Low Profile Conduit Connector for Shallow Plenum Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional light fixture connection systems are cumbersome and inconvenient, particularly in cramped spaces, due to unwieldy connectors and the need for vertical conduit orientation, which requires more space and often necessitates two-handed operation or tool use for connection and disconnection.
Innovation Solution
A low-profile conduit connector system with a housing assembly that receives and retains conduits, featuring wire connectors projecting at a right angle for horizontal orientation, coupled with a locking clip allowing one-handed, tool-less quick connection and disconnection, enabling installation in shallow plenums.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If conventional connectors are used with vertical conduit orientation, then electrical connection is achieved, but plenum space requirement increases and installation becomes cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the conventional vertical conduit orientation to a horizontal orientation by positioning wire connector receptacles on the side walls of the light fixture housing. This dimensional change allows the conduit to extend horizontally from the wall rather than vertically from the ceiling, reducing plenum space requirements while maintaining connection stability and ease of installation through side-access connector receptacles
2Productivity
If conventional stab lock or push-in connectors are used, then electrical connection is achieved, but connection and disconnection requires two hands or tools and is time consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service connection mechanism where the conduit connector is designed with a push-in engagement system that automatically latches into the wire connector receptacle without requiring tools or two-handed operation. The connector features a simple insertion motion that self-secures the electrical connection, enabling single-handed, tool-less installation and disconnection that significantly reduces installation time and operational complexity
Data Source
AI summary
A connector system that is configured for deployment in a cramped space, e.g., a shallow overhead plenum. The connector system includes a conduit connector that is configured to connect to a light module to provide electrical power to the light module. The conduit connector includes a housing assembly that receives and retains an electrical wire carrying conduit on one end and houses one or more wire connectors on an opposite end. In particular, the one or more wire connectors are disposed vertically in the housing assembly such that a portion of the one or more wire connectors projects out from underneath the housing assembly and forms a substantially right angle with the housing assembly and/or the conduit. Further, the connector system includes a locking clip that is coupled to the light module. The locking clip connects the conduit connector to the light module without the use of a tool.