PVC Conduit Transition Coupling for Damage-Free Slab Connections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for assembling conduits, particularly PVC conduits in concrete slabs, are inefficient and often damage the PVC risers or require costly concrete repairs, complicating the connection of liquid-tight connectors and associated tubing.
Innovation Solution
A conduit coupling method involving cutting a tapered connection region in the PVC conduit, using an industrial-grade adhesive to secure a transition coupling with a female thread formation, allowing for threaded engagement with an external male thread, facilitating efficient and damage-free connections in concrete slabs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional assembly methods are used to connect conduits in concrete slabs, then connections can be made, but PVC risers are damaged and concrete repairs are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a transition coupling as an intermediary component that connects the PVC conduit embedded in the concrete slab to the PVC riser above ground. This transition coupling has a tapered external surface that fits into a tapered recess in the concrete slab, and an internal threaded bore that accepts the PVC riser. This intermediary component eliminates direct mechanical stress between the rigid concrete slab and the flexible PVC riser, preventing damage to both elements while ensuring reliable liquid-tight connections.
2Productivity
If conventional cutting and connection methods are used, then conduit connections can be made, but the process is time-consuming and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The transition coupling is designed with a pre-formed tapered external surface that corresponds to a pre-formed tapered recess in the concrete slab. The threading patterns (external tapered threads on the coupling, internal tapered threads in the recess) are manufactured in advance during production. During installation, workers simply need to insert the coupling into the recess and secure it with adhesive, eliminating the need for time-consuming on-site cutting, shaping, and threading operations. This preliminary preparation of connection interfaces dramatically reduces installation time while maintaining connection reliability.
3Reliability
If traditional conduit connection methods are used, then connections can be established, but liquid-tight seals are difficult to achieve without damaging components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs tapered threading parameters (30-degree included angle) on both the transition coupling and the concrete slab recess. This specific geometric parameter creates a self-centering, self-aligning connection that naturally forms a liquid-tight seal through the tapered interference fit. The adhesive applied to the tapered surfaces cures to form a permanent liquid-tight bond. This parameter-based design simplifies assembly operations while ensuring reliable liquid-tight connections without requiring complex gaskets or sealing mechanisms.
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
This method enables efficient, time-saving connections of PVC conduits without damaging PVC risers or requiring concrete repairs, ensuring reliable and durable liquid-tight connections in various environments, including wet conditions.
Implementation Method 1
Industrial grade adhesive is provided to securely and permanently adhere the transition coupling to the conduit
Implementation Method 2
cutting the conduit at an inside surface thereof to form a connection region, which is preferably tapered
Data Source
AI summary
A conduit coupling assembly facilitates connection of tubing with a conduit section through which associated electrical wiring and/or cables are routed. The assembly includes a conduit coupling, which is joined the conduit section which projects above an associated concrete slab or the like. The conduit coupling assembly thus particularly facilitates routing of wiring from a conduit section positioned within a concrete slab or like flooring element, through the conduit coupling, and associated conduit or tubing.