduits. Instead of directly connecting and rotating heavy conduits, the coupling assembly with internal threading receives both conduits and is rotated by the operator. The compression mechanism with gland ring and compression nut secures the conduits in place, transforming the operation from rotating heavy conduits to rotating a lighter coupling assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of threading the conduits themselves into each other, the invention inverts the approach by having the coupling assembly provide the threading mechanism. The coupling assembly with internal threads receives the conduit ends, and the compression nut threads onto the coupling assembly to secure everything together. This inversion allows the operator to rotate the coupling rather than the heavy conduits.
2Productivity
If traditional threaded coupling is used, then conduits can be secured together, but the process is cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling assembly is pre-assembled with the gland ring and compression nut before installation. The internal threading is already in place, so during installation, the conduits simply need to be inserted into the coupling and the compression nut tightened. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for on-site threading operations and reduces installation time.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional coupling methods are used, then threaded conduits can be connected, but additional threading is required for unthreaded conduit ends
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling assembly is designed with universal adaptability to work with both threaded and unthreaded conduit ends. The gland ring with compression mechanism can grip unthreaded conduit ends securely, while the internal threading accommodates threaded conduit ends. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate coupling types for different conduit configurations.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables secure and efficient connection of conduits with reduced manual effort, allowing a single user to manage the assembly, and effectively secures both threaded and unthreaded conduit ends without the need for additional threading, enhancing usability and safety in conduit systems.
Implementation Method 1
the compression nut 130 rotated about the second conduit 20 to compress the gland ring 120 about the second conduit 20 and secure the second conduit 20 to the coupling assembly 100
Implementation Method 2
The internal threads of the gland ring 120 allow the assembly 100 to secure conduits that are unthreaded externally by having the internal threading of gland ring 120 clamp down on, bite into, or grip a conduit
Data Source
AI summary
A coupling assembly for securing rigid conduits together end-to-end, or to a junction box, includes a coupling body, one or two compressible gland rings, and one or two compression nuts. The coupling body includes a first segment extending from a second segment, with an optional midsection therebetween. The compression nut threadably engages about externally-threaded coupling first and/or second segments, compressing a gland ring as it is tightened. A bend in the compression nut, and complementarily chamfers formed in the coupling body and the gland ring, may help to squeeze and compress the gland ring. The compressible gland ring is internally-threaded, and, when compressed, it bites down or grips unthreaded conduits, and its threads interlock with threads of threaded conduits. Two conduits may be secured together by rotating the coupling body and/or the compression nut of the coupling assembly without needing to rotate conduits, which can be heavy and cumbersome.