Push-In Connector With Spring Steel Locking Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical connectors for metal tubes are complex, costly, and difficult to assemble, with many requiring multiple components and not being suitable for use with electrical metal conduits or tubes, necessitating a simpler and more efficient solution for connecting and securing these tubes.
Innovation Solution
A push-in connector with a spring steel locking device featuring obliquely bent gripping tangs and support tangs, allowing for unidirectional locking and easy assembly by pushing the tube through the connector, which can be used with or without a moisture seal, and includes a resilient sealing ring for rainproof applications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional connectors or fittings are used for connecting electrical metal tubes, then the connection is secure and reliable, but the device complexity increases and assembly becomes costly and difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into two main segments: a body portion and a locking device. The locking device is further segmented into gripping tangs and support tangs that can independently engage with the tube. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while keeping the overall structure simple and easy to assemble.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking device is designed to be self-actuating through spring steel elasticity. When the tube is inserted, the gripping tangs automatically engage with the tube's outer surface without requiring additional fastening operations. The spring steel material provides automatic locking through its elastic properties, eliminating the need for complex fastening mechanisms.
2Reliability
If traditional connectors with multiple components are used, then the connection is secure, but the assembly cost and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functions are merged into a single integrated locking device: gripping, locking, and electrical grounding. The gripping tangs and support tangs work together as one unit to secure the tube, eliminating the need for separate fastening components. This merging reduces assembly steps to a simple push-in operation while maintaining secure connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking device serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical gripping to secure the tube, acts as an electrical ground through the spring steel material, and includes integrated support tangs for structural stability. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for additional separate components, reducing both assembly time and cost.
3Ease of operation
If a simple push-in connector is used, then assembly is easy and fast, but the locking mechanism may not provide sufficient grip or prevention of unintentional separation
Solution Approach 1:
The gripping tangs are designed with asymmetric geometry featuring inclined gripping surfaces that engage unidirectionally with the tube. This asymmetric design allows easy insertion in one direction while providing strong resistance to removal in the opposite direction. The support tangs are positioned asymmetrically to optimize both insertion ease and locking reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking device utilizes curved and rounded surfaces on the gripping tangs that conform to the cylindrical shape of the electrical metal tube. These curved surfaces distribute contact pressure evenly around the tube, providing reliable gripping while allowing smooth insertion. The rounded geometry also prevents stress concentration points that could lead to failure.
4Force
If the locking device is made from spring steel with intricate tangs, then gripping force is enhanced, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spring steel material properties are optimized to provide the required gripping force through controlled elasticity. The tangs are designed with specific thickness and length parameters that balance gripping strength with manufacturability. By carefully selecting material parameters and geometric dimensions, the connector achieves strong gripping force while remaining suitable for standard manufacturing processes.
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 cost-effective, easy-to-assemble, and reliable method for connecting and securing electrical metal tubes to boxes or other tubes, ensuring a positive grip and easy removal, while maintaining electrical grounding and resisting moisture ingress.
Implementation Method 1
A locking device is provided within the inlet end portion of the connector body adapted to engage with an electric metal tube or conduit inserted into the connector body... constructed of spring steel... effect a positive unidirectional gripping force on an associated electric metal tube
Implementation Method 2
resilient sealing ring for rainproof applications... resisting moisture ingress
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical fitting in the form of a connector or coupler for connecting an electric metal tube to an electrical box or panel or to one another. The fitting includes a body having an inlet end portion, an outlet end portion and a bore extending therethrough. An unidirectional locking device is disposed in an outermost chamber and a sealing washer disposed in an intermediate chamber. A split ring having an angularly bent leading end is provided with a series of offset circumferentially spaced unidirectional gripping tangs. The locking device may also be provided with a series of tube support tangs at the trailing end. Also, the locking device includes a tang forming an electrical bonding or ground between tubes, locking device and connector body.