Pivotally Mounted Cable Connector with Friction-Lock Cover
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical connectors for flexible metal conduits and metal clad cables are complex and difficult to use, requiring both hands to mount and secure, making it cumbersome to achieve a right-angle bend for secure attachment to junction boxes or outlet boxes.
Innovation Solution
A conduit/cable connector with a pivotally mounted cover member and a base member featuring a right angular configuration, allowing for easy single-handed securement and retention of cables using a flange and locking mechanism, eliminating the need for complex screw-based systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If prior art connectors use two components (base member and cover member) with screw-based securing mechanisms, then the connector can securely mount flexible metal conduits and metal clad cables, but the complexity of operation increases and requires both hands to mount and secure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional screw-based mechanical fastening system with a friction-fit and snap-fit mechanism. The cover member features a friction-fit interface with the base member that provides secure retention without requiring threaded fasteners, and includes a snap-fit engagement that locks the cover in position, eliminating the need for screwdrivers and reducing operational complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector design allows the cover member to self-align and self-secure to the base member through the friction-fit mechanism. The flexible metal conduit or metal clad cable itself helps position the cover member during installation, reducing the need for precise manual alignment and minimizing the dexterity required from the installer.
2Reliability
If prior art connectors require both hands to remove the cover and secure it, then the mounting can be secure, but the installation time increases and additional manpower is frequently required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional screw-based mechanical fastening system with a friction-fit and snap-fit mechanism. The cover member features a friction-fit interface with the base member that provides secure retention without requiring threaded fasteners, and includes a snap-fit engagement that locks the cover in position, eliminating the need for screwdrivers and reducing operational complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector design allows the cover member to self-align and self-secure to the base member through the friction-fit mechanism. The flexible metal conduit or metal clad cable itself helps position the cover member during installation, reducing the need for precise manual alignment and minimizing the dexterity required from the installer.
3Adaptability or versatility
If prior art connectors incorporate right angular construction in the base member, then the conduit/cable can be mounted at right angles to junction boxes and outlet boxes, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the connector into two distinct components: a base member that mounts to the junction box or outlet box, and a separate cover member that attaches to the base member and secures the conduit or cable. This segmentation allows the base member to provide the right angular mounting capability while the cover member provides the cable securing function, distributing the functional requirements across separate components and reducing the complexity of any single part.
Data Source
AI summary
By providing a cover member which is pivotally mounted to the base member and is constructed for being automatically securely affixed to the base member by frictional and locking engagement therewith, an efficient, easily manufactured and easily assembled conduit/cable connector is realized. In addition, the cover member comprises a pair of gripping fingers constructed for engaging and holding a flexible metal conduit and/or armored or metal clad cable. As a result of this construction, the operator is able to quickly and easily insert a flexible metal conduit and/or armored or metal clad cable into the gripping fingers of the cover member, and then arcuately pivot the cover member and the engaged metal conduit and/or armored or metal clad cable into the precisely desired mounted position with the base member.