Conduit Latch System with Overlapping Edges
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conduit systems with existing latch mechanisms are prone to breakage under compressive, shear, and tensile forces, compromising structural integrity and allowing contaminants to enter, while also being complex and difficult to manufacture.
Innovation Solution
A tubular conduit with a longitudinal cut forming overlapping edges that maintain contact along an arc, combined with a hooked protrusion latch system on the exterior or interior for secure locking and easy access, ensuring structural strength and ease of use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a latch mechanism is added to allow access to the conduit, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity and structural integrity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism is segmented into simple functional components: a latch member with a latch arm that engages a receptacle, and a spring member providing biasing force. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, reducing overall complexity while maintaining functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring member automatically biases the latch member to engage with the conduit body, creating a self-latching system that maintains conduit integrity without requiring external fastening mechanisms. The system serves itself by using the spring's elastic energy to maintain the latched state.
2Ease of operation
If a latch mechanism is added to allow access to the conduit, then ease of operation is improved, but structural integrity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The latch member is integrated directly into the conduit cover as a unified structure, eliminating separate fastening components that could compromise structural integrity. The latch arm and receptacle are formed as part of the conduit assembly, ensuring strength is maintained while enabling access functionality.
3Reliability
If the latch mechanism is made complicated to ensure secure locking, then reliability is improved, but device complexity and ease of manufacture worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The complex multi-step locking mechanisms are extracted and replaced with a simple spring-biased latch system. The essential locking function is extracted from complicated mechanisms and achieved through the basic but effective combination of a latch arm, receptacle, and spring member.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch mechanism uses simple, inexpensive components that can be easily manufactured and replaced if needed. The spring member and latch arm are designed as basic mechanical elements rather than complex assemblies, reducing manufacturing complexity while maintaining sufficient reliability for the application.
4Reliability
If the latch mechanism is made complicated to ensure secure locking, then reliability is improved, but ease of manufacture worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The spring member serves multiple functions: it biases the latch member for automatic engagement, provides the locking force to maintain conduit integrity, and enables easy release when actuated. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate components for each function, simplifying manufacturing.
Data Source
AI summary
A conduit system for protection of wiring or tubing comprising a tubular shaped conduit with latch system designed to allow insertion of electrical wiring without disconnection of the wiring or without threading the wiring through the conduit. The latch system is comprised of an internal latch, external latch or both and is formed to such that the conduit maintains its structural integrity while facilitating full and easy access to the electrical wiring contained within.