U-Shaped Pull Box for Minimum-Bend Cable Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pull boxes with square, rectangular, or cylindrical configurations are inefficient for U-shaped wiring pathways, requiring oversized boxes that increase costs and occupy unnecessary space, and constructing a U-shape using multiple fittings is costly and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
A U-shaped pull box with a main body consisting of a first leg, a second leg, and a bridge portion forming a U-shape, along with a movable cover, which allows for efficient cable routing and space optimization by accommodating cables within the minimum bend radius without the need for oversized enclosures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a square, rectangular, or cylindrical pull box is used to accommodate U-shaped cable runs, then the cable routing function is achieved, but an oversized pull box is required which increases installation costs and occupies unnecessary space
Solution Approach 1:
The pull box employs a U-shaped configuration with curved interior surfaces that match the natural bend radius of cables. The bottom wall and side walls form continuous curved surfaces that guide cables through the U-shaped pathway without sharp angles, eliminating the need for oversized enclosures while maintaining code-compliant bend radii.
2Shape
If multiple fittings are assembled to create a U-shaped wiring enclosure, then the U-shaped cable pathway is achieved, but the cost and assembly time increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The invention integrates the entire U-shaped structure into a single pull box body consisting of a bottom wall, two side walls, and a top wall formed as one unified component. This eliminates the need to assemble multiple separate fittings together, dramatically reducing installation time and labor costs while maintaining the required U-shaped geometry.
3Shape
If multiple fittings are assembled to create a U-shaped wiring enclosure, then the U-shaped cable pathway is achieved, but the installation cost increases due to the high cost of multiple fittings
Solution Approach 1:
The pull box is manufactured as a single integrated unit with the U-shaped configuration built into the body structure. This eliminates the need to purchase and assemble multiple expensive fittings, reducing material costs and simplifying the installation process.
4Reliability
If an oversized pull box is used to accommodate minimum bend radius, then the cable routing requirement is met, but space is wasted in compact installation environments
Solution Approach 1:
The interior surfaces of the pull box are formed with continuous curved surfaces that precisely match the minimum bend radius requirements. The curved bottom wall and side walls create a smooth U-shaped pathway that guides cables through the required bend radius without requiring excessive clearance or an oversized enclosure.
Data Source
AI summary
A pull box for accepting cable in electrical wiring installations includes a main body. The main body includes a first leg, a second leg, and a bridge portion spanning between and interconnecting the first leg and the second leg. The first leg, the second leg, and the bridge portion form a U-shape and define an interior space. The pull box further includes a cover. The cover is movable relative to the housing to transition the pull box between an open state and a closed state. The cover permits access to the interior space when the pull box is in the open state and prevents access to interior space when the pull box is in the closed state.