Patent Publication Number: US-10763654-B2

Title: Quick lock system for joining and aligning tubes, conduits and junction boxes

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Non-Provisional application Ser. No. 16/510,585 entitled “QUICK LOCK SYSTEM FOR JOINING AND ALIGNING TUBES, CONDUITS AND JUNCTION BOXES”, filed Jul. 12, 2019. U.S. Pat. No. 16,510,585 is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Non-Provisional application Ser. No. 16/004,238 entitled “QUICK LOCK SYSTEM FOR JOINING AND ALIGNING TUBES, CONDUITS AND JUNCTION BOXES”, filed Jun. 8, 2018, which is a continuation of U.S. Non-Provisional application Ser. No. 15/667,493, entitled “QUICK LOCK SYSTEM FOR JOINING AND ALIGNING TUBES, CONDUITS AND JUNCTION BOXES,” filed Aug. 2, 2017, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,014,673, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Non-Provisional application Ser. No. 15/183,511 entitled “QUICK LOCK SYSTEM FOR JOINING AND ALIGNING TUBES, CONDUITS AND JUNCTION BOXES”, filed Jun. 15, 2016, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,672,041, which claims priority from claims priority from U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/181,753 filed Jun. 18, 2015. Further, U.S. Non-Provisional application Ser. No. 15/183,511 is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Non-Provisional application Ser. No. 14/547,059, entitled “Quick Lock Tube Securing System,” filed Nov. 18, 2014, now issued U.S. Pat. No. 9,647,432, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes, and which claims priority from U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/906,214, filed Nov. 19, 2013. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     Embodiments of the invention are directed to elements, devices, tools, and systems comprised of the same that are used to connect tubes or conduits during the construction of buildings, server farms, and power distribution centers, and more specifically, to a system of elements for use in connecting one or more tubes or conduits in an efficient and practical manner by use of the inventive quick lock connector. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Hollow-tubed systems are used in a variety of applications. For example, Electrical Metallic Tubing (“EMT”) conduit systems include elongate, thin walled, non-threaded tubes that are usually formed of metal. EMT tubes are used to enclose electrical wires therein. Similar systems include Rigid Metal Conduit (“RMC”), Galvanized Rigid Conduit (“GRC”), Intermediate Metal Conduit (“IMC”), Polyvinyl Chloride (“PVC”) conduit, Armored Cable (AC (BX)), Metal Clad Cable (MC), Flexible Metal Cable (FMC), Flexible Metallic Liquid Tight Conduit and Non-Metallic Liquid Tight Conduit. Although often formed from metal, other materials such as plastic, fiber or fired clay can be used as well. 
     A typical EMT, RMC, or other conduit system usually includes electrical junction boxes, a plurality of EMT tubes, and other electrical or mechanical elements that are joined together with fittings or couplings to provide a continuous protected chamber for receiving and enclosing electrical wires and their connections. These fittings or couplings join the tubes to the junction boxes, and also may be used to join two or more sections of tubes together. 
     Currently, fittings or couplings for joining certain of these elements have important limitations that render conventional approaches inadequate and/or less than optimal. For example, one common fitting includes a connector body with an internally threaded compression nut screwed onto a body of a fitting having external male threads. The end portion of a tube/conduit is received within the compression fitting, and a worker must tighten the compression nut to compress a steel gland ring that is pre-installed between a compression fitting body and compression nut in order to secure the tube within the fitting. While useful in theory, in practice this design has disadvantages. For example, workers can over-tighten the compression nut sufficiently to strip both female and male threads of a compression fitting; this usually leaves a tube not secured or not locked in the desired position created by the compression fitting. Alternatively, a worker can under-tighten a compression nut to the male threads of a compression fitting, thereby allowing the tube to become disconnected over time and expose the wiring that within the tube. 
     In some cases, when an exterior thread on a compression fitting body or interior thread on a compression nut are not threaded or machined properly, the exterior threads on the compression fitting body and interior threads on the compression nut will not engage or mate well. This misalignment can cause scraping along the entire compression fitting or a loose connection, thereby allowing the tube/conduit to become disconnected over time and expose the wiring within the tube. 
     Another common type of fitting includes a body with a perpendicularly mounted threaded set-screw. The end portion of a tube is slidably received within the body of a set screw fitting, and a worker must tighten the set screw to secure the tube within the fitting. While satisfactory in principle, in practice, workers may over tighten the set-screw, thereby placing excessive pressure on a localized portion of the tube. In some cases, this excessive pressure can damage or even pierce the tube. Further, over-tightening one or two set-screws can strip the female threads in the screw boss. Alternatively, a worker can under-tighten the set-screw, thereby allowing the tube to become disconnected over time and expose the wiring within the tube. 
     A typical conduit system can include hundreds of these fittings, all of which require hand tightening of each compression nut and set screw on each fitting. The labor of performing this repetitive task can increase the overall cost of a project and because of its repetitive nature, may be the source of improperly connected tubes, conduits, or junction boxes. 
     On the manufacturing side, it is necessary to make millions of the pieces that are part of these fittings; this typically requires a section of tube cut into a defined length to form a compression nut. After forming the compression nut, manufacturing workers tap each nut with internal threads. In addition to forming and adding threads to the compression nut, manufacturing a fitting requires that each nut be secured to a compression connector or to a compression coupling. Further, each compression connector or compression coupling is formed in a similar manner, with threads being formed on one end of each connector and two threads being formed on each compression coupling. The number of stages in the overall manufacturing process, combined with the associated costs in terms of material and energy is relatively high and may be difficult to justify for a less than optimal end product in some use cases. 
     Set-screw type connectors or couplings require labor to punch holes and tap threads on each screw hole, thereby increasing the cost of production. Millions of set-screw fittings and compression fittings (including the compression nuts) are currently manufactured each year. With each type of fitting being large and relatively heavy, there is a relatively large amount of energy used in the manufacture and distribution (including transportation related expenses) of these fittings. Another impact of the manufacture of conventional fittings of the types described arises because, typically, the couplings are zinc plated. Given the relatively large size of conventional couplings and the number manufactured, this means that a large amount of zinc plating is performed; this may have adverse effects on the environment. 
     Some efforts have been made to provide a snap-in securing system for joining armored MC, AC (BX) and FMC cables to junction boxes and the like. Examples of these types of systems are found in U.S. Pat. No. 3,272,539 to R. W. Asbury, Sr.; U.S. Pat. No. 3,858,151 to Paskert; U.S. Pat. No. 6,670,553 to Gretz; and U.S. Pat. No. 6,939,160 to Shemtov. Among the disadvantages of such conventional snap-in systems is that these systems cannot bear a significant weight or uncoupling force because the snap-in components are made from spring steel formed into tabs or snap clips, and these tabs or clips engage a portion of the surface of the armored MC, AC (BX), and FMC cables. As a result, in some applications such snap-in systems cannot be used on EMT, RMC, RGC or IMC conduits or tubing because the design of these taps or clips cannot prevent EMT, RMC, GRC or IMC conduits from being pulled out of the snap-in systems when a force is applied to the connectors. 
     Conventional snap-in fittings typically include a ferrule with one or more annularly mounted tabs or cantilevered snap clips extending therefrom. As mentioned, conventional snap-in systems are designed to be used on MC, AC (BX), and FMC cables; such cables are typically formed from a coil of strip metal to produce an armored exterior surface with wires or cables protected inside the armored surface. The armored exterior surface may have the shape of external threads with a relatively large gap between two threads. When the armored cables are inserted into the snap-in connectors, the tabs or clips are designed to open. The tabs or clips stick out against the ends of the armored cables and snap onto the external threads of the armored cables to prevent the cables from being pulled out of the connector. Note that the tabs or snap clips operably engage only a portion of the surface of the armored MC, AC (BX), or FMC cable(s) inserted into the connector. While these conventional systems may prevent the need for set-screws in some fittings, they can become loose over time and they fail to provide a way to assure that they are properly aligned when installed. 
     Despite the availability of several conventional forms of tubing joining systems, there remains a need for a quick-connecting tube engaging and joining system that assists in obtaining the proper alignment of each tube and operates to more evenly distribute the securing load around the entire circumference of a tube instead of to a localized region. This attachment technique provides a more secure and properly aligned method of joining two hollow tubes or conduits together and/or joining a hollow tube or conduit to a junction box or other receptacle. Note further, that by distributing the securing load around the circumference of a tube, less stress is put on the tube surface and connecting elements, thereby reducing potential sources of breakage, damage, faults, or other types of failures. 
     In addition, there remains a need for a tubing joining system that can provide effective and reliable continuity of electricity or electrical signals from a quick-lock connector to a junction box or from a quick-lock coupling to two or more sections of tubes that are part of a system of tubes, conduits, and junction boxes. 
     Further, there remains a need for a tubing joining system that includes a securing fitting that is substantially less likely to be over-tightened or under-tightened than conventional devices, but instead consistently provides a more optimal securing force at each connection point or region. This aspect operates to save time during installation, reduce the effort used in the installation process, and reduce the breakage of parts. As an additional benefit, the manufacturing and on-site installation phases for the inventive system and methods are relatively environmentally friendly compared to many conventional approaches. 
     Embodiments of the invention overcome these limitations or disadvantages of conventional systems for coupling tubes or conduits to junction boxes, either alone or in combination. 
     SUMMARY 
     The terms “invention,” “the invention,” “this invention” and “the present invention” as used herein are intended to refer broadly to all of the subject matter described in this document and to the claims. Statements containing these terms should be understood not to limit the subject matter described herein or to limit the meaning or scope of the claims. Embodiments of the invention covered by this patent are defined by the claims and not by this summary. This summary is a high-level overview of various aspects of the invention and introduces some of the concepts that are further described in the Detailed Description section below. This summary is not intended to identify key, essential, or required features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used in isolation to determine the scope of the claimed subject matter. The subject matter should be understood by reference to appropriate portions of the entire specification of this patent, to any or all drawings, and to each claim. 
     In one embodiment, the invention is directed to a hollow-tube connecting system that includes a connector element for securing a hollow tube to a structure (such as a junction box) or a coupling for securing two hollow tubes together. In one embodiment, the connector has a body with a tapered interior edge and an opening for receiving the tube there through. Further, in some embodiments, a locking wedge or locking element with a tapered exterior surface is located within the connector body. In one disclosed embodiment, the locking wedge or element may have an opening and a plurality of spaced apart ball bearings inlaid in preformed apertures on the locking wedge; the ball bearings and apertures function to restrict movement of the tube after it is received through the opening. 
     In one embodiment, the inventive system may include a guiding ring element that functions to assist in aligning an inserted tube with the locking wedge or locking element. In some embodiments, the guiding ring or another element may include a force supplying or resilient element (such as a coil spring, for example) that functions to provide a force which acts to push the locking wedge or element into the proper position. 
     In some embodiments, when the tube is inserted into the connector opening, the tube encounters the wedge or element and the plurality of spaced apart ball bearings engage on the exterior surface of the tube. Further, the ball bearings move on the tapered interior edge of the body, when the tube moves inward to the larger interior diameter of the tapered body. When a force is applied so as to urge the tube towards the smaller interior diameter of the tapered body, the resulting reaction force on the tube (caused by the engaged plurality of ball bearings on the exterior surface of the tube and by ball bearings moving toward the smaller diameter of the tapered interior surface on the connector body) which acts to hold/position/lock the tube in the connector. When the reaction force reaches a specific point (referred to herein as having reached the self-locking point), the annular tube is locked inside the locking wedge and connector body in the proper alignment. 
     By way of further explanation, in some embodiments, when an annular tube is inserted into the tapered interior wall of the connector body, as the tube moves toward the larger diameter of the tapered connector body, it moves relatively freely; however, when it moves toward the smaller diameter of the tapered connector body, the increased reaction force (arising from movement of the ball bearings on the tapered interior surface of the connector body to a smaller diameter) operates to lock and hold the tube in place in the connector. 
     In some embodiments, the inventive system may include an element or elements that function to permit a user to disengage, disconnect or un-lock an annular tube or section of conduit that has previously been inserted into a connector, coupler or locking element. In one embodiment, the un-lock element or elements include or comprise an annular button, plug, or surface with a hollow central region. The inside diameter of the hollow central region of the disconnect or un-lock element or mechanism is an open region through which a tube or conduit may pass. A lip or ridge on one end of the disconnect or un-lock element or mechanism permits a pressure (such as applied by a user&#39;s fingertips) to “push” the disconnect or un-lock element or mechanism inward against the biasing force provided by the resilient element, internal spring or other biasing material in the connector or coupler. When such a pressure is applied, the disconnect or un-lock element or mechanism moves slightly inward, thereby pushing the locking element(s) of the connector or coupler inward and permitting the release of the previously locked tube or conduit. In the absence of such an applied pressure, a tube or conduit may be inserted through the central region of the disconnect or un-lock element or mechanism and into the locking element or edge of the coupler or connector. 
     In some embodiments, the disclosed system may include an element or elements that function to prevent water, moisture and, in some cases, air to pass through a connector or coupler into a junction box or into another piece of conduit or tube when a conduit or tube is inserted into a connector or coupler body. In one embodiment, the system includes a substantially raintight plenum ring or element that comprises an annular body or surface with a hollow central region and a circular shape lip that extends toward the center of the ring. The plenum may be situated inside a hollow space of a guiding ring. The inside diameter of the hollow central region of the guiding ring is an open region through which a tube or conduit may pass. A lip or ridge on one side of the plenum element extends over a plurality of spaced apart protrusion or tabs of the guiding ring toward the center of guiding ring and facilitates a sealing or wrapping around the exterior wall of a conduit or tube when the tube passes through the tapered connector, coupler body and the hollow central region of the guiding ring and the lip of the plenum ring. When such a sealing or wrapping occurs, the exterior wall of an inserted conduit or tube is tightly sealed or wrapped. 
     The resilient flat surface on the lip side of the plenum of ring fits snugly against the interior wall of the connector body, including the interior wall of the base structure when the base structure and tapered connector body are assembled together. The lip seals or wraps around the exterior wall of the inserted conduit or tube and the resilient surface of the plenum ring seals the interior wall of the connector body and interior wall of the base structure. This leads to sealing the interior connector body and the coupler body and substantially prevents allowing water, moisture or air to pass through the connector body into a junction box or from a coupler body into another piece of conduit or tube. 
     Note that in some embodiments or use cases, two of the inventive connectors may be formed on ends of a base structure to construct an inventive quick-lock coupling that uses substantially the same locking system as described with regards to the connector; this coupling may be used to connect and lock two pieces of tubing, with one piece locked and aligned to each side of the coupling. Thus, by use of an embodiment of the inventive connector or coupling, a hollow tube may be connected to another tube or to a junction box or similar element. 
     Other objects and advantages of the present invention will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art upon review of the detailed description of the present invention and the included figures. 
    
    
     
       FIGURE DESCRIPTIONS 
       Embodiments of the invention in accordance with the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings, in which: 
         FIG. 1  is an exploded, isometric view of a quick lock fitting in accordance with an embodiment of the invention, showing a tube operably secured thereto and a possible connection to a junction box. 
         FIG. 2  is an exploded, isometric view of the quick lock fitting of  FIG. 1  showing a possible orientation relative to a tube. 
         FIG. 3  is an enlarged, isometric view of the quick lock fitting of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 4  is cross-sectional view of the quick lock fitting of  FIG. 3 , taken along line  4 - 4  of  FIG. 3 . 
         FIG. 5  is an isometric view of a tube engaging tapered, annular locking wedge in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 6  is a cross-sectional view of the tube engaging tapered, annular locking wedge of  FIG. 5  taken along line  6 - 6  of  FIG. 5 . 
         FIG. 7  is an exploded, isometric view of a tube engaging tapered, annular locking wedge in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention showing a possible resilient ring operably secured thereto. 
         FIG. 8  is a cross-sectional view of the tube engaging tapered annular locking wedge of  FIG. 7  taken along line  8 - 8  of  FIG. 7 , and shown with the resilient ring secured thereto. 
         FIG. 9  is an isometric view of a threaded base with collar in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 10  is a cross-sectional view of the threaded base with collar of  FIG. 9  taken along line  10 - 10  of  FIG. 9 . 
         FIG. 11  is an isometric view of a base in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 12  is an isometric view of a base with two opposed collars in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 13  is an isometric view of an alternative possible base with two opposed collars in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 14  is an isometric view of a tapered, annular connector body in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 15  is a cross-sectional view of the connector body of  FIG. 14  taken along line  15 - 15  of  FIG. 14 . 
         FIG. 16  is an isometric view of an annular base forming a portion of the annular connector body of  FIG. 14 . 
         FIG. 17  is an isometric view of the tapered portion of the connector body of the annular connector body of  FIG. 14 . 
         FIG. 18  is a cross-sectional view of the quick lock fitting of  FIG. 3 , showing a possible alignment of a tube (shown in broken lines) being inserted into the quick lock fitting. 
         FIG. 19  is a cross-sectional view of the quick lock fitting of  FIG. 18 , showing a possible attached position of the tube (shown in broken lines) in the quick lock fitting, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 20  is an isometric view of a quick lock coupling system in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 21  is a cross-sectional view of the quick lock coupling system of  FIG. 20  taken along line  21 - 21  of  FIG. 20  and showing a possible orientation relative to two tubes (shown in broken lines). 
         FIG. 22  is an exploded view of the quick lock coupling system of  FIG. 20 . 
         FIG. 23  is an isometric view of an alternative possible configuration of three quick lock fittings of the type shown in  FIG. 1  on a T-shaped member. 
         FIG. 24  is an isometric view of a possible configuration of two different sized quick lock connectors of the type shown in  FIG. 1  on a threaded rigid coupling. 
         FIG. 25  is an exploded view of a possible configuration of two of the same sized quick lock connectors of the type shown in  FIG. 1  on a threaded rigid coupling. 
         FIG. 26  is a cross-sectional view of the quick lock fitting of  FIG. 1  with an optional insert received therein for operably receiving the threaded end of a tube (shown in broken lines), such as an Armored Cable AC(BX), Metal Clad Cable (MC), Flexible Metal Cable (FMC) or the like. 
         FIG. 27  is an isometric view of the insert received within the quick lock fitting shown in  FIG. 26 , with a portion broken away to show certain internal detail. 
         FIG. 28  is a cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of a quick lock fitting in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 29  is a cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the inventive quick lock fitting, showing a possible alternative wedge structure with spring-biased bearings operably received therein, and a possible insert received within the fitting for receiving a threaded conduit. 
         FIG. 30  is a cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the quick lock fitting showing the possible alternative wedge structure of  FIG. 29 , and an alternative possible insert received within the fitting for receiving a hollow cylinder therein. 
         FIG. 31  is a cross-sectional view of the insert of  FIG. 30 . 
         FIG. 32  is a cross-sectional view of the insert of  FIG. 29 . Note that the inner portion of alternative insert  FIG. 29  may be formed in a manner so as to have internal threads or external threads. 
         FIG. 33  is a cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the inventive quick lock fitting having a straight entrance and a sealing ring secured at the entrance; the figure shows the wedge structure of  FIG. 29  operably receiving a tube within the fitting, with the sealing ring at the entrance of the connector being used to make the connector substantially water tight when receiving a tube into the locking wedge and chamber of the connector. 
         FIG. 34A  is an exploded isometric view of a possible configuration of multiple of the inventive quick lock fittings joined to a curved tube, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 34B  is an exploded isometric view of an alternative possible configuration of multiple of the inventive quick lock fittings joined to a curved tube, with the tube having engaging flanges at its distal ends for operably engaging the housing of the fitting. 
         FIG. 35  is a cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the inventive quick lock fitting, showing the wedge structure of  FIG. 29  and a second alternative possible insert received within the fitting for receiving a threaded cylinder therein. Note that the hollow threaded cylinder shown in  FIG. 35  is externally threaded, and that the hollow threaded cylinder may be externally threaded or internally threaded. 
         FIG. 36  is a top view of the alternative wedge structure shown in  FIG. 29 . 
         FIG. 37  is a bottom isometric view of the alternative wedge structure shown in  FIG. 29 . 
         FIG. 38  is a top isometric view of the alternative wedge structure shown in  FIG. 29 . 
         FIG. 39  is an exploded isometric view of an alternative possible configuration for joining an embodiment of the inventive quick lock fitting to a curved tube, and a threaded section for connecting to a junction box or the like. 
         FIG. 40  is a cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the inventive quick lock tube securing system, showing an alternative locking element structure with spring-elements mounted to a guiding ring and extending toward a bearing. 
         FIG. 41 a    is a cross-sectional view of an example of a guide ring with a mounting hole and mounting taps. 
         FIG. 41 b    is a cross-sectional view of an example guide ring with mounted spring elements that may be used as part of an embodiment of the inventive quick lock tube securing system. 
         FIG. 42  is a cross-sectional view of a coil spring in a neutral position, positioned with one end against the bottom surface of a guiding ring. 
         FIG. 43  is a cross-sectional view of a fully assembled quick lock tube securing system with a coil spring in a neutral position, positioned on top of a bearing and positioned against the bottom of a guiding ring, and that may be used as part of an embodiment of the inventive quick lock tube securing system. 
         FIG. 44  is a cross-sectional view showing an alternative locking element structure with a bearing including a plurality of spaced apart rotatable bearings secured in the slots of a bearing structure wall, where the structure to hold the bearings can be fabricated from metal, plastic or porcelain. 
         FIG. 45  is a cross-sectional view of a connector body with a straight portion at the entrance to the body. 
         FIG. 46 a    is a cross-sectional view of an annular ferrule that may be secured on top of the straight portion at the entrance of a connector body of the type shown in  FIG. 40 . 
         FIG. 46 b    is a cross-sectional view of a sealing sleeve or gasket with a lip formed on the interior wall, and into which an annular ferrule may be inserted. 
         FIG. 47  is a cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the inventive quick lock tube securing system, showing an alternative locking element structure with a coil spring, wherein the coil spring is neutrally positioned between a guiding ring and one or more bearings. 
         FIG. 48  is a view of an element that may be incorporated into an embodiment of the inventive quick lock tube securing system in order to facilitate the removal or disengagement (disconnection or un-locking) of a tube or conduit from a connector, coupler or locking element; 
         FIG. 49  is a cut-away view of a connector, coupler or locking element that includes the disconnection or un-locking element of  FIG. 48  and which may be used in an embodiment of the inventive quick lock tube securing system; 
         FIG. 50  is an exploded view of the elements or components of an embodiment of the inventive quick lock tube securing system which includes the disconnection or un-locking element of  FIGS. 48 and 49 ; 
         FIG. 51  is a view of an element (termed a “plenum ring” herein) that may be incorporated into an embodiment of the of the quick lock tube securing system described herein to substantially prevent water, moisture and air from passing through a connector or coupler body into a junction box or into another piece of conduit or tube, when a conduit or tube is inserted into connector body or a coupler body; and 
         FIG. 52  is a cut-away view of a connector or coupler or locking element that includes the plenum element of  FIG. 51  and the unlocking element of  FIGS. 48-49 , and which may be used in an embodiment of the quick lock tube securing system described herein. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     The subject matter of embodiments of the present invention is described herein with specificity to meet statutory requirements, but this description is not intended to limit the scope of the claims. The claimed subject matter may be embodied in other ways, may include different elements or steps, and may be used in conjunction with other existing or future technologies. This description should not be interpreted as implying any particular required order or arrangement among or between various steps or elements, except when the order of individual steps or arrangement of elements is explicitly described and indicated as being required. 
     Embodiments of the invention will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof, and which show, by way of illustration, exemplary embodiments by which the invention may be practiced. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy the statutory requirements and convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. 
     One or more exemplary embodiments of the inventive rapid connecting system  40  for connecting tubes  42  to each other and/or to other structures (such as a junction box or receptacle) using an inventive quick lock connector  44  are shown in  FIGS. 1-52 , and described in further detail herein. 
     General Construction 
     Referring to  FIG. 2 , an embodiment of the inventive connector  44  has a connector body  46  with an opening  48  sized to slidably receive a tube or conduit  42  therethrough, and a tapered interior surface  50  that narrows towards the opening  48 . Inside the body  46  is a mating tapered locking wedge  52  that may have, for example, six (or in other embodiments, more or less) roller bearings  100  (preferably in the form of spherical steel balls), inlaid in spaced-apart preformed apertures  102 . Locking wedge  52  also includes or features an opening  54  for snugly receiving and engaging the exterior surface of tube  42 . Locking wedge  52  also includes or features an annular guide ring  60  that operably engages the end of the tube  42  received therein. Note that in use, locking wedge  52  is positioned at least partially interior to connector body  46  and that as tube or conduit  42  is inserted, roller bearings  100  move or rotate within their respective apertures  102 . 
     Typically for most conventional uses, connector  44  may be fabricated with materials suitable for use with a conventional conduit tube, including but not limited to: EMT, RMC, GRC, Rigid, IMC, PVC and armored Cable; AC (BX), Metal Clad Cable; MC and Flexible metal cable; FMC and Flexible Metallic Liquid Tight Conduit, and Non-Metallic Liquid Tight Conduit. 
     In operation or use, the end of tube  42  is engaged with or secured to locking wedge  52  and guide ring  60  by an installer; this may be accomplished by inserting the end of tube  42  into opening  48  in connector body  46 . The roller bearings  100  inlaid on the mating tapered locking wedge  52  engage the exterior surface of tube  42 . As they engage the exterior surface and in response to insertion of tube  42 , the roller bearings  100  are caused to move along a portion of tapered interior surface  50  of connector body  46 . This acts to prevent tube  42  from being moved backwards (such as might occur in an attempt to remove it from connector  44 ) to the smaller diameter regions of body  46 . In some embodiments and uses, connector body  46  may be integrated with a base structure  70  to form a quick lock connector unit, having the capability to be secured to another component  72 , such as a junction box or receptacle (as shown in  FIG. 1 ). 
     Connector Body with Tapered Interior 
     As shown in  FIGS. 1, 2 and 14-17 , the body  46  of the inventive connector defines a housing that encircles the end of tube or conduit  42  and provides or defines a chamber  79  for receiving and enclosing (at least in part) other components of connector  44  therein. Tube  42  preferably has a circular cross-section (although it may have other forms of cross-sections, such as elliptical) and opening  48  in connector body  46  is circular (or other suitable shape, such as elliptical) to slidably receive the end of tube  42  there through. 
     The interior surface  50  of connector body  46  is tapered in a manner so as to become smaller as it approaches opening  48 , and body  46  is tapered in a manner so as to become bigger as it approaches base engaging portion  80 . In some embodiments, the taper angle is preferably between 3 to 25 degrees, inclusive. More preferably, for some applications, the taper angle is between 8 to 12 degrees, inclusive. 
     As noted, connector body  46  includes a base engaging portion  80 , positioned opposite opening  48 . Base engaging portion  80  includes attachment elements or features for securing body  46  to base structure  70 , such as by means of compression, pressing, rolling, riveting, threading, rotating or the like. A shoulder  82  may be provided in base engaging portion  80  for operably receiving and engaging guide ring  60  therein, and connecting to base structure  70 . Shoulder  82  may form an engaging portion on the connector body; shoulder  82  may be compressed or pressed by machine and dies to wrap over the collar of base  70  to make the two pieces connect together. A guiding ring may be installed in the shoulder of the connector and just behind the base structure. 
     Connector body  46  is typically formed with substantially rigid materials suitable for the particular type of tubing being used. For example, in cases where the tubing is EMT tubing, the body may be formed with suitable tubing that can properly function with EMT tube or the like. Note that connector body  46  is not required to be formed from tubing and may be formed (in whole or in part) from substantially rigid materials such as zinc die cast, malleable iron cast, gray iron or ductile iron cast, or plastic molding. 
     Referring to  FIG. 33 , the fitting provides straight or substantially parallel entrances for receiving the distal end of the hollow tube  42 . If desired, an annular insulating sleeve  800  may be operably secured around the tube  42  and the housing of the fitting as shown, to form a watertight seal protecting the interior components from rain and the like. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 40 and 47 , in some embodiments, an annular ferrule  58  (as also shown in  FIG. 46( a ) ) may be secured on top of the straight or substantially parallel entrance  77  (as also shown in  FIG. 45 ) of a connector body  46 . This straight or substantially parallel entrance may provide better alignment of an inserted hollow tube  42  with one or more of the locking elements and guiding ring of an embodiment or embodiments of the invention. Such an entrance also provides a straight portion on the connector body  46  to which the annular ferrule  58  may be secured. 
     In this or another embodiment, in addition to (or in some cases instead of) the annular ferrule  58 , a sealing sleeve or gasket  806  (as shown in  FIGS. 40 and 46 ( b )) with an interior lip may be installed on top of the annular ferrule, with the annular ferrule being inserted into the interior lip of the sealing sleeve or gasket. Note that the interior lip on the sealing sleeve or gasket and the raised collar flange formed at the entrance of the sealing sleeve or gasket may operate or function to prevent water or rain from entering connector body  46 ; this element or set of elements can therefore be used to effectively seal the connector and substantially prevent the entry of rain or other sources of water, liquid, or moisture. 
     Tapered Locking Element/Wedge 
     As shown in  FIGS. 2, 4-8, and 18-19 , tapered locking element or wedge  52  is used to receive, align, and fix in place tube  42 . Locking wedge  52  may be formed of resilient material (such as rubber, plastic or the like), or may be formed of rigid material such as metal (e.g., steel, iron, zinc, copper, brass, cast iron or malleable iron or the like). Wedge  52  has a tapered exterior surface  90  and may have a plurality of spaced apart roller bearings that are preferably substantially spherical balls and are preferably made of steel, and that operably engage and mate with the tapered interior surface  50  of the connector body  46  (as shown in  FIGS. 14 &amp; 15 ). A through opening  92  (as shown in  FIG. 5 ) extends through the tapered locking wedge  52  to define an annular locking wedge wall  94 . The opening  92  is sized and configured to receive the end of the tube  42  as it is slid or moved through the opening  92 . The tapered locking wedge  52  may be formed in one piece or in multiple pieces of resilient material such as rubber, plastic or the like, or a more rigid material such as metal (including steel, zinc, copper, brass, cast iron or malleable iron or the like), and the associated bearings. 
     A plurality of spaced apart bearings  100 , such as rigid ball bearings, may be rotatably secured within apertures  102  in the wall  94  of the locking wedge  52  (as shown in  FIG. 5 ) such that the bearings extend inwardly to engage the exterior surface of the tube  42 . Bearings  100  are able to move against the interior wall  50  of connector body  46  as tube  42  is inserted and slid though the opening  92  in the locking wedge  52 . Preferably, the bearings  100  include steel balls with each ball spaced an equal distance apart from the other balls along the circumference of the locking wedge wall, as shown in  FIG. 6 . The diameter of each steel ball is preferably between 0.5 millimeter (mm) and 10 millimeter (mm), inclusive. The bearing with a tapered exterior wall can be formed as part of the tapered locking wedge or as a separate piece working as a part of the tapered locking wedge. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 7 and 8 , the tapered locking wedge  52  may have a base end  210  and an opposite tapered end  212 ; an optional resilient expansion ring  214  may be operably received and placed within a groove  216  in the base end  210  of the locking wedge  52 . In an alternative embodiment, the expansion ring  214  includes an opening  218  to allow the ring  214  to be compressed sufficiently to permit insertion into the groove. The ring is preferably substantially circular and formed of spring steel or the like. When released, it seeks to expand towards its neutral position, thereby urging the base end of the locking wedge  52  toward the connector body  46  and further holding the locking wedge in place within the connector body  46 . In some cases, the resilient materials are not firm or hard enough to maintain the opening of the wedge sufficiently to receive a tube into the wedge. To prevent this problem, an expansion ring just inside the edge of opening of wedge may be used to hold the opening of the wedge in a round and open position in order to receive tube. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 29, 30, 33, and 35-38 , an alternative embodiment of a wedge  52 ′ is shown. With similar elements to those in the previously disclosed wedge  52  being like numbered, the alternative embodiment of a wedge includes a plurality of spaced-apart elongate apertures  502  appropriately sized to operably receive a resilient member (such as a spring  500  or the like) therein and at least one bearing  100 . The resilient member urges the bearing to a neutral position toward the tapered end of the wedge. In this embodiment, when tube  42  enters the opening of locking wedge  52 , the exterior wall of tube  42  provides a compression force or pressure on the bearings (such as the steel balls or other form of bearing). In response, the bearings push the resilient materials (such as a spring  500  or the like) to move towards the larger diameter regions of the connector body. Due to the resilient nature of a coil spring, the material “pushes” or attempts to spring back when the bearings push the resilient materials toward the larger diameter regions of the connector body. When a user attempts to pull tube  42  out of the locking wedge toward the opening  48  of connector body  46 , the resilient material will act to push the bearings to move with the tube  42  toward the opening  48  of connector body  46  (and thus towards the smaller diameter regions of the tapered walls). 
     Referring to  FIGS. 41( a ), 41( b ) ,  42 ,  43  and  44 , another alternative embodiment of a locking element  52 ″ that may be used in an embodiment of the invention is shown. With similar elements to those in the previously disclosed locking element  52  being like numbered in these figures, the alternative embodiment of a locking element  52 ″ is formed from multiple pieces and different types of structures or elements. Alternative embodiment of a locking element  52 ″ includes a plurality of spaced apart bearing(s)  100 , such as rigid ball bearings, which may be rotatable and secured (i.e., rotatably secured) within slots  202  formed in the wall  104  of the locking element  52 ″ (as shown in  FIG. 44 ), where the bearings extend inwardly to engage the exterior surface of an inserted tube  42 . 
     In this alternative embodiment, there are multiple possible sources of a force that may be used to urge a bearing or bearings into a desired position. The force supplying and/or resilient material(s) may include: (a) coil spring  230  with one end positioned against the bottom of the guiding ring (as shown in  FIG. 42 ) and one end able to be positioned against the top of the bearings (as shown in  FIG. 43 ); or (b) spring elements  220  mounted on the bottom of a guiding ring  60  (as shown in  FIGS. 40, and 41 ( b )). In each case, the force supplying and/or resilient element(s) operate to urge the bearing(s) to a neutral position toward the tapered end of the locking element/wedge. 
     In this embodiment or embodiments, and referring to  FIGS. 40, 43 and 47 , when tube  42  enters the opening of the locking element  52 ″, the exterior wall of tube  42  provides a compression force or pressure on the bearings (such as the steel balls or other form of bearing). In response, the bearings push/urge the resilient materials (such as a coil spring  230  or spring element  220 ) to move towards the larger diameter regions of the connector body. Due to the nature of coil spring  230  or spring element  220  (or other resilient element), the force supplying or resilient element(s) provide a resisting force that pushes or attempts to return to its neutral position when the bearings push the resilient materials or elements toward the larger diameter regions of the connector body. Thus, when a user attempts to pull tube  42  out of the locking element  52 ″ toward the opening  48  of connector body  46 , the resilient materials or elements act to push the bearings to move with the tube  42  toward the opening  48  of connector body  46  (and thus towards the smaller diameter regions of the tapered walls of the connector body). This functions to grip, “lock” or otherwise hold the tube in the connector body. 
     It may be appreciated that when a tube is inserted within the opening in the locking element/wedge, the resilient members allow the bearing to deflect back and out of the way toward base structure  70 , thereby facilitating insertion of the tube. However, the resilient members toward the base of the connector urge the bearings toward the tapered opening, thereby wedging the bearings between the housing and the tube as previously described. 
     Guide Ring 
     As shown in  FIGS. 2, 18, 19 , &amp;  30 , the annular guide ring  60  provides stability and support for the tube  42 . The ring  60  is preferably formed of a durable material such as metal, plastic or the like, and it includes a ring opening  110  for snugly receiving the end of the tube therethrough. 
     A plurality of spaced apart protrusions  112  or tabs extend from the ring  60  towards the opening  110 . The protrusions  112  may be angled away from the opening  48  in the connector body  46  so that they allow the tube  42  to be inserted through the ring opening  110  and grasp or constrain the tube  42  should it be moved in a perpendicular direction away from the opening in the connector body  46 . In one embodiment, preferably between 4 and 12 protrusions  112  are spaced equal distance around the circumference of the guide ring  60  as shown. Note that by contacting and grasping the exterior surface of tube  42  through a plurality of spaced apart protrusions  112  or tabs that extend from the ring  60 , this and other embodiments of the inventive connecting system and elements provide relatively superior electrical continuity and low electrical resistance between connector  44 , tube  42  and a connected structure  72  ( FIG. 1 ) or the like. This feature is an important one for an electrical connector or coupling, especially during circumstances such as an electricity leak or a short between a wire and a power line. 
     The outer diameter of the guide ring  60  is appropriately sized to be snugly received within the base engaging portion  80  of the connector body  46 . Accordingly, the ring opening  110  remains aligned along the longitudinal centerline of the connector  44  and the opening  48  in the body  46 . The process of inserting an end of a tube through the opening  48  in the body  46 , then the opening  92  in the locking wedge, and then the opening  110  in the guide ring  60  urges the tube  42  into proper alignment along the longitudinal centerline of the connector  44 , until encountering tube stop  123  ( FIGS. 2, 9, 10 , &amp;  19 ) of base structure  70  ( FIGS. 2 and 9 ). 
     Referring to  FIG. 41( a ) , an alternative embodiment of guide ring  60  is shown; in this embodiment, on the bottom flat surface  111  of guide ring  60 , mounting hole and mounting taps  113  may be formed for receiving spring elements  220  (as shown in  FIG. 41( b ) ). When spring elements are mounted in this manner with (or to) guide ring  60  and the spring elements extend toward the top of bearing(s)  100 , the spring elements operate or function as the previously referred to “resilient material” of the locking element. 
     Base Structure 
     As shown in  FIGS. 2, 9 and 10 , the base structure  70  includes a connector body-engaging portion  120  and an object-engaging portion  122 . A shoulder  82  of the base structure  70  is operably secured to the base engaging portion  80  of the connector body  46 , thereby holding the tapered locking wedge  52  and guide ring  60  in place within the chamber  79  (which is shown in  FIGS. 14 and 15 ). The tube stop  123  ( FIG. 12 ) on the base structure  70  is formed by dies to receive the end of tube  42 ; after tube  42  passes through guiding ring  60 , the tube stop  123  prevents the end of tube  42  from being inserted any further into the connector. 
     Referring to  FIG. 40 , and to  FIGS. 29, 30, 33, 35 and 43 , an alternative embodiment of the inventive system may include a rubber or plastic gasket  71  installed or positioned in between a locknut and base engaging portion  80  of the connector body  46 . When an installer takes off a locknut from a quick lock securing system, the rubber or plastic gasket  71  has one side positioned against the flat surface of an electrical junction box and one side positioned against the base-engaging portion  80 ; the gasket functions as a sealing ring or gasket and provides a seal to prevent water or rain from entering the electrical junction box through the “knock out” portion or section of the electrical junction box. 
     The object-engaging portion  122  can be configured to enable mounting to a variety of structures (such as junction boxes or other containers). For example, the object engaging portion  122  can include a threaded element  130  and locking nut  132  for securing the connector  44  through a hole or opening  134  in a conventional electrical junction box  72  ( FIG. 1 ) or the like, as shown in  FIG. 1 . When the object engaging portion of  122  does not include thread elements  130  and a lock nut  132 , it can operate to secure the connector  44  by inserting the object engaging portion  122  into a EMT tube, RMC, GRC, IMC and by welding or riveting element  122  to a EMT tube, RMC, RGC or IMC. This can be used to fabricate a piece of EMT tube, RMC, RGC Flexible Metallic Liquid Tight Conduit and Non-Metallic Liquid Tight Conduit or IMC into a pre-fabricated connector or coupling attached conduit, which is then ready to connect to another piece of tube or conduit. 
     Alternatively, the object-engaging portion  122  can include two or more connector body engaging portions  120 , as shown in  FIGS. 20-25 , thereby allowing at least two connectors  44  to be operably secured thereto; this permits two tubes  42  to be joined together to make a quick lock coupling, as shown in  FIG. 22 . In addition, and referring to  FIG. 25 , a threaded Rigid Coupling  150  can be used to operably secure the object engaging portions  122  of two base structures  70 , thereby joining two connectors  44  together. The die formed tube stop  123  ( FIGS. 12, 20 &amp; 21 ) at the center of the object engaging portion  122  of two base structures  70  functions to stop ends of tubes  42  from further movement after the two tubes pass through respective guiding rings  60 . 
     It can be appreciated that the tube  42  used need not be substantially straight. For example, the tube  42  can be T-shaped  71  ( FIG. 23 ), U-shaped, or elbow shaped as shown in  FIGS. 34A, 34B and 39 . The tubes can include flanges and protrusions for operably engaging the housing as shown in  FIG. 34B , or the tube can have a flange at one end and surfaces for engaging other components, such as a housing for engaging the flange of a threaded portion as shown in  FIG. 39 . In addition, a connection coupling  180  having different diameters on each end can be used to join two different sized connectors  44  together, as shown in  FIG. 24 . 
     Threaded Tube Attachment Structure 
     Referring to  FIGS. 26 &amp; 27 , a threaded tube attachment structure  300  that allows a threaded tube  42  to be operably secured to a connector  44  is shown, where exemplar threaded tubes include armored cable and metal clad cables and the like. The attachment structure  300  includes an annular insert  302  that has a smooth outer surface  304  that is sized to be operably connected to the connector  44  as previously described. The interior surface  306  of the insert  302  includes protrusions  308  or threads (not shown) that are constructed (e.g., sized) to operably engage the mating threads  310  of a threaded tube. Note that depending upon the use case and fabrication, threaded tube  42  may be externally threaded or internally threaded. 
     In a typical situation or use, an installer can mount a threaded tube  42  to a connector  44  by first inserting the annular insert  302  into the connector  44  and then threading the threads  310  of the tube  42  into the annular insert  302  in the connector  44 . Alternatively, an installer can first thread the annular insert  302  onto an end of the threaded tube  42  and then insert the threaded tube  42  with the annular insert  302  installed into a connector  44 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 29-32 , alternative possible inserts  302 ′,  600  and  700  are shown. These inserts operably engage either disclosed wedge  52  or wedge embodiment  52 ′, and are shown operably engaging wedge  52 ′ in  FIGS. 29, 30 and 33 . Referring to  FIG. 31 , an elongate insert  600  having a fitting engaging surface for operably engaging the fitting and an interior wall portion for operably engaging the interior surface of a hollow tube is shown. Angled protrusions  606  may extend from the interior wall portion. The protrusions are angled to deflect and allow a tube to be inserted past them but extend (or return to their normal position) to resist removal of the tube once the tube operably engages the protractions. 
     Similarly,  FIG. 32  shows a similar insert  700  that includes threaded portions for operably engaging the threads of a threaded tube, as best shown in  FIG. 35 . A resilient portion may be positioned toward the base and between the interior and exterior walls of the insert  700 , thereby allowing a threaded tube  42 ′ to move or be slightly misaligned while still remaining secured within the fitting. 
     Example Process for Fabricating Component(s) of the Inventive Connector/Coupler 
     An example method of fabricating one or more of the components of the inventive connector using a machining process is now described. Note that other methods, such as molding, may also be used to form one or more of these components. 
     The connector body  46  is shown being formed from a section of cylindrical tube  46   a  in  FIG. 16 . The cylindrical tube  46   a  is first machined to form a tapered segment  46   b , and then the shoulder is machined into the tapered segment  46   b  ( FIG. 17 ) to form the final connector body  46  ( FIGS. 14 &amp; 15 ). Similarly, the base structure  70  may be formed from a second section of cylindrical tube  70   a  ( FIG. 11 ). The second section of cylindrical tube  70   a  is machined to put one ( FIG. 9 ) or two opposite ( FIGS. 12 &amp; 13 ) collars on the end(s), defining a collared cylinder  70   b  (as shown in  FIG. 13 ). Tube stops  123  ( FIG. 12 ) may be machined into the collared cylinder to define a partially machined component  70   c  (as shown in  FIG. 12 ). Next, the attachment structures such as threads (or the like) are machined into the partially machined component to form the base structure  70 . 
     The guide ring  60  may be formed from a substantially planar blank that has been cut in to a predefined shaped, and then pressed to define the guide ring  60  with protrusions  112 , as shown and previously described. 
     Use and Operation of an Embodiment or Embodiments of the Inventive System 
     Having described the elements of one or more embodiments of the present invention, their use and function are described in additional detail in the following. An installer inserts an end of a hollow tube  42  into the opening  48  in the connector body  46  and pushes the end of the tube  42  into the opening  46 . The tube  42  operably engages a plurality of spaced apart bearings (preferably steel spherical balls) on the locking element or wedge  52  (or one of its alternative embodiments, identified as  52 ″ or  52 ′ in the figures); at the same time, the bearings inlaid in locking wedge  52  engage and move along or on the tapered interior surface of body  46 , while tube  42  continues to extend through the opening  92  in the locking wedge and the opening  110  in the guide ring  60 . The protrusions  112  in the guide ring  60  hold the ring  60  onto the tube and the end of tube  42  stops at tube stop  123  formed inside base structure  70 . When tube  42  enters tapered connector body  46  (which preferably has an 8 to 12 degree tapered interior wall) and locking wedge  52  (or one of its alternative embodiments), the steel ball bearings on wedge  52  engage on the exterior surface of tube  42 . If the wedge  52  is secured within the fitting, the resilient members allow the bearings  100  to move out of the way toward the base structure of the fitting when the tube is being inserted. 
     When steel ball bearings on locking wedge  52  move on the tapered interior surface of body  46 , it creates a friction force between the steel ball bearings and the tapered interior wall of body  46 , which also creates and increases a reaction force on the exterior surface of tube  42 , thereby holding the tube  42  in the connector  44 . 
     Note that if a force is applied in a direction that would normally act to pull tube  42  out of connector  44  (or toward opening  92  of locking wedge or element  52  and/or opening  48  of tapered connector body  46 ), then the steel ball bearings move on the tapered interior surface of connector body  46  (along with tube  42 ) backward toward the smaller diameter of tapered connector body  46 . The resulting friction force created by this movement causes a reaction force to compress against the exterior surface of tube  42 ; when the steel ball bearings move to the self-locking position, or when the reaction force reaches a point to have enough compression against the exterior surface of tube  42  and the tapered interior surface of connector body  46 , then the annular tube  42  is locked in position inside of the connector  44 . When a force is applied in this direction, it functions to try to pull tube  42  out of connector  44 ; however, the plurality of steel ball bearings function to “lock” or hold tube  42  inside locking wedge  52 . 
     As described, in a typical use, an installer may insert the end of a tube  42  into a connector  44 , with the guide ring  60  and tapered locking wedge or element  52 . When the tube  42  moves inwardly to a larger diameter on the tapered interior surface of connector body  46 , steel ball bearings inlaid in the apertures of locking wedge  52  apply a restraining or holding force that is distributed throughout the circumference of the tube  42 , thereby holding the tube  42  in place. If tube  42  is attempted to be moved backward (i.e., withdrawn) to a smaller diameter of the tapered interior surface of connector body  46 , the steel ball bearings function to apply a locking force in locking wedge  52  that holds or locks tube  42  in place. 
     As described herein, there is more than one type of locking element or wedge (such as those identified as element  52 ,  52 ′, or  52 ″ in the figures) that may be used as part of the inventive system; in some embodiments, a wedge is formed of bearings and a resilient material, such as rubber or plastic. In some embodiments, a wedge is formed of bearings (that may be subjected to a biasing force by a spring or other structure) and a rigid material, such as steel, iron, zinc, copper, brass, cast iron or malleable iron. In the type of wedge formed of bearings and resilient material(s) (which may be constructed in one piece or in multiple pieces), the wedge is able to move inside the connector body (such as moving forward toward the larger diameter side of the connector body or moving backward toward the opening  48  in the body of connector  46 ). Note that the ability to undergo movement arises from the resilient material used as part of the wedge or locking element. 
     When tube  42  enters the opening of locking element/wedge  52  (or other embodiment), the exterior wall of tube  42  provides a compression force or pressure on the bearings (such as the steel balls or other form of bearing). In response, the bearings push the resilient materials (such as rubber, plastic, coil spring or spring elements) to move towards the larger diameter regions of the connector body. Due to the resilient nature of rubber, plastic, coil spring or spring elements, the material “pushes” or attempts to spring back when the bearings push the resilient materials toward the larger diameter regions of the connector body. When a user attempts to pull tube  42  out of the locking wedge toward the opening  48  of connector body  46 , the resilient material will act to push the bearings to move with the tube  42  toward the opening  48  of connector body  46  (and thus towards the smaller diameter regions of the tapered walls). 
     Referring to  FIGS. 29, 30 and 33 , another alternative possible wedge  52 ′ is shown; note that the elements in common with the previously disclosed wedge  52  are like numbered. The alternative wedge embodiment includes a plurality of spaced-apart elongate apertures  502  sized to operably receive a resilient (or biasing) member, such as a spring  500  or the like therein, and at least one bearing  100 . The resilient member urges the bearing to a neutral position toward the tapered end of the wedge. 
     When tube  42  is inserted into opening  48  in body of connector  46 , the end of tube  42  enters the opening of locking wedge or element  52 ′; this puts pressure on the bearing which causes the bearing  100  to push the resilient member (such as a spring  500 ) forward toward the larger diameter regions of the tapered walls of the wedge and connector body. The bearing  100  is moving on both the tapered interior wall of connector body  46  and the exterior wall of tube  42 , toward the larger diameter regions of the connector body  46 . 
     In this alternative type of locking element or wedge, the elongate  502  apertures are substantially hollow inside with the spring  500  sitting inside the pre-formed elongate apertures on the wedge and holding the bearings inside the apertures. When tube  42  enters the opening of locking wedge  52 ′, it applies a compressing force on the bearings  100  sitting inside the apertures  502 . In response, the bearings move forward toward the larger diameter regions of the connector body  46 . This occurs because the springs are coil springs under pressure or an applied force; as a result, the springs will compress and make space for the bearings to move within the elongate apertures. 
     When an attempt is made to remove the tube from the wedge (or if the tube is subjected to movement from another source, such as a lateral force), the bearings and springs will move with the applied force, with the springs inside the apertures moving toward the opening  48  of connector body  46 . 
     In this embodiment of the locking element or wedge, the bearings and springs may move slightly inside the connector in both directions; they can move slightly toward the larger side of the connector body or move toward the opening of the connector body (which is the smaller side of the connector body). At the same time, note that as the tube  42  enters the opening of locking wedge  52  (or one of the other embodiments of the locking wedge or element), the exterior wall of tube  42  becomes and remains engaged with the bearings (e.g., steel balls). The steel balls or similar element(s) in the locking wedge move along the exterior surface of tube  42  and the tapered interior wall of connector body  46 . The resilient materials or springs inside the apertures function to support the bearings and permit the movement slightly forward or backward. Movement of the tube thus causes the bearings (i.e., steel balls) to move forward or backward because the exterior of the tube is engaged (in contact and maintained in contact) with these steel balls. As a result, the wedge itself can move slightly inside the connector body. In a sense, the wedge body is primarily a holding container for the wedge elements or components (bearings and resilient materials, or bearings and springs). 
     When there is no tube being pushed into the connector, the bearings are in their neutral position inside the connector body. When a tube is pushed in, the bearings move toward the larger diameter regions of the tapered connector body (the tapered connector body is an important feature of the inventive system; it provides a mechanism for the locking wedge to be able to operate). The bearings or steel balls are pre-installed in/on the locking wedge; when a pushing force is applied, the wedge moves toward the larger diameter regions of the connector body, which has more space or room for the bearings/wedge to fit. However, if a pulling force is applied, then the bearings (steel balls) on the wedge move toward the opening (smaller diameter) of the connector body and the reaction force causes the wedge to become fixed or held in the connector body; this results because when the bearings move closer on the tapered interior wall of the connector body and the exterior surface of the tube to the reduced diameter regions (nearer to the opening of the connector body), the larger the reaction force that is created. 
     In some embodiments, the connector body may be formed using dies to have a tapered interior wall, with a tapering angle of between 3 and 25 degrees. This means that inside the connector body, the walls are not vertical or straight; as an example, moving from the opening of the connector body, the tapered interior wall may go from having a 3-degree angle to a larger one further inside the connector body. Thus, the tapered interior wall of the connector body is getting larger moving inward from the opening of the connector body to the base structure. When a tube is pushed into the connector, the bearings will naturally be forced to move toward the larger opening areas of the tapered connector body. 
     When a pulling or removing force is applied to an inserted tube, the bearings move toward the smaller diameter regions of the tapered connector body. When the pulling out force has caused the bearings to move (with the help of resilient materials or springs) to the smallest tapered interior diameter or smallest position that the bearings (steel balls) are able to move, substantially no further bearing motion is possible. Because the bearings are prevented from further motion by the tapered interior wall of the connector body and the exterior surface (wall) of tube, the bearings operate to lock the tube inside the connector body. 
     One way to describe the behavior of the inserted tube in conjunction with the locking wedge is by considering the locking force as a reaction force; when the reaction force from the pressure against the bearings/wall from the force attempting to remove the tube from the connector exceeds the removal force, then the tube is locked inside the connector body. This will occur (in theory) at the point where the bearings cannot fit any closer to the connector body opening because the tapered interior wall of the connector body and/or the exterior surface of a tube are prevented from being compressed any further on the elongated apertures because of the action of a resilient material or spring. Guiding rings  112  are for alignment and provide better continuity between the tube and the connector or between two connectors. 
     As noted, the direction of movement of the bearings or the wedge is forward or backward (i.e., into or out from the connector body), and its motion is along the tapered interior wall of the connector body and the exterior surface of the tube. When the reaction force reaches a point where it is greater than the pull out force (which is when the bearings on the wedge reach their furthest position on the tapered interior wall of the connector body or the smallest diameter of the tapered interior wall it can reach), the force locks the tube inside the connector body. 
     In general, an embodiment of the inventive coupler or connector includes a body with a tapered interior and having an opening for a tube, and in which is positioned a locking wedge, that is in some embodiments correspondingly tapered to fit inside the body. The wedge includes an annular region in which are one or more apertures. Positioned in each aperture is a bearing, typically a ball bearing. As described, in some embodiments, the annular ring may be formed of a resilient material, such as rubber or plastic or the like. The annular ring of resilient material is subjected to a compressive force when a tube is inserted into the connector body and forced against the bearings, thereby causing the bearings to move towards the larger diameter regions of the body/wedge. The resilient nature of the annular ring means that it will attempt to spring back or decompress, thereby applying a force against the inner wall of the body and the outer wall of the tube. When an attempt is made to remove the tube, the bearings may move slightly but will become lodged against the inner wall of the tapered connector body and the exterior wall of the tube and in effect “locked” in place between the inner wall and the outer surface of the inserted tube. This acts to hold the tube and wedge in place in the connector body. 
     In a similar fashion, if the annular ring is made of a rigid or a more rigid material, then an embodiment of the locking element or wedge may include an elongate aperture (or a plurality of apertures) in which is arranged a coil spring and a bearing attached to the spring. In this embodiment, when a tube is inserted, it engages the bearing and forces the spring to compress. This permits the tube to enter the locking wedge; however, if a force is applied in an attempt to remove the tube, the spring acts to push the bearing back into its neutral position. However, because the bearing had moved to a region of the tapered body in which the diameter was larger in order to accept the tube, the locking wedge and bearing are now substantially locked in place. This operates to hold the tube in the locking wedge and hence in the connector body. In general, either the (a) resilient material and bearing, or the (b) rigid material, spring, and bearing in combination with the tapered wedge/annular-ring/tapered interior wall of the connector body provide a mechanism for permitting the tube to be inserted into the connector and held there in a manner which prevents removal of the tube. 
     It can be appreciated that the combination of connectors  44 , tubes  42  and component engaging structures described herein provide a tube securing system (such as an electrical conduit assembly system) to be quickly, efficiently, cost effectively and easily constructed without the need for securing compression nuts, set screws or the like. This increases the utility of the inventive system, as well as reducing possible assembly or alignment errors. 
     One skilled in the relevant art will recognize that numerous variations and modifications may be made to the configurations described above without departing from the inventive aspects described herein. For example, as shown in  FIG. 28 , the connector  44  may include an elongated connector body  46  to define a larger chamber therein. A spacer  400  may be positioned within the elongated chamber along with the tapered locking wedge  52  so as to secure the wedge  52  in place within the chamber and prevent it from moving when the tube  42  is inserted. Alternatively, the spacer  400  can be integrally formed or molded with the wedge  52 . Such modifications and additional embodiments can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention, as defined by the appended claims. 
     In some embodiments, the inventive system may include an element or elements that may be used to facilitate the removal of a previously inserted tube or conduit from a connector, coupler or locking element. This element or mechanism for disengaging, disconnecting or unlocking a tube or conduit from a coupler or connector provides users with a way to remove a tube or conduit that has been mistakenly, improperly or inadvertently connected to a coupler or connector. The unlock mechanism described herein enables the safe removal of such a tube or conduit without the need to cut the tube or conduit or otherwise damage or waste material. 
       FIG. 48  is a view of an element  480  that may be incorporated into an embodiment of the inventive quick lock tube securing system in order to facilitate the removal or disengagement (i.e., disconnection or un-locking) of a tube or conduit from a connector, coupler or locking element. In one embodiment, the unlock element or mechanism  480  is of an annular shape and includes a substantially cylindrical body  482  with a central opening or passage  484 , and a ridge, lip, step, surface or rim  486  to which a pressure or releasing force may be applied. Body  482  includes a lip or raised portion  488  which acts to exert a force on the resilient element, spring or other biasing element in a connector or coupler. 
       FIG. 49  is a cut-away view of an example of a connector, coupler or locking element  490  that includes the disconnection or un-locking element of  FIG. 48  and which may be used in an embodiment of the inventive quick lock tube securing system. As shown in the figure, disengaging or unlocking element  480  is inserted into the chamber of the tapered connector body  492 , typically by being tamped or pushed into connector body  492  by a wood or rubber hammer through opening  493  of connector body  492 . In one embodiment, an inner lip or step of the unlock mechanism (for example, element  488  of  FIG. 48  or element  496  of  FIG. 49 ) has a flat surface, and is positioned so as to result in a small space between it and bearing  495  of the locking system or locking wedge. Note that in the absence of an applied force or pressure, unlock mechanism  480  remains in a neutral position in the tapered connector body  492 , with a portion  491  positioned outside of connector body  492 . Note that the exterior edge of the inner lip or step (element  488  of  FIG. 48  or element  496  of  FIG. 49 ) of unlock button or mechanism  480  is slightly larger than the inner diameter of the entrance or opening  493  of the tapered connector body  492 . This functions to prevent the unlock mechanism  480  from slipping out of tapered connector body  492 . 
     In operation, when an electrician or contractor uses their finger(s) to apply pressure or a force on the ridge, lip, step, surface or rim  486  of unlock mechanism  480 , the exterior edge of the inner lip or step  488 / 496  of mechanism  480  moves inward and pushes against bearings  495 , causing locking system or locking wedge  494  to move toward the larger diameter end of tapered connector body  492 . This causes the locking or retaining force exerted by locking system or locking wedge  494  on the exterior wall or surface of a previously inserted tube or conduit, and on the interior tapered wall of connector body  492 , to be reduced or released. As a result, an electrician or contractor can then safely remove the tube or conduit from a quick lock connector or a quick lock coupling without damage to the tube or conduit (i.e. without cutting off a tube or conduit from a quick lock connector or coupling). 
     When an electrician or contractor removes his or her fingers (and the resulting inward pushing force) from the outer rim or step  486  of unlock button  480 , this removes the applied force on the unlock mechanism. When the applied force is removed, this also removes the force or pressure on the flat surface of the inner step  496  of the unlock mechanism  480 . As a result, the resilient element, spring coil, spring system, or other form of biasing  497  of the locking system or locking wedge will exert a force pushing back on the unlock mechanism  480  in a direction towards the smaller diameter region or direction of the tapered connector body  492 . Note that in this situation, the unlocking or disconnecting element  480  is returned to and stays in its neutral position in tapered connector body  492 . This will permit a tube or conduit to be inserted into central opening or passage  484  of mechanism  480  and engaged with the locking system or locking wedge. 
       FIG. 50  is an exploded view of the elements or components of an embodiment of the inventive quick lock tube securing system  550  which includes the disconnection or un-locking element of  FIGS. 48 and 49 . As shown in the figure, an example embodiment of the quick lock securing system  550  includes the unlock or disconnect mechanism  480 , a tapered housing  552 , an annular element and bearing  554 , a resilient element, spring, spring system or other biasing element  556 , a guide ring  558  and an element  560  for coupling the quick lock system to an electrical junction box, etc. 
     In some embodiments, the inventive system may include an element or elements that may be used to seal or substantially prevent water, moisture and in some cases air to pass through a connector or coupler body into a junction box, or into another piece of conduit or tube when a conduit or tube is inserted into a connector body or a coupler body. This resilient element or elements, termed a “plenum” or “plenum ring” herein include a lip or ridge that extends toward the center of a guiding ring to substantially seal or wrap around the exterior wall of an inserted conduit or tube. The plenum or plenum ring includes a resilient surface that fits snugly against the interior wall of the connector body and base structure when the connector body and base structure are assembled together. The plenum ring substantially prevents water, moisture and even possibly air from passing through the connector body into a junction box or coupler body or into another piece of conduit or tube. The plenum element described herein enables a user to have a connector or coupler that includes a substantially raintight element when working in the construction of buildings or other industrial uses that require or would benefit from outdoor applications (such as for transport and protection of electrical cables, fluids, gases, air, etc.). By integrating a raintight plenum ring with the previously described quick lock tubing security system without changing the elements of that design, the new feature enables end users to have the flexibility to meet many of the complex codes and requirements in today&#39;s construction, industrial and commercial fields. 
       FIG. 51  is a view of an element  680  (termed a “plenum ring” herein) that may be incorporated into an embodiment of the of the quick lock tube securing system described herein to substantially prevent water, moisture and air from passing through a connector or coupler body into a junction box or into another piece of conduit or tube, when a conduit or tube is inserted into connector body or a coupler body. In one embodiment, plenum element  680  is of an annular shape and includes a substantially cylindrical body  683  with a central opening or passage  685 , and a ridge, lip, or step  681 , and surfaces or rims  682  and  684  which are resilient and substantially waterproof. Body  683  includes lip or raised portion  681  which acts to substantially seal or wrap around the exterior wall of an inserted conduit or tube. Body  683  includes resilient surface or rim  684  which fits snugly against the interior wall of a connector body, including the interior wall of a base structure that connects a connector body to a junction box. The material from which plenum ring is formed may be rubber, plastic, or other resilient material. 
       FIG. 52  is a cut-away view of an example of a connector, coupler or locking element  690  that includes the plenum ring element of  FIG. 51  and the unlocking element of  FIGS. 48-49 , and which may be used in an embodiment of the quick lock tube securing system described herein. Note that  FIG. 52  illustrates an embodiment in which both the plenum ring and the unlocking element are shown, but that the unlocking element is an optional feature in some embodiments. That is, one embodiment includes the plenum ring but not the unlocking feature, while another embodiment includes both the plenum ring and the unlocking feature. 
     As shown in the figure, plenum element  680  is inserted into the hollow space of a guiding ring  694 , with interior wall  680 ′ against one interior wall of the hollow backside of guiding ring  694 . Guiding ring  694  is assembled in the chamber of the tapered connector body  695 , with the insertion of a plenum element into the hollow space of the guiding ring before the assembly of connector body  695  and base structure  693 . 
     In one embodiment, an inner lip, ridge or step of the plenum element (for example, element  681  of  FIG. 51 ) has a rim surface, and fits snugly around the exterior wall of conduit or tube  699  when the conduit or tube is inserted into a connector body and passes through the guiding ring and moves toward the end stop inside base structure  693 . Note that the interior or inner diameter of the inner lip or step (element  681  of  FIG. 51  and element  691  of  FIG. 52 ) of plenum element  680  is slightly smaller than the exterior or outer diameter of a conduit or tube  699  that is inserted into the tapered connector body  695 . This prevents water, moisture and in some cases air from passing through the space or gap between the lip or step of the plenum element and the exterior wall of a conduit and tube into a junction box through the connector body, or into another piece of conduit or tube through a coupler. Note that the resilient surface (element  684  of  FIG. 51  and element  692  of  FIG. 52 ) of plenum element  690  is positioned against the interior wall  696  of connector body and interior wall  693 ′ of base structure  693  when the connector body and base structure are assembled together. By snugly fitting the space between the interior wall of the connector body and the interior wall of a base structure, the resilient surface of the plenum element prevents water, moisture and in some cases air from passing through a connector body into a junction box or through a coupler into another piece of conduit or tube. 
     In an example use, and to describe the operation of the elements illustrated in  FIG. 52  (including the optional unlocking element), an electrician or contractor inserts a conduit or tube  699  into the connector body  695  and the tube or conduit passes through an optional unlocking element (illustrated in  FIGS. 48-49 ), through bearing or locking element  698 , spring or spring element  697 , guiding ring  694  and plenum element  680 . Lip, ridge or step  691  of plenum element  680  contacts the end stop inside the base structure. The exterior wall  699  of conduit or tube has a larger outer diameter than the inner diameter of lip or step  691  of the plenum element. The larger outer diameter or larger exterior wall  699  of conduit or tube applies pressure or a force on the lip, ridge or step  691  of the plenum element. The plenum element lip becomes positioned around the exterior wall  699  of the inserted conduit or tube. The resilient exterior surface or rim  692  of plenum element  680  is positioned against interior wall  693 ′ of base structure and interior wall of connector body  696  when they are assembled together and provides a watertight and in some cases airtight seal between the resilient surface of plenum element and the interior wall of tapered connector body  695  and interior wall of base structure  693 ′. 
     The two locations of a watertight, and in some cases, airtight seal between the lip, ridge and step of plenum element  680  and exterior wall  699  of an inserted conduit or tube and between the exterior of the resilient surface of plenum element  680  and an interior wall of connector body  696  and interior wall of base structure  693 ′ creates a watertight, and in some cases, airtight environment inside a connector or a coupler body. As a result, an electrician or contractor can then safely use a quick lock connector or a quick lock coupling in an environment that requires watertight or airtight construction. 
     As mentioned,  FIG. 52  also illustrates an embodiment in which both a plenum ring  680  and the unlocking element of  FIGS. 48-49  are included. With a plenum ring  680  positioned inside guiding ring  694  of quick lock connector  695 , note that plenum  680  does not prevent a connector  695  or coupler from including an un-locking element  711  or disconnection element (as described with reference to  FIGS. 48-49 ). In this case, after plenum ring  680  is installed inside guiding ring  694  and tapered connector body  695 , when a tube or conduit  699  enters tapered connector body  695  the tube passes through locking element  698  and resilient element  697 , guiding ring  694  and plenum ring  680  and then reaches an end stop inside base structure  693 . If needed, an electrician or a contractor can remove or pull the tube or conduit  699  out of tapered connector body  685  by pressing flat rim  712  of un-locking element  711 . In this case, the force created by the finger of an electrician or a contractor pushing flat surface  714  of un-locking element  711  acts to push the locking element  698  and resilient element  697  toward the larger diameter of connector body  695 , resulting in releasing or reducing the locking force on tube  699 . 
     All references, including publications, patent applications, and patents, cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each reference were individually and specifically indicated to be incorporated by reference and/or were set forth in its entirety herein. 
     The use of the terms “a”, “an” and “the”, and similar referents in the specification and in the following claims are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The terms “having,” “including,” “containing” and similar referents in the specification and in the following claims are to be construed as open-ended terms (e.g., meaning “including, but not limited to,”) unless otherwise noted. Recitation of ranges of values herein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value inclusively falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”) provided herein, is intended merely to better illuminate embodiments of the invention and does not pose a limitation to the scope of the invention unless otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as essential to each embodiment of the present invention. 
     Different arrangements of the components depicted in the drawings or described above, as well as components and steps not shown or described are possible. Similarly, some features and sub-combinations are useful and may be employed without reference to other features and sub-combinations. Embodiments of the invention have been described for illustrative and not restrictive purposes, and alternative embodiments will become apparent to readers of this patent. Accordingly, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above or depicted in the drawings, and various embodiments and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the claims below.