90-Degree Snap Fit Electrical Fitting with Inverted Tangs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ninety-degree quick-connect electrical fittings face difficulties in cable insertion due to tight internal bends and tang orientations, which complicate the insertion process, and are often constructed in two pieces, increasing fabrication costs.
Innovation Solution
A ninety-degree snap-fit electrical fitting with a one-piece connector body featuring a snap ring and internal snap ring, where the cable retaining tangs direct the cable towards the outside bend, facilitating easy insertion and providing a secure connection without the need for tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If prior art ninety-degree fittings include tangs that grasp and hold the inserted cable, then the cable is secured to the fitting, but the tangs direct the cable to the inside 90-degree elbow bend making insertion very difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the traditional tang orientation by positioning the tangs to direct the cable toward the outside bend of the 90-degree passageway rather than the inside bend. This inversion allows the cable to follow a gentler path during insertion, significantly easing the insertion process while still achieving secure cable retention through the tang engagement.
2Volume of moving object
If prior art ninety-degree fittings have a substantially tight 90-degree bend in the internal bore, then the fitting achieves compact space utilization, but it is difficult to pass the inserted electrical cable through
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies curvature principles by designing the 90-degree passageway with a gentle, rounded bend rather than a sharp angular turn. This curved geometry maintains the compact footprint of the fitting while providing a smoother cable path that reduces insertion difficulty and allows easy passage of electrical cables through the bent section.
3Ease of manufacture
If prior art ninety-degree fittings are constructed in two pieces, then assembly flexibility is provided, but fabrication costs are driven up
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the connector body into a single integrated piece, eliminating the need for separate assembly of multiple components. This one-piece construction simplifies the manufacturing process, reduces fabrication costs by eliminating joining operations, and maintains structural integrity while providing the necessary 90-degree cable routing capability.
Data Source
AI summary
A ninety degree snap fit electrical fitting for enabling rapid snap-fit insertion of an electrical cable to an electrical box. The ninety degree snap fit electrical fitting includes a connector body having a leading end, a trailing end, an internal bore, a box connection arrangement on the leading end, and a cable connection arrangement on the trailing end. A seat on the leading end of the connector body includes a snap ring with an outward extending locking tang. An internal snap ring is secured within the internal bore of the connector body at the trailing end. A cable retaining tang on the internal snap ring is adapted to engage and secure an electrical cable to the trailing end of the connector body.