Push-to-Connect Electrical Conduit Fitting with Release Pusher
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electrical conduit fittings, particularly for EMT conduits, often require extra tools for installation and can result in insecure connections, leading to potential failure in protecting and routing internal cabling and maintaining conductivity for grounding purposes.
Innovation Solution
A push-to-connect fitting assembly with a fastening ring and release pusher, featuring staggered or ribbed teeth, allows for secure connection and disconnection of metallic conduits without the need for specialized tools, accommodating conduits of different diameters and finishes, and includes a release tool for easy disconnection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional EMT conduit fittings are used, then connection can be made, but extra tools such as screwdrivers, large pliers and pipe wrenches are required
Solution Approach 1:
The fitting incorporates a release pusher that allows the installer to disconnect the conduit by simply pushing, eliminating the need for external tools. The fitting serves itself by providing both the connection and disconnection mechanisms integrated into the fitting body.
Solution Approach 2:
The fitting is divided into functional segments: a fastening ring with teeth for securing the conduit, a release pusher for disconnection, and a fitting body. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently without requiring additional tools.
2Reliability
If conventional EMT conduit fittings are used, then connection can be made, but the connection may not be securely retained, resulting in failed connection
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening ring features curved or ribbed teeth that conform to the cylindrical surface of the conduit, providing uniform contact and secure retention. The curved geometry of the teeth allows them to engage the conduit surface effectively without creating stress concentration points.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening ring is pre-formed with teeth that are designed to engage the conduit surface upon insertion. The preliminary configuration of the teeth ensures that as soon as the conduit is inserted, secure retention is established without requiring additional tightening actions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional fittings are used, then connection can be made, but specialized fittings are required for different conduit diameters
Solution Approach 1:
The fitting is designed with a universal fastening ring that can accommodate multiple conduit diameters and types (EMT, RMC, IMC) through its flexible tooth structure. The same fitting body and fastening ring combination can secure different conduit sizes, eliminating the need for specialized fittings for each conduit type.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening ring's tooth configuration and flexibility allow it to adapt to different conduit parameters (diameters, wall thicknesses, finishes). The teeth can deform and conform to the specific geometry of the inserted conduit, providing secure retention across a range of conduit specifications.
4Ease of repair
If conventional EMT fittings are used, then connection can be made, but disconnection requires specialized tools and procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The release pusher allows the installer to disconnect the conduit by simply pushing, eliminating the need for external tools. The fitting serves itself by providing both the connection and disconnection mechanisms integrated into the fitting body.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of requiring a complex tool to pull or twist the conduit loose, the design inverts the approach by using a simple push action on the release pusher to disengage the fastening ring teeth from the conduit, making disconnection as easy as insertion.
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
Facilitates secure and tool-free connection of various metallic conduits, ensuring reliable protection and conductivity, while accommodating conduits of different diameters and finishes, thereby enhancing installation efficiency and reliability in dry environments.
Implementation Method 1
The fastening ring can be provided with staggered teeth or ribbed teeth... The fastening ring is secured within the fitting body to facilitate the push-to-connect installation of a metal conduit into the fitting
Implementation Method 2
The fitting body interior is formed so as to accommodate inserted conduit members of different diameters and finishes
Data Source
AI summary
A push-to-connect electrical conduit fitting and assembly facilitates the connection of multiple types of metallic conduit. In various embodiments, an axially internal portion of the fitting has an interior surface that tapers from a narrower radius to a wider radius as it extends axially outwardly from a tube stop element. A packing arrangement including a fastening ring and release pusher are maintained within axially intermediate and/or outer portions of the fitting to facilitate retention of inserted conduits.