Tool-Free Conduit Mounting Clip for Variable Diameter Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mounting systems for electrical conduits require fasteners and tools for installation, are cumbersome to adjust, and often cannot accommodate multiple conduit sizes.
Innovation Solution
A mounting clip system that includes clip sections with clasps and release tabs for tool-less engagement with a mounting bracket, and a bridge section with resilient fingers to securely hold conduits of various sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional mounting systems use fasteners and tools for installation, then secure mounting is achieved, but installation complexity and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical fastening systems (screws, bolts, and other fasteners requiring tools) with a spring-loaded clip mechanism that uses elastic deformation and mechanical spring force to achieve secure mounting without tools. The spring-loaded clips automatically engage with mounting holes in the bracket, providing reliable fixation through elastic retention rather than threaded fastening.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting clip system is designed to be self-installing through a simple push-or-pull motion that activates the spring mechanism. The spring-loaded clips automatically engage with the bracket's mounting holes when the clip is inserted, and the elastic force maintains continuous pressure to secure the conduit. No external tools or complex assembly steps are required—the system serves itself through its inherent spring mechanism.
2Reliability
If mounting clips are designed for specific conduit sizes, then secure retention is achieved, but adaptability to different conduit sizes decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting clip is designed with a universal structure that can accommodate multiple conduit sizes. The spring-loaded clips provide adjustable retention force through their elastic mechanism, allowing the same clip design to securely hold both smaller and larger conduits. The arcuate bridge section and positioning fingers can adapt to different conduit diameters while maintaining reliable retention through the spring force.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring mechanism allows the clip to change its physical parameters (opening width, retention force) dynamically. When installing different conduit sizes, the spring-loaded clips can deflect to accommodate varying diameters, and the elastic force automatically adjusts to provide appropriate retention pressure for each size, eliminating the need for multiple clip variants.
3Manufacturing precision
If mounting clips require tools for installation and adjustment, then precise mounting is achieved, but installation time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces tool-based mechanical fastening with a spring-loaded elastic retention system. The mounting clip features spring-loaded clips that automatically engage with precision-machined holes in the bracket, providing accurate positioning without requiring screwdrivers, wrenches, or other tools. The elastic mechanism maintains precise alignment through continuous spring force.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded clips are pre-tensioned during manufacturing to provide the necessary retention force. When the clip is installed by simple insertion, the pre-compressed springs automatically engage with the bracket holes and maintain precise positioning without requiring the installer to apply force or use tools for tightening. The preliminary spring tension ensures accurate mounting from the moment of installation.
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 mounting clip system allows for secure, adjustable, and tool-free mounting of electrical conduits to mounting brackets, accommodating multiple conduit sizes and simplifying installation and adjustment processes.
Implementation Method 1
The bridge section can include fingers that extend axially along and into the object passage to be aligned to resiliently engage the elongate object within the object passage
Implementation Method 2
The clip section can be deflectable by movement of the clip section into engagement with the mounting bracket in an installation direction to open the entrance to receive the mounting bracket into the bracket channel
Data Source
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AI summary
A mounting clip (100) is provided for coupling an elongate object to a mounting bracket (50) that includes a top side and a bottom side (56, 60). The mounting clip (100) can include a set of clip sections (102, 104), including a first clip section (102) and a second clip section (104). An arcuate portion (190) can extend between the first and second clip sections (102, 104). The first clip section (102) can include a first base (108), a first set of clasps (112) to engage the mounting bracket (50), and a set of release tabs. The second clip section (104) can include a second base (128), a second set of clasps to engage the mounting bracket (50), and a set of release tabs. The arcuate portion (190) can include an arcuate band. A first set of fingers (192) and a second set of fingers (196) can extend outwardly from the arcuate band and can be configured to retain the electrical conduit against the mounting bracket (50).