Snap-In Zip Connector Clamp for Fast Wire Box Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing clamp-type cable connectors require tedious and time-consuming threading to secure smaller wires due to their long threaded portions, which are designed to accommodate a wide range of electrical component sizes.
Innovation Solution
A snap-in zip connector with a clamp that includes a first bracket member, a pipe, a clamp seat, and a fastener with a spring arm insert, allowing for quick coupling and locking to an electrical box without requiring rotation of the fastener, utilizing a collar tab for secure engagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If long threaded portions are used to accommodate a wide range of electrical component sizes, then adaptability is improved, but installation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fastener opening is segmented into two distinct parts: an elongated slot for initial fastener insertion and a circular hole for final fastener engagement. This segmentation allows the installation process to be divided into two stages: rapid insertion through the slot followed by secure locking through the circular hole, thereby reducing overall installation time while maintaining adaptability to different wire sizes
Solution Approach 2:
The elongated slot performs a preliminary action by allowing the fastener to be quickly inserted and positioned before the final securing step. This preliminary insertion through the slot eliminates the need for time-consuming threading operations, while the subsequent engagement with the circular hole ensures proper fastening, thus resolving the contradiction between speed and security
2Adaptability or versatility
If long threaded portions are used to accommodate a wide range of electrical component sizes, then adaptability is improved, but operation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening operation is segmented into two simple steps: inserting the fastener through the elongated slot (which accepts various fastener types without rotation) and then engaging it with the circular hole for secure locking. This segmentation simplifies the operation compared to traditional threading, as it eliminates the need for rotational fastening while maintaining adaptability through the slot's ability to accommodate different fastener configurations
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a traditional threaded hole that requires rotational fastening, the invention inverts the approach by using an elongated slot that accepts linear insertion of the fastener. This inversion simplifies the operation by eliminating the rotational motion requirement, making the installation process more intuitive and easier to perform while still achieving secure fastening through the circular hole engagement
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 rapid and secure attachment of electrical wires to electrical boxes, reducing the time and effort needed for installation while maintaining a secure connection.
Implementation Method 1
the spring arm extending into the circular hole and configured to flex in relation to the at least one fastener inserted into the circular hole, engage with the threaded shaft, and impede the removal of the at least one fastener from the circular hole
Data Source
AI summary
A snap-in zip connector with a clamp for gripping a wire between a first bracket and a second bracket. The first bracket includes a clamp seat and a first fastener opening formed by an elongated slot and hole joined together and extending through the clamp seat. The second bracket includes a fastener opening that aligns with the hole. An insert positioned in the elongated slot includes a spring arm extending into the circular hole extend into the circular hole that engages a threaded shaft of the fastener to restrict removal except through rotation of the at least one fastener.