Integrated Conduit Coupler With Overmolded Seal for Mixed Conduit Types
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional coupling devices for electrical conduits require modification and additional components to connect different types of conduits, leading to labor-intensive installations and potential gaps or corrosion issues.
Innovation Solution
A conduit coupler with an integrally formed design, featuring a rigid member over-molded with a sealing sleeve, allows for direct connection of different conduit types without modification, using industry-standard methods and tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional coupling devices are used to connect different conduit types, then the connection can be made, but additional components and modifications are required leading to increased device complexity and installation time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple coupling functions into a single integrated coupler body that can directly connect different conduit types (metallic and non-metallic) without requiring separate adapters or modification components. The coupler body includes an internal thread structure that accommodates both conduit types, eliminating the need for multiple separate components.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupler is designed with universal adaptability to connect various conduit types through its internal threading structure. The single coupler body can interface with both metallic conduits (via external threads) and non-metallic conduits (via insertion), providing multi-functional connection capability without requiring type-specific components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional coupling devices are used to connect different conduit types, then the connection can be made, but labor-intensive installation and additional components are required leading to reduced productivity
Solution Approach 1:
By merging all coupling functions into a single pre-configured coupler body, the installation process is simplified to a single component installation rather than multiple component assembly steps, significantly reducing installation time and labor intensity.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupler body is pre-configured during manufacturing with the appropriate internal threading and sealing structures needed to connect different conduit types. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for on-site modifications, threading operations, or complex assembly procedures during installation.
3Reliability
If patch compound is applied to ensure no voids at connection points, then sealing is improved, but multiple applications and curing steps are required leading to increased time and potential for improper application
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the sealing function from the installation process and integrates it directly into the coupler body structure through an elastomeric sealing member. This eliminates the need for separate patch compound applications during installation, as the sealing is inherently provided by the coupler's built-in sealing mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastomeric sealing member automatically provides sealing at the connection points through its material properties and structural design, without requiring external sealing compounds or multiple application steps. The sealing action is self-activating upon installation, reducing both time and complexity.
4Adaptability or versatility
If conventional coupling devices require modifications based on desired configuration, then specific conduit types can be connected, but the ease of manufacture is reduced due to customization requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The coupler body is manufactured with a universal internal threading structure that can accommodate different conduit types without requiring custom modifications. This standardized design allows for efficient mass production while maintaining the ability to connect various conduit configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupler incorporates localized features (such as internal threading patterns and sealing surfaces) that provide adaptability for different conduit types without requiring overall customization of the entire component. These localized quality variations are integrated into the standard manufacturing process.
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
The solution eliminates the need for additional components and modifications, reducing installation time and ensuring a sealed, corrosion-resistant connection between different conduit types.
Implementation Method 1
The elastomeric material, when fully cured, may include certain elastic properties that enable the elastomeric material to form a seal around a periphery of the metallic conduit
Implementation Method 2
the coupling device includes a rigid member overmolded with an elastomeric material
Data Source
AI summary
Devices for coupling to a first and second conduit and methods of manufacturing the same. The device may include a first member defining a channel having a first opening and second opening, and one or more threads located on an inner surface of the channel at the second opening, the first member configured to receive the first conduit at the first opening and the second conduit at the second opening, and the one or more threads engages one or more threads of the second conduit. The device may include a second member circumferentially disposed around a periphery of the first member and axially extending therefrom, the second member including an inner diameter configured based on an outer diameter of the second conduit to enable the second member to form a seal around the second conduit when the second conduit fully engages the first member.