Spring Clip Electrical Connector Angled Insertion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical connector assemblies for attaching cables and wires to electrical boxes are complex, requiring multiple components and a straight insertion motion, which increases complexity and component count.
Innovation Solution
A connector assembly with an integral spring clip that uses a simple angled insertion and pivoting motion for secure attachment to the electrical box, featuring a spring clip with a free end that hooks onto the knock-out hole and curved spring arms to retain the cable, eliminating the need for an annular stop flange and enhancing electrical continuity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a circular snap fit retaining ring is used to secure the connector to the electrical box, then the connector can be attached to the electrical box, but the complexity of the connector increases due to multiple component parts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the retaining ring function and the connector body into a single integrated component. The connector body itself is formed with a spring clip that acts as the retaining mechanism, eliminating the need for a separate circular snap fit retaining ring. This merging of functions reduces component count while maintaining secure attachment capability.
2Ease of operation
If a straight linear motion insertion method is used to insert the connector into the junction box, then the connector can be installed, but the installation process becomes more complex and requires multiple components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic insertion process where the connector is inserted at an angle rather than straight on. The spring clip is designed to be deflected during angled insertion and then springs back to engage with the knock-out hole, creating a simple two-step installation motion that reduces complexity compared to traditional straight insertion methods requiring multiple components.
3Length of moving object
If an annular stop flange is used to limit insertion of the fitting into the outlet box, then insertion can be limited, but the connector requires more components and reduced electrical continuity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the annular stop flange component entirely and replaces its function with the spring clip mechanism. The spring clip, when engaged with the knock-out hole, naturally limits further insertion of the connector body into the outlet box. This extraction of the unnecessary component simplifies the connector structure while maintaining insertion depth control.
4Ease of manufacture
If multiple separate components are used to construct the snap-type connector, then the connector can be assembled, but the manufacturing complexity and component count increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple previously separate components (connector body, retaining ring, spring mechanism) into a single integrated connector body. The spring clip is formed as an integral part of the connector body, eliminating the need for separate assembly of multiple components while maintaining ease of manufacture through simplified production processes.
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
The solution provides a secure, simplified attachment method with fewer components, improved electrical continuity, and mechanical stability, allowing for easy installation and removal while maintaining secure cable retention.
Implementation Method 1
A free end of the spring clip engages the knock-out hole during installation. Additionally, a spring clip panel includes a plurality of spring arms used to retain the cable. Once the connector body is fully seated, the free end of the spring clip cooperates with a lug to secure the connector assembly onto the electrical box.
Implementation Method 2
a spring clip panel includes a plurality of spring arms used to retain the cable
Data Source
AI summary
A connector assembly including a connector body with a spring clip including a first free end for engaging a side wall of an electrical box upon installation. During insertion of the connector body the first free end is deformed so as to permit further insertion. Once the connector body is fully inserted, the spring clip cooperates with a lug on the connector body to hold the connector assembly onto the electrical box.