Low Profile Electrical Connector With Gripper Arms
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electrical connectors for non-metallic cables are complex, expensive, and often require substantial space for installation, limiting their use in tight spaces and restricting connection to single cables.
Innovation Solution
A simple, low-profile electrical connector with flexible gripper arms and a dividing wall that allows easy insertion and secure holding of one or two cables through a knockout hole in an electrical box, providing strain relief and minimal external projection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional electrical connectors are used, then cable connection is achieved, but the connector projects substantially outward of the box, restricting use to boxes with substantial surrounding space
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of having the connector body protrude outward from the box as in conventional designs, this invention inverts the approach by having the connector body insert into the knockout aperture from the interior side of the box. The base flange remains inside the box while the connector body extends through the aperture to receive cables, thereby minimizing external projection and enabling installation in tight spaces.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional electrical connectors are used, then single cable connection is achieved, but the design is complex and expensive to manufacture
Solution Approach 1:
This invention merges multiple functions into a single integrated connector body: the knockout aperture interface, the cable receiving channels, the strain relief mechanism, and the mounting flange are all combined in one piece. This eliminates the need for separate components and complex assembly procedures, simplifying both design and manufacturing while maintaining the ability to connect one or two cables.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is designed with universal applicability to handle both single cable and dual cable installations through a single knockout aperture. The dividing wall creates separate channels that can accommodate one or two cables, making the connector versatile for different installation scenarios without requiring different connector types.
3Reliability
If conventional electrical connectors are used, then cable connection is achieved, but installation time is substantial due to complex operation
Solution Approach 1:
The connector body is pre-formed with integrated gripping elements and a dividing wall structure that automatically engages with the cables upon insertion. The notched areas and gripping surfaces are built-in, eliminating the need for separate cable securing steps. When cables are inserted into the channels, they are automatically held in place, reducing installation time while ensuring reliable cable retention.
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 easy, cost-effective connection of multiple non-metallic cables to electrical boxes with minimal external profile, reducing installation time and ensuring secure cable retention.
Implementation Method 1
Two flexible gripper arms are formed at notched areas of the base flange
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical connector for easy insertion of one or more electrical cables through a hole or knock-out of an electrical junction box. The electrical connector includes a substantially tubular connector body including sidewalls, a leading end, and a trailing end. The connector body includes base flange at the trailing end, an inner bore, and a dividing wall. For connection of two cables, the dividing wall keeps the separate cables from touching. Two flexible gripper arms are formed at notched areas of the base flange on opposing sides of the sidewalls. An inner tooth and an outer tooth are included on each gripper arm. Each gripper arm includes a top wall and an outward extending wing. The outward extending wing in combination with the base flange form seats on opposing sides of the connector body for accommodating the wall of an electrical box when the connector is pushed into a knockout hole in an electrical box or panel.