Modular Conduit Alignment with Coupler Assemblies
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing conduit installation methods are inefficient and prone to errors due to the lack of modular and quick assembly solutions for aligning and connecting conduits between terminal enclosures and terminal points in structures.
Innovation Solution
A modular conduit alignment system featuring coupler assemblies with alignment protrusions and receivers, allowing for the interconnection of conduit assemblies in series, along with adjustable mounting members for precise positioning and leveling, facilitating quick and error-free conduit installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional conduit installation methods are used, then conduits can be installed between terminal enclosures and terminal points, but the installation process is inefficient and prone to errors due to lack of modular assembly solutions
Solution Approach 1:
The conduit system is divided into modular conduit assemblies, each comprising a coupler assembly with multiple conduit interfaces. These standardized modules can be quickly connected in series to form complete conduit runs, dramatically improving installation efficiency and reducing errors compared to traditional custom-fitted conduit installation methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupler assembly serves multiple functions: it connects multiple conduits simultaneously, provides alignment features for precise positioning, and enables series connection of additional conduit assemblies. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate alignment and connection operations, reducing installation time while maintaining high productivity.
2Manufacturing precision
If conduits are connected without alignment features, then connection is simpler, but alignment and connection of conduits is inaccurate and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment protrusions and receivers are integrated directly into the coupler assembly structure, allowing the assembly to self-align and self-position when connecting conduit modules. This self-aligning mechanism ensures precise alignment without requiring external alignment tools or complex adjustment procedures, maintaining simplicity while achieving high precision.
3Reliability
If modular conduit assemblies with alignment features are implemented, then alignment and connection precision is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional alignment components
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment features (protrusions and receivers) are merged into the coupler assembly body rather than being separate components. This integration ensures that alignment and connection occur simultaneously in a single operation, improving connection reliability while minimizing the increase in device complexity through unified design.
Data Source
AI summary
Modular conduit alignment and resultant conduit systems are disclosed herein. An example system includes a plurality of modular sections, one of which connects to an terminal enclosure, each of the plurality of conduit assemblies having at least one coupler assembly having a first plurality of conduit interfaces extending from a first side of the at least one coupler assembly and a second plurality of conduit interfaces a second side of the at least one coupler assembly. The first plurality of conduit interfaces and the second plurality of conduit interfaces are aligned and form pathways that allow wiring to extend through the plurality of modular sections when the plurality of modular sections are arranged in series.