Push-to-Connect Conduit Adapter for Secure Electrical Wiring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional conduits for managing electrical wiring within electrical boxes often lack secure attachment methods, leading to potential damage, short circuits, and non-compliance with code regulations, especially when traditional threaded or soldered connections are used.
Innovation Solution
A push-to-connect fitting integrated conduit system with a tamper-resistant locking mechanism and sealing components that allows for secure connection and disconnection of piping elements without tools, clamps, or solder, ensuring a tight seal and compliance with code requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional threaded or soldered connections are used for conduits, then connection strength and reliability are improved, but installation complexity and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The conduit system is divided into modular sections with standardized push-fit connectors at each end, allowing individual segments to be easily assembled and disconnected without affecting the entire system. This segmentation enables tool-free installation while maintaining connection reliability through standardized interfacing mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical connection methods (threading, soldering) with a push-fit mechanical insertion system. The connector uses elastic deformation and friction-based locking mechanisms that engage automatically upon insertion, eliminating the need for threads, solder, or specialized tools while maintaining secure connections.
2Reliability
If conventional conduit attachment methods are used, then connection security is improved, but ease of installation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The push-fit connector is designed to self-align and self-lock upon insertion. The elastic walls of the connector automatically grip the inserted conduit, and the system includes self-aligning features that guide proper positioning without requiring manual alignment or specialized tools, making installation trivial while maintaining secure connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is pre-formed with elastic walls and integrated locking features that are prepared during manufacturing. These preliminary actions ensure that when the conduit is inserted, the connection security is immediately established without requiring additional steps during installation.
3Strength
If traditional conduit systems are used, then connection strength is improved, but installation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the time-consuming steps of threading, clamping, and soldering from the installation process by integrating these functions into a single push-fit connector design. The connector incorporates all necessary connection elements (grip mechanisms, sealing surfaces, alignment features) into one component that engages in a single insertion motion, dramatically reducing installation time while maintaining connection strength.
4Ease of operation
If push-fit technology is used, then ease of installation is improved, but connection security may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The connector utilizes composite construction combining elastic materials for the connector body with harder materials for the inserted conduit. This material combination ensures that the elastic walls provide secure gripping force while the rigid conduit maintains structural integrity, achieving both easy installation and secure connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector features curved elastic walls that conform to the inserted conduit, creating a friction-based locking mechanism. The circular cross-section and elastic deformation create uniform radial pressure around the conduit, ensuring secure retention without requiring threads or clamps, thus maintaining connection security while enabling easy push-fit installation.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of an integrated piping conduit in accordance with aspects of the present invention include a push-to-connect fitting integrated with an adaptor device and associated methods. Embodiments include an adaptor having a body portion, and an ear member extending at least partially radially outwardly and at least partially axially outwardly from the outer surface of the body portion.