Detachable Snap-In Fitting for Tool-Free Conduit Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical fittings make it difficult to disconnect and reconnect metal cables from junction boxes, often resulting in lost or misplaced components.
Innovation Solution
A detachable snap-in fitting with a main body and split rings that allow for easy connection and disconnection of metal conduits to electrical junction boxes, featuring a front split ring for exterior removal and a rear split ring for cable engagement, enabling secure attachment and easy detachment without tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional connectors are used to firmly secure the cable to the junction box, then connection strength is improved, but disengagement difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fitting incorporates a resilient portion that can be elastically deformed to transition between engaged and disengaged states. The resilient tab can be pressed to disengage from the latch feature, allowing easy removal without tools while maintaining strong connection during normal use
Solution Approach 2:
The fitting is divided into distinct functional components: a resilient portion with tab for engagement, a main body, and a latch feature. This segmentation allows the resilient tab to be independently actuated for disengagement while the main body remains structurally intact
2Reliability
If traditional connectors are used to secure the cable, then connection reliability is improved, but component loss risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The resilient portion is received within a recess of the main body, creating a nested structure. When the fitting is removed from the junction box, the resilient portion remains nested within the main body rather than becoming detached or lost
Solution Approach 2:
The resilient portion's elastic properties allow it to flex during engagement and disengagement while remaining attached to the main body, ensuring it cannot be lost during the removal process
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a fitting having a main body including a distal end and a proximal end, and a first split ring coupled to the distal end of the main body, wherein the first split ring includes an opening for receiving a main tab along an outer surface of the main body, and wherein the first split ring includes a set of disengagement tabs extending across a slot. The fitting may further include a second split ring within an interior of the main body, wherein the second split ring comprises a set of interior arms operable to engage a sheath of a cable.