Multi-Function Retainer Ring for Electrical Connector
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing snap-fit electrical connector assemblies require designated ground tabs for secure attachment to a junction box, which limits their design flexibility and increases size, as they need to engage a specific edge of the knock-out hole during insertion.
Innovation Solution
A multi-function retainer ring with inwardly bent finger-like extensions that serve both as ground conductors and secure the connector body to the outlet box, eliminating the need for designated ground tabs and allowing a more compact axial size by engaging the inner wall of the knock-out hole upon insertion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If designated ground tabs are used for secure attachment to the junction box, then the connector achieves reliable electrical grounding and mechanical attachment, but the connector size increases and design flexibility is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the ground tab function and the retainer ring function into a single integrated retainer ring structure. The retainer ring itself serves as the ground conductor, eliminating the need for separate ground tabs. This merging of functions reduces the connector size while maintaining both electrical grounding and mechanical attachment reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The retainer ring is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical retention by engaging the knock-out hole, provides electrical grounding through its conductive material, and provides structural support. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated ground tabs, thereby reducing overall connector size.
2Reliability
If designated ground tabs are used for secure attachment, then reliable electrical grounding is achieved, but design flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer ring is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical retention by engaging the knock-out hole, provides electrical grounding through its conductive material, and provides structural support. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated ground tabs, thereby reducing overall connector size.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the ground tab function and the retainer ring function into a single integrated retainer ring structure. The retainer ring itself serves as the ground conductor, eliminating the need for separate ground tabs. This merging of functions reduces the connector size while maintaining both electrical grounding and mechanical attachment reliability.
3Strength
If a threaded lock nut is used to secure the connector, then strong mechanical attachment is achieved, but the installation process becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the threaded lock nut mechanical fastening system with a snap-fit retainer ring system. The retainer ring is designed to be inserted into the knock-out hole and deform to engage with the box wall, providing strong mechanical attachment without requiring threading operations. This substitution significantly simplifies the installation process while maintaining attachment strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The retainer ring is designed with elastic deformation characteristics, allowing it to be compressed during insertion and then spring back to engage with the knock-out hole. This dynamic behavior enables easy installation through simple insertion motion while achieving strong mechanical attachment, replacing the static threaded fastening system.
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 solution provides a compact and secure connector assembly that retains both the connector body and conduit or cable, functioning as ground conductors without designated ground tabs, enhancing design flexibility and reducing the overall size compared to prior art connectors.
Implementation Method 1
the connector end is pushed into the knock-out hole so as to deform a retainer ring as it passes through the knock-out hole
Implementation Method 2
a multi-function retainer ring having a plurality of finger-like extensions or tabs with at least a portion of the extensions being inwardly bent. These inwardly bent tabs engage a captured wire or conduit upon assembly
Data Source
AI summary
A connector assembly having an external retainer ring for both securing a connector body to an outlet box and also securing a conduit or cable from movement relative to the connector assembly. A multi-function retainer ring having a plurality of finger-like extensions or tabs with at least a portion of the extensions being inwardly bent. The inwardly bent tabs engage and retain a captured wire or conduit upon assembly. Other tabs function to engage an inner wall of a knock-out hole of an outlet box upon insertion of the connector assembly into the outlet box. A method of connecting a wire to a junction box using the connector assembly is also disclosed.