Modular Conduit Duct Assembly With Dovetail Interlocking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conduit ducting systems face challenges in connecting multiple conduit ducts efficiently and maintaining structural rigidity, which affects the ease of installation and protection of cables, especially in harsh environments like underground railway and road applications.
Innovation Solution
The development of a conduit ducting system with innovative connection means, such as dovetail connectors and partitioning mechanisms, allows for easy connection and alignment of multiple conduit ducts, providing structural rigidity and flexibility in configuration, enabling the creation of longer conduit ducts from standard components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple conduit ducts are connected using conventional connection methods, then the conduit ducting system can be assembled, but the connection process is complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The connection mechanism is divided into modular components: dovetail connectors with interlocking pins and recesses, partitioning means with teeth and gaps, and separate alignment features. This segmentation allows each component to perform a specific function (connection, alignment, structural rigidity) independently, simplifying the overall assembly process while maintaining functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The dovetail connectors are designed to self-align and self-lock when brought together. The interlocking pins and recesses automatically engage when the conduit ducts are positioned correctly, eliminating the need for complex fastening operations or additional tools. The partitioning means with teeth and gaps similarly provides automatic alignment and connection.
2Manufacturing precision
If conventional connection methods are used for conduit ducts, then connection is possible, but alignment precision is difficult to achieve
Solution Approach 1:
Alignment features (such as guide rails, positioning pins, or shaped edges) are pre-formed as integral parts of the conduit ducts and connection means. These features automatically guide the ducts into correct alignment when brought together, eliminating the need for separate alignment operations or adjustments during assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The dovetail connectors feature asymmetric pin and recess geometries that provide directional guidance during connection. The asymmetric shape ensures that the conduit ducts can only be connected in the correct orientation, automatically achieving precise alignment while preventing misalignment or incorrect assembly.
3Strength
If standard conduit duct components are used, then the system is simple to manufacture, but structural rigidity is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The connection means and partitioning means are merged into integrated components that perform multiple functions simultaneously. The partitioning means with teeth serve both to divide the conduit duct into sections and to provide interlocking connection features. The dovetail connectors combine alignment, connection, and structural reinforcement functions in a single integrated mechanism, enhancing rigidity without requiring separate components.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection mechanism extends in multiple dimensions: dovetail connectors provide interlocking in the longitudinal direction, while partitioning means with teeth provide structural rigidity and connection in the transverse direction. This multi-dimensional approach to connection enhances overall structural rigidity while using standard manufacturing techniques for each dimensional feature.
4Length of stationary object
If conduit ducts are connected to form longer systems, then cable protection coverage is improved, but connection time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The conduit ducting system is divided into standardized modular sections that can be easily connected in sequence. Each section includes pre-formed connection means that allow rapid attachment to adjacent sections, enabling quick extension of the conduit system to any required length without increasing connection complexity proportionally.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection means are designed with universal compatibility across all conduit duct sections. The same dovetail connectors and partitioning means can be used to connect any two standard sections, regardless of position or orientation. This universality allows multiple sections to be connected using the same standardized process, reducing connection time and simplifying installation.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6b
AI summary
A conduit ducting system (1) is disclosed, comprising a plurality of casing components (2a)(2b), connection means (4a) and partitioning means (6), said connection means connecting said casing components together to form a casing duct (8), said casing duct having a casing duct axial length, with at least one of said casing components having a length equal to said casing duct axial length, and said partitioning means dividing said casing duct into a plurality of conduit ducts (10a)-(10d). The first connection means (4a) are configured to interlock with second connection means of an identical adjacent conduit duct.