CA3008496A1 - Inline drainable conduit coupler - Google Patents
Inline drainable conduit coupler Download PDFInfo
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- CA3008496A1 CA3008496A1 CA3008496A CA3008496A CA3008496A1 CA 3008496 A1 CA3008496 A1 CA 3008496A1 CA 3008496 A CA3008496 A CA 3008496A CA 3008496 A CA3008496 A CA 3008496A CA 3008496 A1 CA3008496 A1 CA 3008496A1
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- Prior art keywords
- coupler
- conduit
- drainable
- inline
- conduit section
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
- H02G—INSTALLATION OF ELECTRIC CABLES OR LINES, OR OF COMBINED OPTICAL AND ELECTRIC CABLES OR LINES
- H02G3/00—Installations of electric cables or lines or protective tubing therefor in or on buildings, equivalent structures or vehicles
- H02G3/02—Details
- H02G3/06—Joints for connecting lengths of protective tubing or channels, to each other or to casings, e.g. to distribution boxes; Ensuring electrical continuity in the joint
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L—PIPES; JOINTS OR FITTINGS FOR PIPES; SUPPORTS FOR PIPES, CABLES OR PROTECTIVE TUBING; MEANS FOR THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L55/00—Devices or appurtenances for use in, or in connection with, pipes or pipe systems
- F16L55/07—Arrangement or mounting of devices, e.g. valves, for venting or aerating or draining
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
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- Civil Engineering (AREA)
- Structural Engineering (AREA)
- Pipeline Systems (AREA)
Abstract
Described are various embodiments of an inline drainable conduit coupler for allowing the egress of a liquid from a lumen of the inline drainable conduit coupler to an exterior side thereof. Also provided is method for draining a liquid from a conduit having the inline drainable coupler intervening at least two sections of conduit coupled thereto and a conduit assembly including the inline drainable coupler.
Description
INLINE DRAINABLE CONDUIT COUPLER
FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0001] The present disclosure relates to electrical conduits, and, in particular, to a coupler for allowing a liquid to drain from a length of conduit.
BACKGROUND
FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0001] The present disclosure relates to electrical conduits, and, in particular, to a coupler for allowing a liquid to drain from a length of conduit.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Building codes, technical manuals and utility companies often insist or recommend that electrical connector wires servicing a building via an underground path be brought to the meter base enclosure through a solid conduit. The meter base enclosure is generally provided as sealed enclosure mounted to a wall of the building and from there an electrical connection is made to a breaker or fuse panel located within the building.
Electrical wires servicing, generally a utility company-operated powerline, such that power can be supplied to the building are encased in a conduit from the source, to the meter base where the meter base has electrical connections located within the meter base enclosure.
For example, a conduit carrying the servicing wires may come from a transformer or straight from the electrical power grid to service a meter base enclosure or in larger buildings to an electrical room.
Electrical wires servicing, generally a utility company-operated powerline, such that power can be supplied to the building are encased in a conduit from the source, to the meter base where the meter base has electrical connections located within the meter base enclosure.
For example, a conduit carrying the servicing wires may come from a transformer or straight from the electrical power grid to service a meter base enclosure or in larger buildings to an electrical room.
[0003] A problem can arise in underground electrical distribution in that water can sometimes leach into the conduit. The leaching of water into a conduit can be particularly problematic in hilly or wetter climates where the lowest point of the conduit is located below the elevation of a servicing manhole or electric utility distribution box. Thus, water accumulates in the conduit housing around the electrical service wire. In certain situations, based on the elevation of the meter base enclosure relative to the servicing manhole or electric company distribution box, water which has leached into the conduit may remain stagnant and accumulate in the conduit, leading to an undesirable situation where of a portion of an electrical wire is submersed in water, or in an extreme situation, water entering a building through the meter base enclosure and bore through the wall of a building. In such a situation, water may thus come into contact with an electrically-charged bus bar of a fuse or breaker panel and lead to catastrophic problems and may also flood a building or electrical room.
[0004] Certain building codes, technical manuals, and utility companies recommend or require that the conduit be provided with a means to allow water to drain from the conduit such that issues, for example, as those noted above are ameliorated.
Currently, an electrical professional is advised to obtain a fluid-transport-designed plumbing "T"-fitting and manually adapt such to work with electrical wire conduit to provide drainage.
The electrical professional is advised to install the fitting at a low point in the conduit, generally immediately below the vertical conduit stack feeding the meter based, such that water can drain from the conduit into the weeping tile surrounding a building foundation. Although in some jurisdictions it may be against a building code, since meter base-feeding wires and the encasing conduit is generally buried, in addition to the hassle of obtaining a possibly ill-fitting adapted plumbing pipe component, certain electrical professionals elect to not prepare and adapt such a fitting and not install in the conduit, thus leaving the conduit with no means to drain water therefrom.
Currently, an electrical professional is advised to obtain a fluid-transport-designed plumbing "T"-fitting and manually adapt such to work with electrical wire conduit to provide drainage.
The electrical professional is advised to install the fitting at a low point in the conduit, generally immediately below the vertical conduit stack feeding the meter based, such that water can drain from the conduit into the weeping tile surrounding a building foundation. Although in some jurisdictions it may be against a building code, since meter base-feeding wires and the encasing conduit is generally buried, in addition to the hassle of obtaining a possibly ill-fitting adapted plumbing pipe component, certain electrical professionals elect to not prepare and adapt such a fitting and not install in the conduit, thus leaving the conduit with no means to drain water therefrom.
[0005] U.S. Patent Serial number 5,769,035 entitled "Conduit Drain for Use in Non-Hazardous Locations", issued August 18, 1998 to Patrick Walker, describes a "T"-fitting shaped draining for installation between two lengths of conduit. The "T"-fitting has three openings arrange about the ends of the "T" shape. Ends of the two lengths of conduit are received in two of the openings of the "T"-fitting located 90 degrees from another. In operation, the "T"-fitting with the conduit lengths coupled thereto is arranged such that one length of conduit is vertical and runs upward; the other length of conduit running in a horizontal orientation. The third opening of the "T"-fitting is thus oriented downward. The third opening is adapted to receive a hollow threaded coupling. The threaded coupling, about the end not received in the third opening, has reversibly located thereon a frustoconically-shaped sieve portion with a screen assembly and having a drain aperture.
The frustoconically-shaped sieve portion is held in place on the threaded coupling by an end cap through which a portion of the frustoconically-shaped sieve portion can depend, thus forming the drain.
The frustoconically-shaped sieve portion is held in place on the threaded coupling by an end cap through which a portion of the frustoconically-shaped sieve portion can depend, thus forming the drain.
[0006] However, the use a "T"-fitting adapted to provide a drain, or the device described in U.S. Patent Serial number 5,796,035, present certain problems which may also lead to non-compliance with building codes and technical manual recommendations. For example, due to the shape of the "T"-fitting, it can be very hard for an electrical professional to insert a fish tape through the conduit once a "T"-fitting is installed and/or pull a wire from the electrical distribution box through the conduit and up to a meter base enclosure, due to the sharp direction change of the conduit with the "T"-fitting installed.
[0007] U.S. Patent Serial number 6,828,502 entitled "Fluid Release System For Secondary Conduit Extending Between a Transformer Housing and a Meter Box and Method of Use", issued December 7, 2004 to Gregory Green, describes a fluid release system for removing water from conduits. The system includes a coupling section of conduit for location above the ground level in the vertical section of conduit feeding the meter base enclosure. The coupling section has an aperture covered by an openable flap hinged to pivot upwards, when installed, between an open position and a closed position so as to reversibly cover the aperture. The flap is opened to allow the egress of water from the conduit above the ground level when a certain amount of water is present in the conduit.
[0008] However, the location of the openable flap in the system described in U.S.
Patent Serial number 6,828,502 does not allow for the drainage of water from the lowest point in the conduit, below the ground level and may allow stagnant water to accumulate in the conduit.
100091 Therefore, it would be desirable to provide an alternative means, which is easier to fish a wire through, as a drainable section of electrical conduit for use below ground level. A pre-manufactured device provided for use with electrical conduit, which is easier to fish a wire therethrough may also promote more electrical professionals to comply with building codes and/or technical manual recommendations.
[0010] This background information is provided to reveal information believed by the applicant to be of possible relevance. No admission is necessarily intended, nor should be construed, that any of the preceding information constitutes prior art or forms part of the general common knowledge in the relevant art.
SUMMARY
[0011] The following presents a simplified summary of the general inventive concept(s) described herein to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosure. This summary is not an extensive overview of the disclosure. It is not intended to restrict key or critical elements of embodiments of the disclosure or to delineate their scope beyond that which is explicitly or implicitly described by the following description and claims.
[0012] A need exists for an electrical conduit drain that overcomes some of the drawbacks of known techniques, or at least, provides a useful alternative thereto.
[0013] In accordance with one aspect, there is provided an inline drainable coupler for intervening and coupling two sections of a conduit assembly. The inline drainable coupler comprises a coupler body having a lumen, a first coupler end region adapted for engagement and fluid communication with an end region of a first conduit section and a second coupler end region adapted for engagement and fluid communication with an end region of a second conduit section. The coupler body includes one or more suitably sized apertures for allowing the egress of a liquid from the lumen to external the coupler body.
In some embodiments, the one or more apertures are provided along only one longitudinal half, or less, of the coupler body.
[0014] In some embodiments, the inline drainable coupler further comprises one or more screening members for inhibiting the ingress of debris into the lumen through the apertures. In some embodiments, the screening member is provided as a porous fabric sheet wrapped around and encasing the coupler body, whereas in other embodiments the screening member may be provided as a porous fabric sheet wrapped around an exterior wall of the lumen of the coupler body or in addition to a screening member wrapped around and encasing the coupler body.
[0015] In some embodiments, the coupler body has a radiused bend. In some embodiments, the radiused bend is provided as substantially 45 degrees. In some embodiments, the radiused bend is provided as substantially 90 degrees.
[0016] In some embodiments, the one or more apertures may be provided as a substantially circular bore and further embodiments, the one or more apertures may be sized between from about 0.1 cm to about 1.0 cm. In some embodiments the one or more apertures may be provided as a "V"-shape. In operation of the inline drainable coupler, in some embodiments, the "V"-shaped apertures may be provided and the inline drainable coupler installed intervening the first conduit section and the second conduit section for running a wire through the conduit assembly in the direction of the apex of the "V".
[0017] In some embodiments, the first and second coupler end regions may be provided as female ends for receiving therein an end portion of the first conduit section or the second conduit section, respectively. In some embodiments, the first and second coupler end regions may be provided as male ends for being received in an end portion of the first conduit section or the second conduit section, respectively. In some further embodiments, the first coupler end region or second coupler end region may be provided as a male end or a female end for coupling to a complementary end of the first conduit section or the second conduit section, respectively. In some further embodiments, the first coupler end region and/or second coupler end region is threaded for threadably coupling to a complementary end of the first conduit section or the second conduit section, respectively.
[0018] In another aspect, there is provided a method for preventing liquid accumulation in a conduit assembly. The method comprises:
providing an inline drainable coupler for intervening and coupling two sections of the conduit assembly, the inline drainable coupler comprising a coupler body having a lumen;
the coupler body having a first coupler end region adapted for engagement and fluid communication with an end region of a first conduit section and a second coupler end region adapted for engagement and fluid communication with an end region of a second conduit section;
the coupler body having one or more suitably sized apertures for allowing the egress of a liquid from the lumen to external the coupler body;
installing the conduit assembly between an electrical distribution feed zone and a meter base enclosure; and positioning the inline drainable coupler on a travel path between the electrical distribution feed zone and the meter base enclosure.
[0019] In some embodiments of the method, the inline drainable coupler is positioned near a low point on the travel path.
[0020] In some embodiments of the method, the inline drainable coupler further comprises one or more screening members for inhibiting the ingress of debris into the lumen through the apertures, as noted above.
[0021] In some embodiments of the method, the coupler body of the inline drainable coupler further comprises a radiused bend and the inline drainable coupler is oriented such that the radiused bend allows the first conduit section to be oriented upward towards meter base enclosure. In some embodiments of the method the radiused bend maybe provided as substantially 45 degrees and in other embodiments, the radiused bend may be provided as substantially 90 degrees.
[0022] In some embodiments of the method the one or more apertures may be provided as a substantially circular bore and further having a size between from about 0.1 cm to about 1.0 cm. In some embodiments, the one or more apertures may be provided as a "V"-shape wherein the method further comprises the step of installing the inline drainable coupler intervening the first conduit section and the second conduit section such that the apex of the "V" of the one more "V"-shaped aperture is oriented the direction of travel for pulling a wire through the conduit assembly. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the one or more apertures are provided along only one longitudinal half of the coupler body and the method comprises the step of, during installation of the inline drainable coupler, orienting the one longitudinal half having the apertures downward.
[0023] In yet another aspect, there is provided a conduit assembly for connection between an electrical distribution feed zone and a meter base enclosure. The assembly comprises an inline drainable coupler for intervening and coupling between a first conduit section and a second conduit section. The inline drainable coupler has a coupler body including a lumen and a first coupler end region and a second coupler end region. The first conduit section being provided for connecting the electrical distribution feed zone to a first coupler end region of the inline drainable coupler and the second conduit section being provided for connecting a second coupler end region of the inline drainable coupler to the meter base enclosure. The first and second coupler end regions being adapted for engagement and fluid communication with an end region of the first conduit section or an end region the second conduit section, respectively and the coupler body has one or more suitably sized apertures for allowing the egress of a liquid from the lumen to external the coupler body.
[0024] In some embodiments of the conduit assembly the inline drainable coupler further comprises one or more screening members for inhibiting the ingress of debris into the lumen through the apertures, as noted above. For example, the screening member may be provided as porous fabric sheet encasing the coupler body or lining the lumen, or both, in some embodiments.
[0025] In some embodiments of the conduit assembly the coupler body has a radiused bend. Furthermore, in some embodiments of the conduit assembly, the radiused bend may be provided as substantially 45 degrees and in other embodiments, the radiused bend may be provided as substantially 90 degrees.
[0026] In some embodiments of the conduit assembly the one or more apertures may be provided as a substantially circular bore having a size of between from about 0.1 cm to about 1.0 cm.
[0027] In some embodiments of the conduit assembly, the one or more apertures may be provided as a "V"-shape and in some embodiments, the apex of the "V"-shaped apertures, when the inline drainable coupler is installed intervening the first conduit section and the second conduit section are oriented for running a wire through the conduit assembly in the direction of the apex of the "V".
[0028] In some embodiments of the conduit assembly, the first and second coupler end regions may be provided as female ends for receiving therein an end portion of the first conduit section or the second conduit section, respectively. In some embodiments, the first and second coupler end regions may be provided as male ends for being received in an end portion of the first conduit section or the second conduit section, respectively. In some further embodiments, the first coupler end region or second coupler end region may be provided as male end or a female end for coupling to a complementary end of the first conduit section or the second conduit section, respectively. In some yet further embodiments, first coupler end region and/or second coupler end region may be threaded for threadably coupling to a complementary end of the first conduit section or the second conduit section, respectively.
[0029] In some embodiments of the conduit assembly, the one or more apertures are provided along only one longitudinal half, or less, of the coupler body and when installed are oriented downward.
[0030] Other aspects, features and/or advantages will become more apparent upon reading of the following non-restrictive description of specific embodiments thereof, given by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0031] Several embodiments of the present disclosure will be provided, by way of examples only, with reference to the appended drawings, wherein:
[0032] Figure 1 is a side view of an exemplary environment showing the inline drainable coupler of the present disclosure;
[0033] Figure 2 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the inline drainable coupler of the present disclosure;
[0034] Figure 3 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the inline drainable coupler of the present disclosure coupled to sections of conduit;
[0035] Figure 4 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the inline drainable coupler of the present disclosure;
[0036] Figure 5 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view along line 5-5 of Figure 2;
[0037] Figure 6 is longitudinal cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of the inline drainable coupler of the present disclosure;
[0038] Figure 7 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of the inline drainable coupler of the present disclosure;
[0039] Figure 8 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the inline drainable coupler of the present disclosure;
[0040] Figure 9 is a longitudinal cross-sectional perspective view along line 9-9 of Figure 8;
[0041] Figure 10 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the inline drainable coupler of the present disclosure;
[0042] Figure 11 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the inline drainable coupler of the present disclosure showing a wire through the lumen;
[0043] Figure 12 is a side view of an exemplary embodiment of the inline drainable coupler where the coupler body has a radiused bend; and [0044] Figure 13 is a side view of an exemplary embodiment of the inline drainable coupler where the coupler body has a radiused bend.
[0045] Elements in the several figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the figures may be emphasized relative to other elements for facilitating understanding of the various presently disclosed embodiments. Also, common, but well-understood elements that are useful or necessary in commercially feasible embodiments are often not
Patent Serial number 6,828,502 does not allow for the drainage of water from the lowest point in the conduit, below the ground level and may allow stagnant water to accumulate in the conduit.
100091 Therefore, it would be desirable to provide an alternative means, which is easier to fish a wire through, as a drainable section of electrical conduit for use below ground level. A pre-manufactured device provided for use with electrical conduit, which is easier to fish a wire therethrough may also promote more electrical professionals to comply with building codes and/or technical manual recommendations.
[0010] This background information is provided to reveal information believed by the applicant to be of possible relevance. No admission is necessarily intended, nor should be construed, that any of the preceding information constitutes prior art or forms part of the general common knowledge in the relevant art.
SUMMARY
[0011] The following presents a simplified summary of the general inventive concept(s) described herein to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosure. This summary is not an extensive overview of the disclosure. It is not intended to restrict key or critical elements of embodiments of the disclosure or to delineate their scope beyond that which is explicitly or implicitly described by the following description and claims.
[0012] A need exists for an electrical conduit drain that overcomes some of the drawbacks of known techniques, or at least, provides a useful alternative thereto.
[0013] In accordance with one aspect, there is provided an inline drainable coupler for intervening and coupling two sections of a conduit assembly. The inline drainable coupler comprises a coupler body having a lumen, a first coupler end region adapted for engagement and fluid communication with an end region of a first conduit section and a second coupler end region adapted for engagement and fluid communication with an end region of a second conduit section. The coupler body includes one or more suitably sized apertures for allowing the egress of a liquid from the lumen to external the coupler body.
In some embodiments, the one or more apertures are provided along only one longitudinal half, or less, of the coupler body.
[0014] In some embodiments, the inline drainable coupler further comprises one or more screening members for inhibiting the ingress of debris into the lumen through the apertures. In some embodiments, the screening member is provided as a porous fabric sheet wrapped around and encasing the coupler body, whereas in other embodiments the screening member may be provided as a porous fabric sheet wrapped around an exterior wall of the lumen of the coupler body or in addition to a screening member wrapped around and encasing the coupler body.
[0015] In some embodiments, the coupler body has a radiused bend. In some embodiments, the radiused bend is provided as substantially 45 degrees. In some embodiments, the radiused bend is provided as substantially 90 degrees.
[0016] In some embodiments, the one or more apertures may be provided as a substantially circular bore and further embodiments, the one or more apertures may be sized between from about 0.1 cm to about 1.0 cm. In some embodiments the one or more apertures may be provided as a "V"-shape. In operation of the inline drainable coupler, in some embodiments, the "V"-shaped apertures may be provided and the inline drainable coupler installed intervening the first conduit section and the second conduit section for running a wire through the conduit assembly in the direction of the apex of the "V".
[0017] In some embodiments, the first and second coupler end regions may be provided as female ends for receiving therein an end portion of the first conduit section or the second conduit section, respectively. In some embodiments, the first and second coupler end regions may be provided as male ends for being received in an end portion of the first conduit section or the second conduit section, respectively. In some further embodiments, the first coupler end region or second coupler end region may be provided as a male end or a female end for coupling to a complementary end of the first conduit section or the second conduit section, respectively. In some further embodiments, the first coupler end region and/or second coupler end region is threaded for threadably coupling to a complementary end of the first conduit section or the second conduit section, respectively.
[0018] In another aspect, there is provided a method for preventing liquid accumulation in a conduit assembly. The method comprises:
providing an inline drainable coupler for intervening and coupling two sections of the conduit assembly, the inline drainable coupler comprising a coupler body having a lumen;
the coupler body having a first coupler end region adapted for engagement and fluid communication with an end region of a first conduit section and a second coupler end region adapted for engagement and fluid communication with an end region of a second conduit section;
the coupler body having one or more suitably sized apertures for allowing the egress of a liquid from the lumen to external the coupler body;
installing the conduit assembly between an electrical distribution feed zone and a meter base enclosure; and positioning the inline drainable coupler on a travel path between the electrical distribution feed zone and the meter base enclosure.
[0019] In some embodiments of the method, the inline drainable coupler is positioned near a low point on the travel path.
[0020] In some embodiments of the method, the inline drainable coupler further comprises one or more screening members for inhibiting the ingress of debris into the lumen through the apertures, as noted above.
[0021] In some embodiments of the method, the coupler body of the inline drainable coupler further comprises a radiused bend and the inline drainable coupler is oriented such that the radiused bend allows the first conduit section to be oriented upward towards meter base enclosure. In some embodiments of the method the radiused bend maybe provided as substantially 45 degrees and in other embodiments, the radiused bend may be provided as substantially 90 degrees.
[0022] In some embodiments of the method the one or more apertures may be provided as a substantially circular bore and further having a size between from about 0.1 cm to about 1.0 cm. In some embodiments, the one or more apertures may be provided as a "V"-shape wherein the method further comprises the step of installing the inline drainable coupler intervening the first conduit section and the second conduit section such that the apex of the "V" of the one more "V"-shaped aperture is oriented the direction of travel for pulling a wire through the conduit assembly. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the one or more apertures are provided along only one longitudinal half of the coupler body and the method comprises the step of, during installation of the inline drainable coupler, orienting the one longitudinal half having the apertures downward.
[0023] In yet another aspect, there is provided a conduit assembly for connection between an electrical distribution feed zone and a meter base enclosure. The assembly comprises an inline drainable coupler for intervening and coupling between a first conduit section and a second conduit section. The inline drainable coupler has a coupler body including a lumen and a first coupler end region and a second coupler end region. The first conduit section being provided for connecting the electrical distribution feed zone to a first coupler end region of the inline drainable coupler and the second conduit section being provided for connecting a second coupler end region of the inline drainable coupler to the meter base enclosure. The first and second coupler end regions being adapted for engagement and fluid communication with an end region of the first conduit section or an end region the second conduit section, respectively and the coupler body has one or more suitably sized apertures for allowing the egress of a liquid from the lumen to external the coupler body.
[0024] In some embodiments of the conduit assembly the inline drainable coupler further comprises one or more screening members for inhibiting the ingress of debris into the lumen through the apertures, as noted above. For example, the screening member may be provided as porous fabric sheet encasing the coupler body or lining the lumen, or both, in some embodiments.
[0025] In some embodiments of the conduit assembly the coupler body has a radiused bend. Furthermore, in some embodiments of the conduit assembly, the radiused bend may be provided as substantially 45 degrees and in other embodiments, the radiused bend may be provided as substantially 90 degrees.
[0026] In some embodiments of the conduit assembly the one or more apertures may be provided as a substantially circular bore having a size of between from about 0.1 cm to about 1.0 cm.
[0027] In some embodiments of the conduit assembly, the one or more apertures may be provided as a "V"-shape and in some embodiments, the apex of the "V"-shaped apertures, when the inline drainable coupler is installed intervening the first conduit section and the second conduit section are oriented for running a wire through the conduit assembly in the direction of the apex of the "V".
[0028] In some embodiments of the conduit assembly, the first and second coupler end regions may be provided as female ends for receiving therein an end portion of the first conduit section or the second conduit section, respectively. In some embodiments, the first and second coupler end regions may be provided as male ends for being received in an end portion of the first conduit section or the second conduit section, respectively. In some further embodiments, the first coupler end region or second coupler end region may be provided as male end or a female end for coupling to a complementary end of the first conduit section or the second conduit section, respectively. In some yet further embodiments, first coupler end region and/or second coupler end region may be threaded for threadably coupling to a complementary end of the first conduit section or the second conduit section, respectively.
[0029] In some embodiments of the conduit assembly, the one or more apertures are provided along only one longitudinal half, or less, of the coupler body and when installed are oriented downward.
[0030] Other aspects, features and/or advantages will become more apparent upon reading of the following non-restrictive description of specific embodiments thereof, given by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0031] Several embodiments of the present disclosure will be provided, by way of examples only, with reference to the appended drawings, wherein:
[0032] Figure 1 is a side view of an exemplary environment showing the inline drainable coupler of the present disclosure;
[0033] Figure 2 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the inline drainable coupler of the present disclosure;
[0034] Figure 3 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the inline drainable coupler of the present disclosure coupled to sections of conduit;
[0035] Figure 4 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the inline drainable coupler of the present disclosure;
[0036] Figure 5 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view along line 5-5 of Figure 2;
[0037] Figure 6 is longitudinal cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of the inline drainable coupler of the present disclosure;
[0038] Figure 7 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of the inline drainable coupler of the present disclosure;
[0039] Figure 8 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the inline drainable coupler of the present disclosure;
[0040] Figure 9 is a longitudinal cross-sectional perspective view along line 9-9 of Figure 8;
[0041] Figure 10 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the inline drainable coupler of the present disclosure;
[0042] Figure 11 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the inline drainable coupler of the present disclosure showing a wire through the lumen;
[0043] Figure 12 is a side view of an exemplary embodiment of the inline drainable coupler where the coupler body has a radiused bend; and [0044] Figure 13 is a side view of an exemplary embodiment of the inline drainable coupler where the coupler body has a radiused bend.
[0045] Elements in the several figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the figures may be emphasized relative to other elements for facilitating understanding of the various presently disclosed embodiments. Also, common, but well-understood elements that are useful or necessary in commercially feasible embodiments are often not
9 depicted in order to facilitate a less obstructed view of these various embodiments of the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0046] Various implementations and aspects of the specification will be described with reference to details discussed below. The following description and drawings are illustrative of the specification and are not to be construed as limiting the specification.
Numerous specific details are described to provide a thorough understanding of various implementations of the present specification. However, in certain instances, well-known or conventional details are not described in order to provide a concise discussion of lo implementations of the present specification.
[0047] Various embodiments of the inline drainable coupler, as well as associated methods and systems will be described below to provide examples of implementations of the system disclosed herein. No implementation described below limits any claimed implementation and any claimed implementations may cover devices, methods or systems that differ from those described below. The claimed implementations are not limited to devices, methods or systems having all of the features of any one device, method or systems described below or to features common to multiple or all of the devices, methods or systems described below. It is possible that a device, method or system described below is not an implementation of any claimed subject matter.
[0048] Furthermore, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the implementations described herein. However, it will be understood by those skilled in the relevant arts that the implementations described herein may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures and components have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the implementations described herein.
[0049] In this specification, elements may be described as "configured to" or "adapted for" perform one or more functions or "configured for" or "adapted for" such functions. In general, an element that is configured or adapted to perform or configured or adapted for performing a function is enabled to perform the function, or is suitable for performing the function, or is adapted to perform the function, or is operable to perform the function, or is otherwise capable of performing the function.
[0050] The devices, systems and methods described herein provide, in accordance with different embodiments, different examples and embodiments of inline drainable conduit section coupler 10 for intervening two sections of a conduit assembly.
[0051] With reference to Figure 1, and in accordance with one exemplary embodiment, an inline drainable conduit section coupler for intervening two sections of a conduit assembly, generally referred to using the numeral 10, will now be described.
The inline .. drainable coupler 10 is provided with a first coupler end region 26 and a second coupler end region 28. The first 26 and second 28 coupler end regions are each adapted for coupling engagement with an end region of a first electrical conduit section 14 and an end region of a second electrical conduit section 16, as shown in the assembly of Figure 1 and Figure 3. In use, the electrical conduit assembly provides a path for one or more wires 42 to be laid therein such that wires 42 can run a length between an electric company distribution box 22 through to a meter base enclosure 18 generally located on building wall 12, as shown in Figure 1. In some instances, the electrical conduit assembly, or sections thereof, may be above ground. However, generally the second conduit section 16 will be located below ground 24 and be coupled to the second end region 28 of the inline drainable .. coupler 10, also located in ground 30, or in the proximity of the building weeping tile 46 or other suitable drainage location. The first electrical conduit section 14 is then coupled to the inline drainable coupler 10 at the first coupler end region 26 and provides a path for the wire up to the meter base enclosure 18. In some environments (not shown), the first electrical conduit section 14 may be coupled to the inline drainable coupler
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0046] Various implementations and aspects of the specification will be described with reference to details discussed below. The following description and drawings are illustrative of the specification and are not to be construed as limiting the specification.
Numerous specific details are described to provide a thorough understanding of various implementations of the present specification. However, in certain instances, well-known or conventional details are not described in order to provide a concise discussion of lo implementations of the present specification.
[0047] Various embodiments of the inline drainable coupler, as well as associated methods and systems will be described below to provide examples of implementations of the system disclosed herein. No implementation described below limits any claimed implementation and any claimed implementations may cover devices, methods or systems that differ from those described below. The claimed implementations are not limited to devices, methods or systems having all of the features of any one device, method or systems described below or to features common to multiple or all of the devices, methods or systems described below. It is possible that a device, method or system described below is not an implementation of any claimed subject matter.
[0048] Furthermore, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the implementations described herein. However, it will be understood by those skilled in the relevant arts that the implementations described herein may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures and components have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the implementations described herein.
[0049] In this specification, elements may be described as "configured to" or "adapted for" perform one or more functions or "configured for" or "adapted for" such functions. In general, an element that is configured or adapted to perform or configured or adapted for performing a function is enabled to perform the function, or is suitable for performing the function, or is adapted to perform the function, or is operable to perform the function, or is otherwise capable of performing the function.
[0050] The devices, systems and methods described herein provide, in accordance with different embodiments, different examples and embodiments of inline drainable conduit section coupler 10 for intervening two sections of a conduit assembly.
[0051] With reference to Figure 1, and in accordance with one exemplary embodiment, an inline drainable conduit section coupler for intervening two sections of a conduit assembly, generally referred to using the numeral 10, will now be described.
The inline .. drainable coupler 10 is provided with a first coupler end region 26 and a second coupler end region 28. The first 26 and second 28 coupler end regions are each adapted for coupling engagement with an end region of a first electrical conduit section 14 and an end region of a second electrical conduit section 16, as shown in the assembly of Figure 1 and Figure 3. In use, the electrical conduit assembly provides a path for one or more wires 42 to be laid therein such that wires 42 can run a length between an electric company distribution box 22 through to a meter base enclosure 18 generally located on building wall 12, as shown in Figure 1. In some instances, the electrical conduit assembly, or sections thereof, may be above ground. However, generally the second conduit section 16 will be located below ground 24 and be coupled to the second end region 28 of the inline drainable .. coupler 10, also located in ground 30, or in the proximity of the building weeping tile 46 or other suitable drainage location. The first electrical conduit section 14 is then coupled to the inline drainable coupler 10 at the first coupler end region 26 and provides a path for the wire up to the meter base enclosure 18. In some environments (not shown), the first electrical conduit section 14 may be coupled to the inline drainable coupler
10 at the first .. coupler end region 26 and provides a path for the wire into an electrical room of a building and from there service a meter base or electrical breaker panel 20. The wires 42 are connected inside the meter base enclosure 18 to the meter base and the meter base is electrically coupled to the breaker panel 20, generally mounted on the building wall 12, as shown in Figure 1. Thus, electrical power can be provided to the breaker panel 20 via the
11 wires 42 running inside the electrical conduit assembly from the electric company distribution box 22.
[0052] Turning now to Figure 2, there is generally shown an embodiment of the inline drainable coupler 10 of the present disclosure. The inline drainable coupler 10 has, as noted above, first 26 and second 28 end regions which are intervened by a coupler body 30. In some embodiments, the first 26 and second 28 end regions, intervened by a coupler body 30, may be a monolithic structure. A lumen 34 is provided along the interior of the inline drainable coupler 10 such that wires 42 may pass through a section thereof and be maintained in the inline drainable coupler 10. Located about the periphery of the coupler body are one or more apertures 32 which allow any liquids within the inline drainable coupler 10 to exit therethrough. In the electrical conduit assembly, the inline drainable coupler 10 is generally located at or near a low point such that any liquids which enter the conduit assembly may travel along the interior to the low point and exit the electrical conduit assembly via the apertures 32 located in the coupler body 30. For example, in the environment shown in Figure 1 where the inline drainable coupler 10 is located at a low point below the meter base enclosure 18, liquids may exit the coupler body 30 into the weeping tile 46.
[0053] Continuing with Figure 2, there is a screening member 38 located and fastened to the coupler body 30 which is provided to inhibit the ingress of debris into the lumen 34 and into the interior of the electrical conduit assembly yet allow the egress of liquids. As shown in Figure 2, Figure 5 and Figure 7, the screening member 38 may circumferentially encase the coupler body 30. In some embodiments, such as shown for example in Figure 6 and Figure 9, the screening member 38 may circumferentially line a lumen wall 36 against the interior side of the coupler body 30. Furthermore, in some embodiments, although not shown, two screening members 38 may be provided where one screening member lines the lumen wall 36 against the interior side of the coupler body 30 and the second screening member circumferentially encases the exterior of the coupler body 30.
In still further embodiments (not shown), there may be provided a plurality of screening members 38 which corresponds to the number of the apertures 32, where each screening member 38 is affixed to the coupler body 30 so as to cover a corresponding aperture 32.
[0052] Turning now to Figure 2, there is generally shown an embodiment of the inline drainable coupler 10 of the present disclosure. The inline drainable coupler 10 has, as noted above, first 26 and second 28 end regions which are intervened by a coupler body 30. In some embodiments, the first 26 and second 28 end regions, intervened by a coupler body 30, may be a monolithic structure. A lumen 34 is provided along the interior of the inline drainable coupler 10 such that wires 42 may pass through a section thereof and be maintained in the inline drainable coupler 10. Located about the periphery of the coupler body are one or more apertures 32 which allow any liquids within the inline drainable coupler 10 to exit therethrough. In the electrical conduit assembly, the inline drainable coupler 10 is generally located at or near a low point such that any liquids which enter the conduit assembly may travel along the interior to the low point and exit the electrical conduit assembly via the apertures 32 located in the coupler body 30. For example, in the environment shown in Figure 1 where the inline drainable coupler 10 is located at a low point below the meter base enclosure 18, liquids may exit the coupler body 30 into the weeping tile 46.
[0053] Continuing with Figure 2, there is a screening member 38 located and fastened to the coupler body 30 which is provided to inhibit the ingress of debris into the lumen 34 and into the interior of the electrical conduit assembly yet allow the egress of liquids. As shown in Figure 2, Figure 5 and Figure 7, the screening member 38 may circumferentially encase the coupler body 30. In some embodiments, such as shown for example in Figure 6 and Figure 9, the screening member 38 may circumferentially line a lumen wall 36 against the interior side of the coupler body 30. Furthermore, in some embodiments, although not shown, two screening members 38 may be provided where one screening member lines the lumen wall 36 against the interior side of the coupler body 30 and the second screening member circumferentially encases the exterior of the coupler body 30.
In still further embodiments (not shown), there may be provided a plurality of screening members 38 which corresponds to the number of the apertures 32, where each screening member 38 is affixed to the coupler body 30 so as to cover a corresponding aperture 32.
12 [0054] The screening member 30 may be provided with various mesh sizes as determined by one of skill in the art for a particular given environment. For example, a larger mesh size may be desirable and suitable in environments where the inline drainable coupler 10 is to be located in a large aggregate stone weeping tile 46.
Whereas in some environments, the mesh size may be provided as smaller in environments with the inline drainable coupler 10 is to be located in a sandy or dirt substrate. Generally, in preferred embodiments, the screening member is provided a landscape cloth or a porous fabric sheet 38a, as indicated in the figures.
[0055] The screening member 38 may be affixed to the coupler body 30 in several ways. Generally, the screening member 38 may be glued at various points to the coupler body 30 so as to suitably maintain it in a desired located relative to the coupler body 30.
However, in some embodiments, such as shown in the section denoted by S in Figure 7, the first 26 and second 28 end regions may be provided with a cavity into which the ends of the screening member 38 may fit and a portion of the first 26 and second 28 end regions overlap the screening member ends so as to sandwich a portion of the screening member ends between a portion of the first 26 and second 28 end regions and the coupler body 30.
Several methods of maintaining the screening member 38 in a desired location relative the coupler body 30 are contemplated herein and other methods may be apparent to one of skill in the art. The methods of maintaining the screening member 38 in a desired location relative to the coupler body 30 disclosed herein are not meant to be limiting but are provided for exemplary purposes of various embodiments.
[0056] The apertures 32 are provided for allowing the egress of liquids from the lumen 34. The apertures 32 may be provided as any suitable size, however the apertures 32 are generally provided from about 0.1 cm to about 1.0 cm openings. In some embodiments, apertures 32, as shown in Figures 2 to 10, may be provided as circular bores 32a. However, in other embodiments, such as shown in Figure 11, the apertures 32, may be provided as "V"-shaped apertures 32b. The "V"-shaped apertures 32b may be desirable in some environments and embodiments, so as to assist the pulling of a wire 42 through the lumen 34. For example, the shape of the "V"-shaped apertures 32b may provide a smoother pull to a wire 42 and/or fish tape during installation through the lumen 34 in that the shape of
Whereas in some environments, the mesh size may be provided as smaller in environments with the inline drainable coupler 10 is to be located in a sandy or dirt substrate. Generally, in preferred embodiments, the screening member is provided a landscape cloth or a porous fabric sheet 38a, as indicated in the figures.
[0055] The screening member 38 may be affixed to the coupler body 30 in several ways. Generally, the screening member 38 may be glued at various points to the coupler body 30 so as to suitably maintain it in a desired located relative to the coupler body 30.
However, in some embodiments, such as shown in the section denoted by S in Figure 7, the first 26 and second 28 end regions may be provided with a cavity into which the ends of the screening member 38 may fit and a portion of the first 26 and second 28 end regions overlap the screening member ends so as to sandwich a portion of the screening member ends between a portion of the first 26 and second 28 end regions and the coupler body 30.
Several methods of maintaining the screening member 38 in a desired location relative the coupler body 30 are contemplated herein and other methods may be apparent to one of skill in the art. The methods of maintaining the screening member 38 in a desired location relative to the coupler body 30 disclosed herein are not meant to be limiting but are provided for exemplary purposes of various embodiments.
[0056] The apertures 32 are provided for allowing the egress of liquids from the lumen 34. The apertures 32 may be provided as any suitable size, however the apertures 32 are generally provided from about 0.1 cm to about 1.0 cm openings. In some embodiments, apertures 32, as shown in Figures 2 to 10, may be provided as circular bores 32a. However, in other embodiments, such as shown in Figure 11, the apertures 32, may be provided as "V"-shaped apertures 32b. The "V"-shaped apertures 32b may be desirable in some environments and embodiments, so as to assist the pulling of a wire 42 through the lumen 34. For example, the shape of the "V"-shaped apertures 32b may provide a smoother pull to a wire 42 and/or fish tape during installation through the lumen 34 in that the shape of
13 the aperture may inhibit the end of the wire and/or fish tape from getting hung-up on an aperture. Figure 11 shows, in an exemplary embodiment, the travel direction of the wire 42 in pulling through the lumen 34 at T. That being that the wire 42 may be pulled in the direction denoted by T, towards the apex of the "V"-shaped apertures 38b. In some embodiments (not shown), the apertures may be provided as slits either longitudinally along the length of the coupler body 30, or transversely across the coupler body 30, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the apertures 32 may be provided as a combination of different shapes.
100571 The apertures 32, as shown in the figures, may be provided about the circumference of the coupler body 30. However, with particular reference to Figure 4, in some embodiments, the apertures 32 are provided only along one half or less of the longitudinal section of the coupler body 30. In other words, the apertures 32 may only be provided along a bottom side the coupler 30 body. In such embodiments, the coupler body 30 may be configured, when assembled to form the electrical conduit assembly, such the apertures are oriented downward such that liquids may not enter the lumen 34 from the oriented top side. For example, in particularly damp and rainy climates, such an embodiment may be useful to prevent water leaking through the ground 30 from above from entering the lumen 34. Furthermore, although not shown the apertures may be provide in a row or clusters intended to be oriented downward in use.
100581 Turing now to Figures 12 and 13, there may be provided a radiused bend 40 to the coupler body 30. The radiused bend 40 is provided to facilitate a required change in direction of various sections of the conduit joined by the inline drainable coupler 10. For example, as shown in Figure 1, the second electrical conduit section 16 comes from the electrical company distribution box 22 to the inline drainable coupler 10 and then a change in direction of the conduit is required as the first electrical conduit section 14 goes upward from the ground 30 into the meter base enclosure 18. The inline drainable coupler 10, provided with the radius bend 40, thus allows the direction change.
Furthermore, when the inline drainable coupler 10 is located at the low point, liquid can drain from the lumen of the conduit assembly into the weeping tile, or in other words, egress the interior of the electrical conduit assembly through the inline drainable coupler 10. For example, as shown
100571 The apertures 32, as shown in the figures, may be provided about the circumference of the coupler body 30. However, with particular reference to Figure 4, in some embodiments, the apertures 32 are provided only along one half or less of the longitudinal section of the coupler body 30. In other words, the apertures 32 may only be provided along a bottom side the coupler 30 body. In such embodiments, the coupler body 30 may be configured, when assembled to form the electrical conduit assembly, such the apertures are oriented downward such that liquids may not enter the lumen 34 from the oriented top side. For example, in particularly damp and rainy climates, such an embodiment may be useful to prevent water leaking through the ground 30 from above from entering the lumen 34. Furthermore, although not shown the apertures may be provide in a row or clusters intended to be oriented downward in use.
100581 Turing now to Figures 12 and 13, there may be provided a radiused bend 40 to the coupler body 30. The radiused bend 40 is provided to facilitate a required change in direction of various sections of the conduit joined by the inline drainable coupler 10. For example, as shown in Figure 1, the second electrical conduit section 16 comes from the electrical company distribution box 22 to the inline drainable coupler 10 and then a change in direction of the conduit is required as the first electrical conduit section 14 goes upward from the ground 30 into the meter base enclosure 18. The inline drainable coupler 10, provided with the radius bend 40, thus allows the direction change.
Furthermore, when the inline drainable coupler 10 is located at the low point, liquid can drain from the lumen of the conduit assembly into the weeping tile, or in other words, egress the interior of the electrical conduit assembly through the inline drainable coupler 10. For example, as shown
14 in Figure 12, the coupler body 30 may be provided with about a 90 degree bend or about a 45 degree bend, as shown in Figure 13. The radiused bend angles shown and disclosed herein should not be construed as limiting as one of skill in the art will appreciate that in certain situations differing degree bends may be required and thus may be provided. The radiused bend 40 is also provided, as opposed sharp-angled direction changes to facilitate the pulling of a wire 42 through the direction change. For example, the radiused bend 40 may provide a smoother transition to the direction change for pulling the wire 42 as opposed to sharp-angled direct change provided by a conventional plumbing elbow or "T"-fitting shape and thus facilitate the pulling of a wire and/or fish tape therethrough.
[0059] Figure 3 shows an embodiment of the inline drainable coupler 10 as disclosed herein wherein the first 26 and second 28 coupler end regions are provided as female ends where an end region of the first electrical conduit section 14 is received in the first coupler end region 14 and an end region of the second electrical conduit section 16 is received in the second coupler end region 26. In other embodiments, it may be reversed wherein the first 26 and second 28 coupler end regions are provided as male ends and are received into complementary female end regions of the respective end regions of the first 14 and second 16 electrical conduit sections. Furthermore, in some embodiments, one male and one female end region may be provided on the inline drainable coupler 10 for complementarily coupling with corresponding end regions of the first 14 and second 16 electrical conduit sections. Figure 10 notes a female end region 44a and a male end region 44b, albeit with regard to threaded 44c coupling end regions. In the embodiments noted above, the coupling of the inline drainable coupler 10 may be via friction fit and/or the parts further glued together.
[0060] Turning now specifically to Figure 10, a female threaded coupler end region 44a and male threaded coupler end region 44b is shown for threadably coupling with complementary threaded end regions (not shown) of the first 14 and second 16 electrical conduit sections. Similar to the abovementioned friction-fit end regions, the threaded 44c end regions may be provided as both male, both female, or a combination of female 44a and male 44b. Alternative means of coupling the inline drainable coupler 10 to the first 14 and second 16 electrical conduit sections may be realized by one of skill in the art upon a reading of the instant disclosure and are therefore are contemplated within the instant disclosure. For example, the first 24 and second 26 end regions may be provided for coupling to the end regions of the first 14 and second 16 conduit sections and further engaged therewith by an intervening coupling means. The various coupling means are provided to further the understanding of the instant disclosure and as examples.
[0061] While the present disclosure describes various embodiments for illustrative purposes, such description is not intended to be limited to such embodiments.
On the contrary, the applicant's teachings described and illustrated herein encompass various alternatives, modifications, and equivalents, without departing from the embodiments, the general scope of which is defined in the appended claims. Except to the extent necessary or inherent in the processes themselves, no particular order to steps or stages of methods or processes described in this disclosure is intended or implied. In many cases the order of process steps may be varied without changing the purpose, effect, or import of the methods described.
[0062] In accordance with the above-described inline drainable coupler 10 and the various embodiment described herein as well as variations therein, there is also provided a method for preventing liquid accumulation in a conduit assembly. In accordance with method, the inline drainable coupler 10 is provided intervening and coupled to a first electrical conduit section 14 and a second electrical conduit section 16, as shown for example in Figure 1. Furthermore, when assembled, also as shown for example in Figure 1, a drainable conduit system is provided for connection between an electric company distribution box 22, or similar, and a meter base enclosure 18, or similar, for housing a wire 42.
[0063] Information as herein shown and described in detail is fully capable of attaining the above-described object of the present disclosure, the presently preferred embodiments of the present disclosure, and is, thus, representative of the subject matter which is broadly contemplated by the present disclosure. The scope of the present disclosure fully encompasses other embodiments which may become apparent to those skilled in the art, and is to be limited, accordingly, by nothing other than the appended claims, wherein any reference to an element being made in the singular is not intended to mean "one and only one" unless explicitly so stated, but rather "one or more." All structural and functional equivalents to the elements of the above-described preferred embodiment and additional embodiments as regarded by those of ordinary skill in the art are hereby expressly incorporated by reference and are intended to be encompassed by the present claims. Moreover, no requirement exists for a system or method to address each and every problem sought to be resolved by the present disclosure, for such to be encompassed by the present claims. Furthermore, no element, component, or method step in the present disclosure is intended to be dedicated to the public regardless of whether the element, component, or method step is explicitly recited in the claims. However, that various changes and modifications in form, material, work-piece, and fabrication material detail may be made, without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, as set forth in the appended claims, as may be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art, are also encompassed by the disclosure.
[0059] Figure 3 shows an embodiment of the inline drainable coupler 10 as disclosed herein wherein the first 26 and second 28 coupler end regions are provided as female ends where an end region of the first electrical conduit section 14 is received in the first coupler end region 14 and an end region of the second electrical conduit section 16 is received in the second coupler end region 26. In other embodiments, it may be reversed wherein the first 26 and second 28 coupler end regions are provided as male ends and are received into complementary female end regions of the respective end regions of the first 14 and second 16 electrical conduit sections. Furthermore, in some embodiments, one male and one female end region may be provided on the inline drainable coupler 10 for complementarily coupling with corresponding end regions of the first 14 and second 16 electrical conduit sections. Figure 10 notes a female end region 44a and a male end region 44b, albeit with regard to threaded 44c coupling end regions. In the embodiments noted above, the coupling of the inline drainable coupler 10 may be via friction fit and/or the parts further glued together.
[0060] Turning now specifically to Figure 10, a female threaded coupler end region 44a and male threaded coupler end region 44b is shown for threadably coupling with complementary threaded end regions (not shown) of the first 14 and second 16 electrical conduit sections. Similar to the abovementioned friction-fit end regions, the threaded 44c end regions may be provided as both male, both female, or a combination of female 44a and male 44b. Alternative means of coupling the inline drainable coupler 10 to the first 14 and second 16 electrical conduit sections may be realized by one of skill in the art upon a reading of the instant disclosure and are therefore are contemplated within the instant disclosure. For example, the first 24 and second 26 end regions may be provided for coupling to the end regions of the first 14 and second 16 conduit sections and further engaged therewith by an intervening coupling means. The various coupling means are provided to further the understanding of the instant disclosure and as examples.
[0061] While the present disclosure describes various embodiments for illustrative purposes, such description is not intended to be limited to such embodiments.
On the contrary, the applicant's teachings described and illustrated herein encompass various alternatives, modifications, and equivalents, without departing from the embodiments, the general scope of which is defined in the appended claims. Except to the extent necessary or inherent in the processes themselves, no particular order to steps or stages of methods or processes described in this disclosure is intended or implied. In many cases the order of process steps may be varied without changing the purpose, effect, or import of the methods described.
[0062] In accordance with the above-described inline drainable coupler 10 and the various embodiment described herein as well as variations therein, there is also provided a method for preventing liquid accumulation in a conduit assembly. In accordance with method, the inline drainable coupler 10 is provided intervening and coupled to a first electrical conduit section 14 and a second electrical conduit section 16, as shown for example in Figure 1. Furthermore, when assembled, also as shown for example in Figure 1, a drainable conduit system is provided for connection between an electric company distribution box 22, or similar, and a meter base enclosure 18, or similar, for housing a wire 42.
[0063] Information as herein shown and described in detail is fully capable of attaining the above-described object of the present disclosure, the presently preferred embodiments of the present disclosure, and is, thus, representative of the subject matter which is broadly contemplated by the present disclosure. The scope of the present disclosure fully encompasses other embodiments which may become apparent to those skilled in the art, and is to be limited, accordingly, by nothing other than the appended claims, wherein any reference to an element being made in the singular is not intended to mean "one and only one" unless explicitly so stated, but rather "one or more." All structural and functional equivalents to the elements of the above-described preferred embodiment and additional embodiments as regarded by those of ordinary skill in the art are hereby expressly incorporated by reference and are intended to be encompassed by the present claims. Moreover, no requirement exists for a system or method to address each and every problem sought to be resolved by the present disclosure, for such to be encompassed by the present claims. Furthermore, no element, component, or method step in the present disclosure is intended to be dedicated to the public regardless of whether the element, component, or method step is explicitly recited in the claims. However, that various changes and modifications in form, material, work-piece, and fabrication material detail may be made, without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, as set forth in the appended claims, as may be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art, are also encompassed by the disclosure.
Claims (49)
1. An inline drainable coupler for intervening and coupling two sections of a conduit assembly comprising a coupler body having a lumen;
said coupler body having a first coupler end region adapted for engagement and fluid communication with an end region of a first conduit section and a second coupler end region adapted for engagement and fluid communication with an end region of a second conduit section;
said coupler body having one or more suitably sized apertures for allowing the egress of a liquid from said lumen to external said coupler body.
said coupler body having a first coupler end region adapted for engagement and fluid communication with an end region of a first conduit section and a second coupler end region adapted for engagement and fluid communication with an end region of a second conduit section;
said coupler body having one or more suitably sized apertures for allowing the egress of a liquid from said lumen to external said coupler body.
2. The inline drainable coupler for intervening and coupling two sections of conduit as defined in claim 1, further comprising one or more screening members for inhibiting the ingress of debris into said lumen through said apertures.
3. The inline drainable coupler for intervening and coupling two sections of conduit as defined in claim 2, wherein said screening member is provided as a porous fabric sheet wrapped around and encasing said coupler body.
4. The inline drainable coupler for intervening and coupling two sections of conduit as defined in claim 2, wherein said screening member is provided as a porous fabric sheet wrapped around an exterior wall of said lumen of said coupler body.
5. The inline drainable coupler for intervening and coupling two sections of conduit as defined in any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein said coupler body has a radiused bend.
6. The inline drainable coupler for intervening and coupling two sections of conduit as defined in claim 5, wherein said radiused bend is provided as substantially 45 degrees.
7. The inline drainable coupler for intervening and coupling two sections of conduit as defined in claim 5, wherein said radiused bend is provided as substantially 90 degrees.
8. The inline drainable coupler for intervening and coupling two sections of conduit as defined in any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein said one or more apertures are provided as a substantially circular bore.
9. The inline drainable coupler for intervening and coupling two sections of conduit as defined in claim 8, wherein said one or more apertures are sized between from about 0.1 cm to about 1.0 cm.
10. The inline drainable coupler for intervening and coupling two sections of conduit as defined in any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein said one or more apertures are provided as a "V"-shape.
11. The inline drainable coupler for intervening and coupling two sections of conduit as defined in claim 10, wherein said "V"-shaped apertures are provided and the inline drainable coupler is installed intervening said first conduit section and said second conduit section for running a wire through said conduit assembly in the direction of the apex of the "V".
12. The inline drainable coupler for intervening and coupling two sections of conduit as defined in any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein said first and second coupler end regions are provided as female ends for receiving therein an end portion of said first conduit section or said second conduit section, respectively.
13. The inline drainable coupler for intervening and coupling two sections of conduit as defined in any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein said first and second coupler end regions are provided as male ends for being received in an end portion of said first conduit section or said second conduit section, respectively.
14. The inline drainable coupler for intervening and coupling two sections of conduit as defined in any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein said first coupler end region or second coupler end region is provided as male end or a female end for coupling to a complementary end of said first conduit section or said second conduit section, respectively.
15. The inline drainable coupler for intervening and coupling two sections of conduit as defined in any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein said first coupler end region and/or said second coupler end region is threaded for threadably coupling to a complementary end of said first conduit section or said second conduit section, respectively.
16. The inline drainable coupler for intervening and coupling two sections of conduit as defined in any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein said one or more apertures are provided along only one longitudinal half, or less, of said coupler body.
17. Method for preventing liquid accumulation in a conduit assembly comprising:
providing an inline drainable coupler for intervening and coupling two sections of said conduit assembly, the inline drainable coupler comprising a coupler body having a lumen;
said coupler body having a first coupler end region adapted for engagement and fluid communication with an end region of a first conduit section and a second coupler end region adapted for engagement and fluid communication with an end region of a second conduit section;
said coupler body having one or more suitably sized apertures for allowing the egress of a liquid from said lumen to external said coupler body;
installing said conduit assembly between an electrical distribution feed zone and a meter base enclosure; and positioning said inline drainable coupler point on a travel path between said electrical distribution feed zone and said meter base enclosure.
providing an inline drainable coupler for intervening and coupling two sections of said conduit assembly, the inline drainable coupler comprising a coupler body having a lumen;
said coupler body having a first coupler end region adapted for engagement and fluid communication with an end region of a first conduit section and a second coupler end region adapted for engagement and fluid communication with an end region of a second conduit section;
said coupler body having one or more suitably sized apertures for allowing the egress of a liquid from said lumen to external said coupler body;
installing said conduit assembly between an electrical distribution feed zone and a meter base enclosure; and positioning said inline drainable coupler point on a travel path between said electrical distribution feed zone and said meter base enclosure.
18. The method as defined in claim 17, wherein the inline drainable coupler is positioned near a low point on the travel path.
19. The method as defined in either one of claim 17 or claim 18, wherein said inline drainable coupler further comprises one or more screening members for inhibiting the ingress of debris into said lumen through said apertures.
20. The method as defined in any one of claims 17 to 19, wherein said screening member is provided as a porous fabric sheet wrapped around and encasing said coupler body.
21. The method as defined in any one of claims 17 to 19, wherein said screening member is provided as a porous fabric sheet wrapped around an exterior wall of said lumen of said coupler body.
22. The method as defined in any one of claims 17 to 21, wherein said coupler body has a radiused bend.
23. The method as defined in claim 22, wherein said radiused bend is provided as substantially 45 degrees.
24. The method as defined in claim 22, wherein said radiused bend is provided as substantially 90 degrees.
25. The method as defined in any one of claims 17 to 24 wherein said one or more apertures are provided as a substantially circular bore.
26. The method as defined in claim 25, wherein said one or more apertures are sized between from about 0.1 cm to about 1.0 cm.
27. The method as defined in any one of claims 17 to 24, wherein said one or more apertures are provided as a "V"-shape.
28. The method as defined in claim 27, further comprising the step of installing said inline drainable coupler intervening said first conduit section and said second conduit section such that the apex of the "V" of the one more "V"-shaped aperture is oriented in the direction of travel for pulling a wire through said conduit assembly.
29. The method as defined in any one of claims 17 to 28, wherein said first and second coupler end regions are provided as female ends for receiving therein an end portion of said first conduit section or said second conduit section, respectively, and comprising the step of connecting the respective ends of said inline drainable coupler to said end portions of said first conduit section and said second conduit section.
30. The method as defined in any one of claims 17 to 28, wherein said first and second coupler end regions are provided as male ends for being received in an end portion of said first conduit section or said second conduit section, respectively, and comprising the step of connecting the respective ends of said inline drainable coupler to said end portions of said first conduit section and said second conduit section.
31. The method as defined in any one of claims 17 to 28, wherein said first coupler end region or second coupler end region is provided as male end or a female end for coupling to a complementary end of said first conduit section or said second conduit section, respectively, and comprising the step of connecting the respective ends of said inline drainable coupler to said end portions of said first conduit section and said second conduit section.
32. The method as defined in any one of claims 17 to 28, wherein said first coupler end region and/or said second coupler end region is threaded for threadably coupling to a complementary end of said first conduit section or said second conduit section, respectively, and comprising the step of threadably connecting the respective ends of said inline drainable coupler to said end portions of said first conduit section and said second conduit section.
33. The method as defined in any one of claims 17 to 32, wherein said one or more apertures are provided along only one longitudinal half, or less, of said coupler body and comprising the step of during installation of said inline drainable coupler, orienting said one longitudinal half downward.
34. A conduit assembly for connection between an electrical distribution feed zone and a meter base enclosure comprising:
an inline drainable coupler for intervening and coupling between a first conduit section and a second conduit section;
said inline drainable coupler having a coupler body having a lumen and a first coupler end region and a second coupler end region;
said first conduit section for connecting said electrical distribution feed zone to a first coupler end region of said inline drainable coupler; and said second conduit section for connecting a second coupler end region of said inline drainable coupler to said meter base enclosure;
said first and second coupler end regions adapted for engagement and fluid communication with an end region of said first conduit section or an end region said second conduit section, respectively;
said coupler body having one or more suitably sized apertures for allowing the egress of a liquid from said lumen to external said coupler body.
an inline drainable coupler for intervening and coupling between a first conduit section and a second conduit section;
said inline drainable coupler having a coupler body having a lumen and a first coupler end region and a second coupler end region;
said first conduit section for connecting said electrical distribution feed zone to a first coupler end region of said inline drainable coupler; and said second conduit section for connecting a second coupler end region of said inline drainable coupler to said meter base enclosure;
said first and second coupler end regions adapted for engagement and fluid communication with an end region of said first conduit section or an end region said second conduit section, respectively;
said coupler body having one or more suitably sized apertures for allowing the egress of a liquid from said lumen to external said coupler body.
35. The conduit assembly as defined in claim 34, wherein said inline drainable coupler further comprises one or more screening members for inhibiting the ingress of debris into said lumen through said apertures.
36. The conduit assembly as defined in claim 35, wherein said screening member is provided as a porous fabric sheet wrapped around and encasing said coupler body.
37. The conduit assembly as defined in claim 35, wherein said screening member is provided as a porous fabric sheet wrapped around an exterior wall of said lumen of said coupler body.
38. The conduit assembly as defined in any one of claims 34 to 37, wherein said coupler body has a radiused bend.
39. The conduit as defined in claim 38, wherein said radiused bend is provided as substantially 45 degrees.
40. The conduit assembly as defined in claim 38, wherein said radiused bend is provided as substantially 90 degrees.
41. The conduit assembly as defined in any one of claims 34 to 40, wherein said one or more apertures are provided as a substantially circular bore.
42. The conduit assembly as defined in claim 41, wherein said one or more apertures are sized between from about 0.1 cm to about 1.0 cm.
43. The conduit assembly as defined in any one of claims 34 to 42, wherein said one or more apertures are provided as a "V"-shape.
44. The conduit assembly as defined in claim 43, wherein said "V"-shaped apertures are provided and the inline drainable coupler is installed intervening said first conduit section and said second conduit section for running a wire through said conduit assembly in the direction of the apex of the "V".
45. The conduit assembly as defined in any one of claims 34 to 44, wherein said first and second coupler end regions are provided as female ends for receiving therein an end portion of said first conduit section or said second conduit section, respectively.
46. The conduit assembly as defined in any one of claims 34 to 44, wherein said first and second coupler end regions are provided as male ends for being received in an end portion of said first conduit section or said second conduit section, respectively.
47. The conduit assembly as defined in any one of claims 34 to 44, wherein said first coupler end region or second coupler end region is provided as male end or a female end for coupling to a complementary end of said first conduit section or said second conduit section, respectively.
48. The conduit assembly as defined in any one of claims 34 to 44, wherein said first coupler end region and/or said second coupler end region is threaded for threadably coupling to a complementary end of said first conduit section or said second conduit section, respectively.
49. The conduit assembly as defined in any one of claims 34 to 48, wherein said one or more apertures are provided along only one longitudinal half, or less, of said coupler body.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA3008496A CA3008496A1 (en) | 2018-06-15 | 2018-06-15 | Inline drainable conduit coupler |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA3008496A CA3008496A1 (en) | 2018-06-15 | 2018-06-15 | Inline drainable conduit coupler |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA3008496A1 true CA3008496A1 (en) | 2019-12-15 |
Family
ID=69053999
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA3008496A Pending CA3008496A1 (en) | 2018-06-15 | 2018-06-15 | Inline drainable conduit coupler |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA3008496A1 (en) |
-
2018
- 2018-06-15 CA CA3008496A patent/CA3008496A1/en active Pending
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