Push-to-Connect Electrical Conduit Fitting for RMC and IMC

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional electrical conduit fittings and assemblies require specialized tools and are not interchangeable between RMC and IMC conduits due to differences in diameter and thread finishes, limiting their versatility in installation and disconnection.

Innovation Solution

A push-to-connect fitting assembly with a fastening ring having staggered or ribbed teeth, a sealing ring, and a release pusher that accommodates conduits of different diameters and finishes, allowing for secure connection and disconnection without the need for threading or specialized tools.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If conventional threaded fittings are used for RMC and IMC conduits, then strong connections are achieved, but the fittings are not interchangeable between RMC and IMC due to diameter differences

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection strengthVSAvoidfitting interchangeability

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The fitting body is designed with a universal interface that can accommodate both RMC and IMC conduits of different diameters. The interior surface includes a tapered portion that can adapt to different conduit sizes, allowing a single fitting to serve multiple conduit types without requiring separate threaded fittings for each size.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The fitting employs a compression mechanism where the compression member can be adjusted to different positions along the conduit. By changing the compression position and force, the fitting adapts to different conduit diameters and wall thicknesses, maintaining secure connections across varying parameters while eliminating the need for size-specific threaded fittings.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Strength

If threaded connections are used for conduit assembly, then secure connections are achieved, but specialized tools such as pipe wrenches and large pliers are required

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection securityVSAvoidinstallation simplicity

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The invention replaces the traditional threaded mechanical connection system with a push-to-connect compression system. Instead of requiring threading operations with pipe wrenches, the fitting uses a compression member that secures the conduit through radial compression and axial positioning, eliminating the need for specialized threading tools while maintaining connection security.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The compression mechanism is designed to be self-securing through the interaction between the compression member, fastening ring, and conduit. Once the conduit is inserted and the compression member is activated, the system automatically maintains the secure connection without requiring continuous application of specialized tools or complex tightening operations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If compression couplings with external locknuts and threads are used to secure unthreaded conduits, then non-threaded conduits can be connected, but the fittings remain non-interchangeable with threaded RMC and IMC fittings

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconduit type compatibilityVSAvoidfitting structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The invention merges the functions of multiple separate fittings (threaded fittings for RMC/IMC, compression couplings for unthreaded conduits) into a single integrated fitting body. The universal interface and adjustable compression mechanism combine the capabilities of both threaded and compression-fit systems, allowing one fitting design to securely connect both threaded and unthreaded conduit types without requiring separate coupling components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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

Enables secure, waterproof connections of RMC and IMC conduits of varying diameters and finishes using a single fitting assembly, facilitating easy installation and removal without requiring wrenches or other specialized equipment.

Implementation Method 1

The fastening ring can be provided with staggered teeth or ribbed teeth

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Implementation Method 2

The fastening ring and optional sealing ring can be secured within the fitting body to facilitate the push-to-connect installation of a metal conduit into the fitting

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical interlocking: Mechanical Fastener

Implementation Method 3

In various embodiments, a sealing ring member is also provided to facilitate applications requiring a waterproof connection

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElastic deformation: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS10969047B1Electrical conduit fitting and assembly

Publication Date: 2021.04.06 QUICK FITTING HOLDING COMPANY LLC

AI summary

A push-to-connect electrical conduit fitting and assembly facilitates the connection of multiple types of metallic conduit regardless of connection type and finish. In various embodiments, an axially internal portion of the fitting has an interior surface that tapers from a narrower radius to a wider radius as it extends axially outwardly from a tube stop element. A packing arrangement including a sealing member, fastening ring and release pusher are maintained within axially intermediate and/or outer portions of the fitting to facilitate retention of inserted conduits.