Duplex Electrical Cable Fitting with Perpendicular Entries

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current electrical cable fittings with 90 degree construction often face difficulties in installation due to limited space and the need for multiple cable entries, making it inconvenient to work with them effectively.

Innovation Solution

A duplex electrical cable fitting with a connector body, a movably connected cover, and a locknut configuration that allows for two entries, enabling easy installation of multiple cables by securing the fitting to an enclosure and using a captive screw to affix the cover in a closed position.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a single fitting with 90 degree construction is used, then the fitting can be installed in limited space, but it only provides one entry for multiple electrical cables making installation difficult and inconvenient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecable entry capabilityVSAvoidinstallation convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The fitting is divided into two separate entry points (first cable passage and second cable passage) that are perpendicular to each other, allowing independent cable installation from different directions. This segmentation enables multiple cables to be routed through the same fitting without interfering with each other, resolving the contradiction between limited space and multiple cable entries.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The fitting utilizes a three-dimensional configuration with cable passages extending in perpendicular directions (90 degrees to each other). By adding spatial dimensionality, the design allows cables to enter from different orientations (front and side entries), transforming a single-plane limitation into a multi-dimensional solution that accommodates multiple cables in limited space.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Adaptability or versatility

If a duplex fitting with two entries is designed, then multiple cables can be installed effectively, but the device complexity increases with additional components

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemulti-cable installation capabilityVSAvoidfitting structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting member integrates multiple functions into a single component: it provides structural support, creates the first cable passage, provides mounting threads for the locknut, and forms the perpendicular second cable passage. By merging these functions into one piece, the design achieves duplex cable entry capability without proportionally increasing overall device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The mounting member serves multiple purposes simultaneously: it acts as a structural support element, a cable routing conduit with two perpendicular passages, and a mounting interface for the locknut. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby managing device complexity while providing versatile multi-cable installation capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of operation

If the cover is made movable for easy cable installation, then accessibility is improved, but the reliability of cable containment may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecover accessibilityVSAvoidcable containment security
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The cover transitions from a static fixed state to a dynamic movable state, allowing it to be opened for cable installation and closed for containment. The cover hook mechanism enables controlled movement while maintaining secure engagement in the closed position, resolving the contradiction between accessibility and containment security.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The cover hook acts as an intermediary mechanism between the cover and the fitting body, enabling the cover to be easily opened and closed while maintaining secure containment. The hook provides a simple mechanical interface that allows manual operation for accessibility while ensuring reliable engagement when closed, bridging the gap between ease of operation and containment reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS10700507B2Duplex electrical cable fitting
Publication Date: 2020.06.30 THOMAS & BETTS INTERNATIONAL INC
  • US10700507B2 patent drawing
  • US10700507B2 patent drawing
  • US10700507B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A duplex electrical cable fitting includes a connector body having a mounting member and a base member, a cover having a cover hook, and a locknut configured to engage with the mounting member. The mounting member has a mounting member sidewall extending between first and second open ends with the first and second open ends defining a cable passage therebetween. The base member has a cover engaging member, which defines a cover engaging hole. The base member is connected to the mounting member at the second open end and extends downwardly therefrom. The cover hook is movably connected to the base member via the cover engaging hole so as to allow the cover to be movable relative thereto between open and closed positions.