Tool-Free Mounting Clip for Multi-Size Conduit Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional mounting systems for electrical conduits require fasteners and tools for installation, are cumbersome to stock and install due to the need for multiple sizes of clips, and lack efficient engagement mechanisms with mounting brackets.
Innovation Solution
A mounting clip system that includes clip sections with clasps and release tabs for tool-less engagement with mounting brackets, and a bridge section with resilient fingers to securely retain elongate objects like electrical conduits, accommodating various conduit sizes without the need for fasteners.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional mounting systems use fasteners and tools for installation, then secure attachment is achieved, but installation complexity and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the conventional mechanical fastening system (screws, bolts, and tools) with a spring-loaded clip mechanism that uses elastic deformation and mechanical interlocking. The spring clips engage with corresponding slots in the mounting bracket, providing secure attachment through resilient force rather than threaded fasteners, thereby eliminating the need for tools and simplifying installation while maintaining reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system incorporates self-aligning and self-securing features where the spring clips automatically engage with the mounting bracket slots when the bracket is inserted into the conduit. The resilient nature of the springs provides automatic adjustment and locking without requiring manual intervention or tools, enabling the system to secure itself
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple sizes of clips are used to accommodate various conduit sizes, then versatility is improved, but device complexity and stocking requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting bracket is designed with a universal interface system featuring slots that can accommodate different conduit diameters. The spring clips are configured with adjustable engagement points and resilient properties that allow them to adapt to various conduit sizes within a range, enabling a single bracket design to serve multiple conduit sizes without requiring different clip variants
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded clips provide dynamic adaptation to different conduit sizes through their elastic properties. The springs can compress and expand to accommodate varying conduit diameters, and the engagement force automatically adjusts based on the conduit size, allowing the same mounting mechanism to securely hold different sized conduits without requiring size-specific components
3Reliability
If conventional mounting clips require fasteners, then secure engagement is achieved, but ease of installation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the multi-step mechanical fastening process (aligning holes, inserting fasteners, tightening with tools) with a single-step spring clip engagement mechanism. The spring clips are pre-loaded and ready to engage, requiring only the insertion of the mounting bracket into the conduit, thereby dramatically reducing installation time while maintaining secure engagement through the resilient locking action
Solution Approach 2:
The spring clips are pre-configured in a loaded state during manufacturing, with the springs already compressed to provide engagement force. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for on-site assembly or tool operation, allowing installers to simply insert the bracket and have the clips automatically engage, thus saving significant installation time
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
The mounting clip system enables secure, tool-free attachment of electrical conduits to mounting brackets, accommodating multiple conduit sizes, and simplifies installation and stocking by eliminating the need for fasteners and multiple clip sizes.
Implementation Method 1
A first set of fingers can extend from a first side of the arcuate bridge into the object passage to biasingly urge the elongate object toward the mounting bracket
Implementation Method 2
The set of clasps can be configured to engage opposing sides of the mounting bracket to retain the mounting clip thereon
Data Source
AI summary
A mounting clip is provided for coupling an elongate object to a mounting bracket that includes a top side and a bottom side. The mounting clip can include a set of clip sections, including a first clip section and a second clip section. An arcuate portion can extend between the first and second clip sections. The first clip section can include a first base, a first set of clasps to engage the mounting bracket, and a set of release tabs. The second clip section can include a second base, a second set of clasps to engage the mounting bracket, and a set of release tabs. The arcuate portion can include an arcuate band. A first set of fingers and a second set of fingers can extend outwardly from the arcuate band and can be configured to retain the electrical conduit against the mounting bracket.