Snap-In Zip Connector With Spring-Arm Fastener Lock
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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 system featuring an elongated slot and circular hole, along with a spring arm insert that engages with the fastener's threaded shaft to prevent removal without rotation, allowing for quick coupling and locking to an electrical box.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If long threaded portions are used in cable connectors to accommodate a wide range of electrical component sizes, then adaptability is improved, but installation time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into two distinct parts: a threaded portion for securing to the electrical box and a smooth portion for gripping the wire. This segmentation allows each portion to be optimized for its specific function, eliminating the need for a single long threaded portion to handle all wire sizes.
Solution Approach 2:
The smooth portion is pre-formed and positioned to grip the wire immediately upon insertion, eliminating the need to thread the entire connector length for small wires. The threading action is preliminarily prepared in the electrical box portion only.
2Adaptability or versatility
If long threaded portions are used in cable connectors, then the connector can secure larger components, but the operation becomes tedious and complex
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the threading function (secured to electrical box) from the gripping function (secured to wire), the operation becomes simpler. The technician only needs to thread the electrical box portion, while the smooth portion automatically grips the wire through its geometry.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using threading on both ends to secure different components, the invention inverts the approach by using threading only on the electrical box side and a smooth gripping surface on the wire side, reversing the conventional expectation that both interfaces require threading.
3Device complexity
If a universal connector design is used for all wire sizes, then device complexity is reduced, but installation efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector structure is segmented into threaded and smooth portions, creating a simple yet effective design that installs rapidly. This segmentation avoids the complexity of adjustable mechanisms while maintaining high installation speed through the straightforward two-part structure.
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 an electrical box without the need for extensive threading, significantly reducing installation time while maintaining a secure connection.
Implementation Method 1
the at least one insert having a spring arm on a first side of the at least one insert, 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
Implementation Method 2
at least one fastener extending through the at least one first fastener opening and the at least one second fastener opening and having a threaded shaft
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.