Tamper-Proof Conduit Connector with Nested Fastener Cover
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing conduit and piping systems lack a secure method to connect adjacent segments and mount them to a support surface, as the attachment hardware is often exposed and can be easily removed, compromising the integrity of the system.
Innovation Solution
A conduit system featuring a tubular bracket with aligned openings and stop members that secures conduit segments together and to a support surface, using a cover member to prevent access to the fasteners and interior after assembly, ensuring secure connection and mounting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If simple pipe brackets and common compression fittings are used to attach conduit to walls and connect conduit segments, then the installation process is simple and hardware is easily accessible for maintenance, but the attachment hardware is exposed and can be easily removed, compromising system security
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the mounting bracket and connector into a single integrated device. The bracket portion attaches to the wall while the connector portion joins conduit segments, eliminating the need for separate mounting hardware and cover components. This integration maintains ease of installation while improving security by reducing exposed fastening points.
Solution Approach 2:
The conduit segments are inserted into and nested within the connector device, with the conduit ends positioned inside the bracket structure. This nesting arrangement protects the connection points and fasteners by enclosing them within the device housing, preventing easy access while maintaining structural integrity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate mounting brackets and connectors are used, then each component can be optimized for its specific function, but the overall device complexity increases and more parts are exposed
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting bracket and connector are merged into a single monolithic or integrally-formed device. The bracket portion with wall-attachment features and the connector portion with conduit-receiving features are combined, reducing the total number of components from multiple separate parts to one unified device that performs both functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated connector device serves multiple functions simultaneously: it mounts to the wall surface, connects adjacent conduit segments, and provides structural support. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate mounting brackets and connectors, simplifying the overall system while maintaining functional capabilities.
3Ease of manufacture
If conventional fastening hardware is used to secure conduit to walls, then installation is straightforward, but the exposed fasteners can be easily removed by unauthorized individuals
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening hardware and connection points are nested within the enclosed structure of the connector device. Conduit segments are inserted into the device and secured internally, with the external housing protecting the fasteners from unauthorized access. This nesting arrangement maintains simple installation while preventing tampering.
Solution Approach 2:
The vulnerable external fastening elements are extracted from the external environment and relocated to protected internal positions within the connector device housing. By moving the fasteners inside the enclosed structure, the design eliminates exposure to unauthorized access while maintaining the structural connection functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
A conduit system includes an open-ended sleeve with aligned openings through upper and lower walls of the sleeve for insertion of a fastener to secure the lower wall of the sleeve to a support. A cover member or bridge is inserted into the sleeve between two conduit ends to cover the opening in the upper wall after the lower wall is attached to the support, restricting access to the previously inserted fastener. The ends of two adjacent lengths of conduit to be connected are inserted into opposite ends of the sleeve to abut the opposite ends of the cover member, and the adjacent lengths of conduits are thereby attached to the support.