Outer sheath / buffered tube type cable slitting machine

Abstract

A cable sheath slitting tool includes opposing first and second tool frame members, a pair of opposing blades, and first and second trays, wherein at least a portion of the tool frame members is movable toward and away from each other, the blades are fixed to the respective tool frame members, the blades having blade tips extending toward each other and being movable toward and away from each other, and the first and second trays are respectively fixed to the first and second tool frame members, each of the first and second trays including a tray cavity, wherein when the tool is in a closed position, a cable is secured in the cavity, and the blades are positioned to slit the cable, wherein in the closed position, the portions of the tool frame members are facing each other.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a cable sheath slitting machine for use in close proximity to transmission strands in cables. Background Technology

[0002] Currently available adjustable blade slitting machines have many moving parts and require users to adjust the blade depth for each cable size. Some of these tools have a single V-block for positioning and orienting the cable parallel to or 90 degrees relative to the blade to allow for longitudinal or circumferential cuts. Some tools have rotating blades, allowing a fixed V-block to be used in both cutting directions. Because the tools use universal V-blocks, the end user must adjust both the upper and lower blade depths. The V-blocks allow for different cable sizes but lack fixed height limits. As a result, end users need to be careful not to squeeze the tool too tightly. If squeezed too tightly, the cable will be trapped between the opposing V-blocks, increasing friction during cutting. While blade adjustment provides versatility, end users need to be very precise to set the depth correctly. It is also important that the top and bottom blades be adjusted evenly. This will be very difficult if the end user attempts a mid-span cut without knowing the ideal depth. Even when setting the stripper head, errors are possible. Setting it too shallow will prevent cutting, while setting it too deep will damage the internal fiber tube. This tool is not ideal for end users who want repeatable and extremely safe tools for their specific cable applications, and requires a higher level of skill to use.

[0003] Another set of tools currently available is the fixed-blade slitting machine. These tools have different channels sized for the cable's outer diameter. Aligned within these channels are blades with a fixed depth related to the cable wall thickness being applied. Each channel requires a pair of blades for top and bottom cuts. Some tools have longitudinal and circumferential cutting channels, with the blades rotated 90 degrees for different cutting actions. These tools are bulky and require many blades. The blade depth can be precisely set for each channel, but the number of channels is limited due to the overall size and cost constraints of the tool.

[0004] Fixed-blade tools can be categorized into locking and non-locking tools. Locking tools require the end user to use a latch or bar to secure the tool around the tube. The drawback of this style of tool is that it is forcibly opened during use. Because the latch will always require a certain amount of clearance to function properly, there will always be a limited amount of looseness. This leads to inaccuracies in the overall diameter and blade setting. This will result in slits failing to fully penetrate the sheath. These tools may struggle with multiple cable loading operations and require repeated opening and closing of the latch, especially when the tool has both circumferential and slit channels. Additionally, the end user needs to align the cable with the correct channel, which can be difficult because channel dimensions can be very close, and it's hard to verify that the cable is aligned and installed in the correct channel. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In view of the problems and shortcomings of the prior art, one object of the present invention is to provide a cable sheath cutting tool that does not require adjustment for cables of a specific size.

[0006] Another object of the present invention is to provide a cable sheath cutting tool having multiple tool trays for cutting the sheaths of cables of various sizes.

[0007] Other objects and advantages of the invention will become apparent in part, and will be fully apparent from the description.

[0008] Fiber optic cables come in many different configurations and outer sheath sizes. Access to the inner fiber optics, and thus the cable, is required through slits and circumferential cuts that penetrate the sheath. Conventional tools for midspan and stripping applications can be difficult to use and inaccurate. Some tools require adjustable blade depth, which can be difficult to set correctly and repeatably. Other tools have a series of channels where a single, integrated blade is set to a specific depth. These tools rely on blades on opposite sides to pierce and cut the sheath wall in a 180-degree opposing manner. Some tools can only perform slits or circumferential cuts. Other tools offering both options require a different set of blades and channels for each cutting option. This invention is based on fiber optic cable tools, but the application can be extended to other forms of cable or conduit.

[0009] The slitting tool according to the invention uses a pivoting chassis with a pair of fixed blades in upper and lower housings. A series of replaceable trays can be mounted, tailored to specific cable diameters and sheath thicknesses. These trays not only provide longitudinal and rotational guide channels but also feature blade protrusions for precise cutting depth. The tool is suitable for mid-span and stripping applications.

[0010] The slitting tool provides a new tool platform that allows for repeatable and precise circumferential and longitudinal slitting in the outer sheaths of various cables without the need for blade adjustment.

[0011] The above and other objectives, which will be apparent to those skilled in the art, are achieved in this invention, which relates to a cable sheath slitting tool comprising: opposing first and second tool frame members, wherein at least a portion of the tool frame members is movable toward or away from each other. The tool includes a pair of opposing blades and first and second trays, the blades being fixable to the respective tool frame members, the blades having blade tips extending toward each other and being movable toward and away from each other, the first and second trays being respectively fixable to the first and second tool frame members, each of the first and second trays including a tray cavity, wherein, when the tool is in a closed position, a cable is secured within the cavity, positioning the blades to slit the cable, wherein, in the closed position, the portions of the tool frame members are toward each other. The tool may include a pivot pin, wherein one end of each frame member is rotatable about the pivot pin, and opposing ends of each frame member are movable toward and away from the opposing frame member. When the tool is in the closed position, the inner surfaces of each frame member can be positioned at an angle to each other, and the first and second trays include a bottom surface and a top surface, the bottom surface being positioned against a recess in the tool frame member, and the top surface being at an angle to the bottom surface so that the top surfaces of the first and second trays are parallel to each other when the tool is in the closed position. The first and second trays can be removable and can be replaced by third and fourth trays having circumferential diameters and longitudinal concave diameters different from those of the first and second trays. The first and second trays are used for a first cable having a first diameter, while the third and fourth trays are used for a second cable having a second diameter different from the first diameter. The first and second trays can be removable and can be replaced by third and fourth trays having different tray heights than those of the first and second trays. The first and second trays are used for a first cable having a first sheath thickness, while the third and fourth trays are used for a second cable having a second sheath thickness different from the first diameter. The first angle between the top surface of the first and second trays and the bottom surface of the first and second trays can be different from the second angle between the top surface of the third and fourth trays and the bottom surface of the second and third trays. The tool may include first and second concave circumferential surfaces and first and second longitudinal surfaces, the first and second concave circumferential surfaces being spaced apart from each other across the tray cavity for guiding the cable when cutting in a circumferential direction around the diameter of the cable, and the first and second longitudinal surfaces being spaced apart from each other in a direction perpendicular to the circumferential surfaces for guiding the cable when cutting along the length of the cable.The tool may include first and second magnets respectively fixed to the first and second frame members, and first and second metal elements respectively fixed to the first and second trays, wherein the first magnet removably fixes the first tray to the first frame member, and the second magnet removably fixes the second tray to the second tray member. The tool may include first and second tool base ends, wherein the first and second trays are fixable to a first end of the tool base, and a second end of the tool base is offset from the tool's centerline axis, allowing the cable to extend unobstructed through the entire tool when inserted into it for longitudinal cutting. The tool may include a rotatable latch knob for locking the tool in a closed position. The latch knob can be used to secure the tool in a closed position for storage. At the end of the tool opposite to the tool end that secures the first and second trays, a latching knob is rotatably secured to the first or second tool frame member. The latching knob has an annular edge including a flat surface on the annular edge, the flat surface being capable of engaging with a portion of the other of the first or second tool frame members. The tool may include a rotatable latching knob for locking the tool in a closed position, wherein the latching knob is variably adjustable for securing the tool in the closed position regardless of the depth of the trays. The blade is removably secured to the first and second frame members.

[0012] Another aspect of the invention relates to a method for a slitting tool, the method comprising: providing opposing first and second tool frame members, a pair of opposing blades, and first and second trays, wherein at least a portion of the tool frame members is movable toward and away from each other, the blades are fixable to the respective tool frame members, the blades having blade tips extending toward each other and being movable toward and away from each other, the first and second trays being respectively fixable to the first and second tool frame members, each of the first and second trays including a tray cavity, wherein, when the tool is in a closed position, a cable is fixable in the cavity, and the blades are positioned to slit the cable, wherein, in the closed position, the portions of the tool frame members are facing each other. The method includes: providing a cable; ensuring that the first and second tool frame members are in an open position; placing a tube or cable having an outer sheath in one of the first or second trays; and moving the first and second tool frame members to the closed position, thereby causing the blades extending inward from each tray to pierce the outer sheath of the cable. The method includes: moving the cable until a desired cut is formed in the cable sheath; moving the first and second tool frame members to the open position; and removing the slit cable from the tray. The first and second trays can be replaced with third and fourth trays having different tray depths and different concave surface diameters than the first and second trays; and the method may include: selecting first and second trays for insertion into the first and second tool frame members, the tray selection being based on the diameter of the cable and the thickness of the outer sheath of the cable; and the method may include: selecting a desired tray pair, and after ensuring that the first and second tool frame members are in the open position, securing the selected trays to the first and second frame members. The first and second trays may include first and second concave circumferential surfaces and first and second longitudinal surfaces, the first and second concave circumferential surfaces being spaced apart from each other across the tray cavity for guiding the cable when slicing in an circumferential direction around the diameter of the cable, the first and second longitudinal surfaces being spaced apart from each other in a direction perpendicular to the circumferential surfaces for guiding the cable when slicing along the length of the cable, wherein the first and second circumferential surfaces secure the cable in a direction perpendicular to the first and second longitudinal surfaces. The step of placing a cable with an outer sheath in one of the first or second trays may include: placing the cable with an outer sheath in the first and second circumferential sections of the first or second tray; and moving the cable until the desired cut is formed in the cable sheath includes: rotating the cable until the circumferential cut is formed in the cable. The step of placing a cable with an outer sheath in one of the first or second trays may include: placing the cable with an outer sheath in the first and second longitudinal sections of the first or second tray; and moving the cable until the desired cut is formed in the cable sheath includes moving the cable longitudinally.

[0013] Another aspect of the invention relates to a cable sheath slitting tool comprising opposing first and second tool frame members, wherein at least a portion of the tool frame members is movable toward and away from each other. The tool includes a pair of opposing blades and first and second trays, the blades being fixable to the respective tool frame members, the blades having blade tips extending toward each other and being movable toward and away from each other, the first and second trays being respectively fixable to the first and second tool frame members, each of the first and second trays including a tray cavity, wherein when the tool is in a closed position, a cable is secured within the cavity, positioning the blades to slit the cable, and in the closed position, the portions of the tool frame members are facing each other. The tool may include a pair of parallel rods extending from the second tool frame member toward the first frame member and a pair of parallel openings extending through the second frame member, wherein the parallel rods extend through the parallel openings, thereby allowing the first frame member to slide toward and away from the second frame member, such that the first and second trays maintain the same orientation relative to each other. The tool may include a main knob rotatably fixed to the second frame member for moving the first frame member toward and away from the second frame member. The tool may include a locking member for locking the tool in the closed position. Attached Figure Description

[0014] The novel features and essential characteristics of the invention are specifically set forth in the appended claims. The drawings are for illustrative purposes only and are not drawn to scale. However, with regard to both the organization and the method of operation, the invention itself can be best understood by referring to the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0015] Figure 1A This is a right front top perspective view of the cable cutting tool according to the present invention.

[0016] Figure 1B yes Figure 1A The image shows a right rear-view perspective of the cable slitting tool.

[0017] Figure 1C This is a front-left perspective view of the cable cutting tool frame.

[0018] Figure 2 It can be fixed to Figure 1C A perspective view of the top surface of the cable tray of the cable slitting tool frame shown.

[0019] Figure 3 It can be fixed to Figure 1C A perspective view of the bottom surface of the cable tray of the cable cutting tool frame shown.

[0020] Figure 4A This is a side elevation view of the lower cable tray.

[0021] Figure 4B This is a front view of the lower cable tray from the front.

[0022] Figures 5 to 8 This is an elevation side view of a slitting tool with various tray options according to the present invention.

[0023] Figure 9 A rear view of the slitting tool is shown, with the locking knob and tool in the closed and locked position.

[0024] Figure 10 The rear view of the slitting tool is shown, with the locking knob and the tool in the open position.

[0025] Figure 11 A tray with groove diameter and tray depth for a specific cable is shown.

[0026] Figure 12 It shows having the same characteristics as used for Figure 11 The trays for cables have different groove diameters and tray depths.

[0027] Figure 13 The first step of the method of using the slitting tool according to the present invention is shown.

[0028] Figure 14 The second step of the method of using the slitting tool according to the present invention is shown.

[0029] Figure 15 The third step of the method of using the slitting tool according to the present invention is shown.

[0030] Figure 16 The fourth step of the method of using the slitting tool according to the present invention is shown.

[0031] Figure 17 The fifth step of the method of using the slitting tool according to the present invention is shown.

[0032] Figure 18 The sixth step of the method of using the slitting tool according to the present invention is shown.

[0033] Figure 19 The seventh step of the method of using the slitting tool according to the present invention is shown.

[0034] Figure 20 The steps for inserting a tray into the recess of a slitting tool according to the present invention are shown.

[0035] Figure 21The steps for removing a tray from a recess in a slitting tool according to the present invention are shown.

[0036] Figure 22A The engagement locking knob is shown to lock the slitting tool in the closed position.

[0037] Figure 22B The steps for inserting a longitudinally cut cable into a slitting tool are shown.

[0038] Figure 22C The steps of closing the slitting tool and cutting the cable along its length are shown.

[0039] Figure 23 The diagram shows the cable being inserted into a slitting tool for circumferential cutting.

[0040] Figure 24 A slitting tool that rotates around a cable is shown to perform a circumferential cut in the cable.

[0041] Figure 25 A right front top perspective view of a second embodiment of the slitting tool according to the present invention is shown.

[0042] Figure 26 It shows Figure 25 The exploded 3D view of the slitting tool shown.

[0043] Figure 27 It shows Figure 25 The right elevation view of the slitting tool shown.

[0044] Figure 28 It shows Figure 25 The left elevation view of the slitting tool shown.

[0045] Figure 29 It shows Figure 25 The rear elevation view of the slitting tool shown.

[0046] Figure 30 It shows Figure 25 The plan view of the slitting tool shown.

[0047] Figure 31 It shows Figure 25 The plan view of the slicing tool shown.

[0048] Figure 32 It shows Figure 25 The front view of the cutting tool shown.

[0049] Figure 33 It shows the use of Figure 25 A perspective view of the tray of the second embodiment of the cutting tool shown.

[0050] Figure 34 It shows the use of Figure 25 The bottom perspective view of the tray, blade, and blade holder of the second embodiment of the slitting tool shown.

[0051] Figure 35 It shows the use of Figure 25 A second bottom perspective view of the tray, blade, and blade holder of the second embodiment of the slitting tool shown.

[0052] Figure 36 It shows the use of Figure 25 The blade holder of the second embodiment of the slitting tool shown.

[0053] Figure 37 It shows the use of Figure 25 The blade of the second embodiment of the slitting tool shown.

[0054] Figure 38 It shows the use of Figure 25 A perspective view of the main knob of the second embodiment of the slitting tool shown.

[0055] Figure 39 It shows the use of Figure 25 A second perspective view of the main knob of the second embodiment of the slitting tool shown. Detailed Implementation

[0056] In describing embodiments of the present invention, reference will be made herein to Figures 1 to 14. Figure 39 The same reference numerals refer to the same features of the present invention.

[0057] Pipe or cable sheath cutting tool 8 is shown in the attached diagram. Figure 1A and Figure 1B As shown in the image. Figure 1C The chassis 10 of the slitting tool 8 is shown. The slitting tool 8 includes a pair of removable and interchangeable trays 70, 71, as shown. Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4A and Figure 4B As shown in the diagram, the slitting tool 8 slits the cable sheaths on cables with different diameters and different sheath or sheath thicknesses. The slitting tool includes a chassis 10 having opposing first and second tool frame members 20, 22. Along the first ends 66, 68 of each tool frame member 20, 22, each tool frame member 20, 22 includes a recess 9 for inserting trays 70, 71 (see Figure 8). Figure 1C The chassis 10 includes a pair of opposing frame concave surfaces 12 for positioning the cable relative to the chassis 10 when the tool is in the closed position. The chassis 10 includes a pair of opposing blades 30, 32. Figure 9The blades 30 and 32 shown have blade tips 33. Each blade 30 and 32 is fixed to a corresponding tool frame member 20 and 22. The blade support 34 is used to hold the blades 30 and 32 on the corresponding tool frame member 20 and 22. The chassis 10 includes a pivot pin 11 that rotatably fixes the second ends 60 and 62 of the first and second tool frame members 20 and 22 opposite to the first ends 66 and 68 of each tool frame member 20 and 22, thereby allowing the first ends 66 and 68 of the first and second tool frame members to move toward and away from each other. The pivot pin 11 is offset from the tool centerline or axis 2, such that the cable can extend unobstructed through the entire tool when inserted into the tool for longitudinal cutting.

[0058] The first and second trays 70 and 71 of the slitting tool 8 can be fixed in the recesses 9 of the first and second tool frame members 20 and 22, respectively. Each of the first and second trays 70 and 71 ( Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4A and Figure 4B The device includes a tray base 77 having a tray cavity 79 and a lip 92 extending outward from the tray base 77 for easy removal of trays 70, 71. Trays 70, 71 include first and second concave circumferential groove surfaces 72, 74, spaced apart from each other across the tray cavity 79, for guiding the cable during circumferential slitting around the diameter of the cable. Trays 70, 71 include first and second longitudinal groove surfaces 76, 78, spaced apart from each other in a direction perpendicular to the circumferential surfaces 72, 74, for guiding the cable during slitting along the length of the cable. Each tray 70, 71 includes a blade opening 48 for allowing a blade to extend from the bottom surface 77' of the tray base, through the tray base 77, and into the tray cavity 79. Trays 70 and 71 include at least one metal member 42, which may be a metal pin or metal rod that secures trays 70 and 71 in corresponding recesses by cooperating with a magnet 40 fixed in the corresponding tool frame members 20 and 22. Although Figure 3 The corresponding tool frame members 20 and 22 are not shown, but the magnet 40 is shown in relative position when the tray is fixed in the corresponding tool frame members 20 and 22. When the tool trays 70 and 71 are inserted into the recesses 9, the tray tabs 93 help to align the tool trays 70 and 71. The tray for a specific cable can be identified using the color-coded inserts 200.

[0059] Figures 5 to 8A variation of a tray for accommodating cables with different diameters and sheath thicknesses is shown. First and second trays 70, 71 may include a bottom surface 77' and a top surface 77"; the bottom surface 77' is positioned against a recess 9 of a tool frame member, and the top surface 77" is opposite the bottom surface 77'. The plane of the top surface 77" is at a desired angle to the plane of the bottom surface 77', either parallel (0°) or at an acute angle, to accommodate tubes or cables of different diameters, and to ensure that the top surfaces 77" of the first and second trays are parallel to each other when the tool 8 is in the closed position. The tray thickness separates the ends of the tool frame members 20, 22, and thus sets the spacing of the blades extending from the respective frame members when the tool is in the closed position. The first and second trays 70, 71 are removable and can be replaced with different tray sets with different tray depths and / or different sizes of circumferential and longitudinal concave surface diameters to accommodate different specific cable sizes. For example, the first and second trays 70 may be configured to accommodate larger cable diameters, such as… Figure 8 As shown, the planes of the bottom surface 71' and the top surface 71" can be parallel. For cable diameters that decrease sequentially, such as Figure 7 , Figure 6 and Figure 5 As shown, the angle between the planes of the bottom surface 71' and the top surface 71" will be an acute angle that increases sequentially. Also, the tool frame members 20 and 22, adjacent to... Figure 8 , Figure 7 , Figure 6 and Figure 5 The angle β between the surfaces of the trays shown illustrates an acute angle that increases sequentially. The tray depth and the plane angle between the top and bottom surfaces of each set of first and second trays are selected such that the blade extends to the depth of the cable diameter required to cut into the sheath of that set of trays.

[0060] Compare Figures 5 to 8 Regardless of which tray is used, the tips of the blades 30 and 32 are positioned at the same distance d from where the blades are attached to the recess 9 of the frame member, because the blades can be directly mounted to the frame members 20 and 22. Preferably, the blades are mounted to the corresponding frame members using blade supports. Figure 5 and Figure 6 The plug-in image shown illustrates that distance d is the same in both cases, where the tray thickness determines the blade's cutting depth. Although Figure 5 The tray in Figure 6 The trays in the same configuration will support cables of the same diameter, but the tray thickness at the location where the blades are installed will differ. The tray depth (thickness from bottom to top) determines the blade exposure distance, which is determined by the thickness of the sheath of the cable 300 to be cut. Figure 6 The thickness of the tray in the middle is greater than Figure 5The thickness of the tray is increased, thereby reducing angle α and increasing angle β.

[0061] like Figure 9 The closing tool 8 and Figure 10 As shown in the open tool 8, the slitting tool 8 includes a locking knob 97 with a locking knob opening 99 that rotatably engages with a second frame member post 4 extending rearward from the second frame member 22. The locking knob opening 99 is offset from the center of the locking knob 97, such that the locking knob 97 rotates eccentrically about the post 4. The locking knob 97 includes a flat portion 94 for engaging a locking surface 95 on the first frame member 20, wherein the locking knob 97 locks the tool in a closed position. The locked position of the locking knob 97 depends on the depth of the trays 70, 71 fixed to the first and second frame members 20, 22, and the locked position is continuously variable to accommodate various tray depths.

[0062] Figure 11 The tray shown (with) Figure 1A and Figure 1B The same tray in the middle) has a depth h1, which allows the blade tip 33 to cut the first cable 300 with a sheath having a diameter d1 and a specific thickness. Figure 12 The tray shown has a depth h2 greater than h1 because the second cable 400, with a larger diameter d1, can still have a sheath of the same thickness as the first cable 300, and the blade tip 33 needs to extend the same distance into the tray groove. The depth of the tray compensates for the larger diameter groove.

[0063] Figures 13 to 19 The method of using the slitting tool 8 is illustrated. The method includes: ensuring that the first and second tool frame members 20, 22 are in the open position. The user then selects the first and second trays 70, 71 for insertion into the first and second tool frame members 20, 22, the selection of the trays based on the diameter of the cable 300 and the thickness of the outer sheath of the cable 300. The user inserts the cable 300 into either a circumferential or longitudinal groove, depending on whether a circular or horizontal cut is being made along the length of the cable 300. The user then moves the first and second tool frame members 20, 21 to the closed position, whereby the blade tips 33 on the blades 30, 32 extending inward from each of the trays 70, 71 pierce the outer sheath of the cable 300. The user then moves the cable 300 until the desired cut is formed in the sheath of the cable 300; moves the first and second tool frame members 20, 22 to the open position; and removes the slit cable 300 from the trays 70, 71. The first and second trays 70, 71 can be replaced by third and fourth trays 70', 71', which have different tray depths and different concave surface diameters than the first and second trays 70, 71. Although Figures 15 to 17 and Figure 19 The diagram illustrates the positioning of cable 300 for circumferential cutting, placing cable 300 in a position such as... Figure 18 In the longitudinal section, but the method of these figures can also be applied to longitudinal sections where the cable 300 is placed across the tool instead of along the length of the tool.

[0064] exist Figures 20 to 24 In a more detailed description of the method of using the tube or cable cutting tool shown, the method includes: ensuring that the first and second tool frame members 20, 22 are in the open position and selecting the first and second trays 70, 71 for insertion into the first and second tool frame members 20, 22, the tray selection being based on the diameter of the cable 300 and the thickness of the outer sheath of the cable 300; and securing the first and second trays to the recesses of the first and second tool frame members. Figure 20 The method includes placing a tube or cable 300 with an outer sheath into the first and second circumferential sections of one of the first or second trays 70, 71. Figure 23 ), or placed in the first or second longitudinal section of one of the first or second trays 70, 71 ( Figure 22B The method includes: moving the first and second tool frame members to a closed position. Figure 22C Used for circumferential cutting Figure 24 (For longitudinal cutting), thereby piercing the outer sheath of cable 300 by blades extending inward from each tray in the tray. The method includes: if cable 300 is in a circumferential cut ( Figure 24 If the cable 300 is in the direction of one of arrows 500 or 501, then rotate the cable 300; or if the cable 300 is in the longitudinal section ( Figure 22C If the cable 300 is moved longitudinally (arrows 700, 701), the cable 300 is moved and the movement of the cable 300 continues until the desired cut is completed. The method includes: moving the first and second tool frame members to the open position and removing the cut tube or cable 300 from the tray. Figure 19 ). Figure 22C The cable 300 is shown in a longitudinally slit position, where the pivot pin 11 is not shown due to the offset of the hinge portion of the slit tool.

[0065] The tray has an inner tapered bevel to aid in aligning the cable 300. This bevel helps guide the end user to align the cable 300 with the channel before closing the tool. The tray also has an outer tapered positioning tab on the outer side to precisely align the cutting channel when the tool chassis closes onto the cable 300. The tool does not rely on the chassis to achieve channel accuracy.

[0066] The trays serve as simple, application-specific spacers. The cutting blades and chassis remain unchanged. It is conceivable that end users could have a kit containing multiple trays and a tool chassis suitable for a range of applications.

[0067] The tray is installed into the upper and lower housings and slides on the fixed blade through an opening. The tray is held in place within the upper and lower housings. This design utilizes magnets to hold the tray in place and allows for easy removal and replacement with trays of different sizes.

[0068] Because each tray is sized specifically for a particular cable size, the blade depth is controlled by the tray design. Each unique tray has a different thickness, creating a variable chassis clearance in the center plane. The interaction between the channel diameter and the blade clearance determines the effective cutting depth into the cable 300. The relative blade protrusions for a given diameter can be controlled by varying the tray thickness for different applications. The angle of each tray is slightly different because the amount of opening and closing of the pivoting tool chassis varies with the chassis clearance. The tray has a stop position and precisely sets the channel diameter; therefore, the end user can squeeze the tool closed without increasing guide friction.

[0069] Figures 25 to 39 A second embodiment of the invention is shown, wherein the tool trays move relative to each other in a straight line. Figure 25 The slitting tool 100 shown in the image also has Figure 26 The exploded diagram and Figures 27 to 32 The elevation view is shown in the figure. The slitting tool 100 includes a pair of removable and interchangeable trays 130, 132 for slitting cables with different diameters and different sheath or sheath thicknesses. The slitting tool 100 includes opposing first and second tool frame members 120, 122, each tool frame member including recesses 160, 162 along a first end 166, 168 of each tool frame member for inserting trays 180, 182. The tool 100 includes a pair of opposing blades 180 and blade supports 170, the blades 180 being fixed to the respective tool frame members 120, 122, and the blade supports 170 for holding the blades 180 on the respective tool frame members 120, 122. Tool 100 includes a pair of parallel rods 150 extending from a second tool frame member 122 toward a first frame member 120 and a pair of parallel openings 160 extending through the second frame member 122, wherein the parallel rods 150 extend through the parallel openings 160, thereby causing the first frame member 120 to slide toward and away from the second frame member 122, thereby causing the first tray and the second trays 130, 132 to maintain the same orientation relative to each other. The chassis includes a compression spring 152 for biasing the tool in the open position.

[0070] The slitting tool 100 includes first and second trays 130 and 132. Figures 33 to 35 The first and second trays 130 and 132 can be secured in recesses 165 and 167 of the first and second tool frame members 120 and 122, respectively. Each of the first and second trays 130 and 132 includes a tray base 141 having a tray cavity 179. The trays 130 and 132 include first and second concave circumferential surfaces 145 and 146, which are spaced apart from each other across the tray cavity 179, for guiding the cable 300 when slicing in an circumferential direction around the diameter of the cable 300. The trays include first and second longitudinal surfaces 143 and 144, which are spaced apart from each other in a direction perpendicular to the circumferential surface spacing, for guiding the cable 300 when slicing along the length of the cable 300. The trays 130 and 132 include a blade opening 148 for allowing a blade to extend from the bottom of the tray base, through the tray base, and into the tray cavity 79. Trays 130 and 132 include at least one protrusion 146 that can engage with at least one alignment recess 147.

[0071] The slitting tool includes a main knob 90 rotatably fixed to a second frame member 122 for moving the first frame member 120 toward and away from the second frame member 122. The main knob includes an inner flat surface 98 that engages the first frame member 120 toward and away from the second frame member 122. A tension spring 152 biases the tool in a closed position.

[0072] The cable slitting tool described above performs repeatable and precise circumferential and longitudinal cuts within the outer sheath of cables or conduits without the need for blade adjustment. The tool includes removable and interchangeable upper / lower trays to provide application-specific blade depth and channel dimensions for repeatable and precise circumferential and longitudinal cuts. The chassis features offset supports to allow for mid-span and stripping cuts of the cable. Each housing is fitted with a precision blade with fixed height and orientation (no blade adjustment or rotation required). The blade is removable for replacement if worn. The tool includes a removable tray with integrated tapered guides and grooves to provide accurate centering of the grooved channels and precise cable positioning. The chassis assembly remains constant to operate across a wide range of cable diameters and sheath thicknesses achievable through tray replacement. The tool includes an ergonomic housing that helps maintain full closure during cutting, even with minimal hand pressure applied by the end user.

[0073] Although the invention has been specifically described in conjunction with one or more specific embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many alternatives, modifications, and variations will be readily apparent from the foregoing description. Therefore, the appended claims are intended to encompass any such alternatives, modifications, and variations that fall within the true scope and spirit of the invention.

[0074] Therefore, given that the invention has been described, what is to be protected by the invention is as shown in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A cable sheath cutting tool, the cable sheath cutting tool comprising: Opposite first and second tool frame members, wherein at least a portion of the tool frame members are movable toward and away from each other; A pair of opposing blades, which can be fixed to respective tool frame members, the blades having blade tips extending toward each other and being able to move toward and away from each other; and The tool frame members include first and second trays, each capable of being secured to the first and second tool frame members respectively. Each of the first and second trays includes a tray cavity in which a cable can be secured when the tool is in a closed position, allowing the blade to be positioned to cut the cable. In the closed position, the portions of the tool frame members face each other. The first and second trays are removable and can be replaced by third and fourth trays having different tray heights than the first and second trays. The first and second trays are for a first cable having a first sheath thickness, while the third and fourth trays are for a second cable having a second sheath thickness different from the first diameter.

2. The tool according to claim 1, wherein the tool includes a pivot pin, wherein, One end of each frame member is rotatable about the pivot pin, and the opposite ends of each frame member are rotatable toward and away from the opposite frame member.

3. The tool according to claim 2, wherein, When the tool is in the closed position, the inner surfaces of each frame member are positioned at an angle to each other, and the first and second trays include a bottom surface and a top surface, the bottom surface being positioned against a recess of the tool frame member, and the top surface being at an angle to the bottom surface so that the top surfaces of the first and second trays are parallel to each other when the tool is in the closed position.

4. The tool according to claim 1, wherein, The first and second trays are removable and can be replaced by third and fourth trays, which have different circumferential diameters and longitudinal concave diameters than the first and second trays. The first and second trays are used for a first cable with a first diameter, while the third and fourth trays are used for a second cable with a second diameter different from the first diameter.

5. The tool according to claim 1, wherein, The first angle between the top surfaces of the first and second trays and their bottom surfaces is different from the second angle between the top surfaces of the third and fourth trays and their bottom surfaces.

6. The tool of claim 1, the tool comprising first and second concave circumferential surfaces and first and second longitudinal surfaces, the first and second concave circumferential surfaces being spaced apart from each other across the tray cavity for guiding the cable in a circumferential direction when slicing around the diameter of the cable, the first and second longitudinal surfaces being spaced apart from each other in a direction perpendicular to the circumferential surfaces for guiding the cable in a length-wise direction when slicing.

7. The tool of claim 1, the tool comprising first and second magnets respectively fixed to the first and second frame members and first and second metal elements respectively fixed to the first and second trays, wherein the first magnet removably fixes the first tray to the first frame member, and the second magnet removably fixes the second tray to the second tray member.

8. The tool of claim 1, wherein the tool comprises first and second magnets respectively fixed to the first and second trays and first and second metal elements respectively fixed to the first and second frame members, wherein, The first magnet removably secures the first tray to the first frame member, and the second magnet removably secures the second tray to the second tray member.

9. The tool of claim 1, the tool comprising first and second tool base ends, wherein the first and second trays are fixable to the first tool base end, and the second tool base end is offset from the tool centerline axis such that the cable can extend unobstructed through the entire tool when inserted into the tool for longitudinal cutting.

10. The tool of claim 1, the tool comprising a rotatable latch knob for locking the tool in the closed position.

11. The tool according to claim 10, wherein, The latch knob is used to secure the tool in the closed position for storage.

12. The tool according to claim 10, wherein, At the end of the tool opposite to the tool end that secures the first and second trays, a latch knob is rotatably secured to the first or second tool frame member. The latch knob has an annular edge, the annular edge including a flat surface on the annular edge, the flat surface being capable of engaging with a portion of the other of the first or second tool frame members.

13. The tool of claim 1, the tool comprising a rotatable latch knob for locking the tool in the closed position, wherein the locking position of the latch knob is variable to accommodate various tray heights.

14. The tool according to claim 1, wherein, The blade is removably fixed to the first and second frame members.

15. A method using a slicing tool, the method comprising: The system provides opposing first and second tool frame members, a pair of opposing blades, and first and second trays, wherein at least a portion of the tool frame members is movable toward and away from each other, the blades are fixable to the respective tool frame members, the blades having blade tips extending toward each other and being movable toward and away from each other, and the first and second trays are respectively fixable to the first and second tool frame members, each of the first and second trays including a tray cavity, wherein, when the tool is in a closed position, a cable is fixable in the cavity, and the blades are positioned to cut the cable, wherein, in the closed position, the portions of the tool frame members are facing each other; Provide cables; Ensure that the first and second tool frame components are in the open position; Place the tube or cable with the outer sheath in one of the first or second trays; The first and second tool frame members are moved to the closed position, whereby the blades extending inward from each of the trays pierce the outer sheath of the cable; Move the cable until the desired cut is formed in the cable sheath; Move the first and second tool frame components to the open position; and The method includes removing the cut cable from the tray, wherein the first and second trays can be replaced by third and fourth trays having different tray heights and different concave surface diameters than the first and second trays; and the method includes selecting first and second trays for insertion into the first and second tool frame members, the tray selection being based on the diameter of the cable and the thickness of the outer sheath of the cable; and the method includes selecting a desired tray pair, and after ensuring that the first and second tool frame members are in the open position, securing the selected trays to the first and second frame members.

16. The method according to claim 15, wherein, The first and second trays include first and second concave circumferential surfaces and first and second longitudinal surfaces, the first and second concave circumferential surfaces being spaced apart from each other across the tray cavity for guiding the cable when slicing around the diameter of the cable in an circumferential direction, the first and second longitudinal surfaces being spaced apart from each other in a direction perpendicular to the circumferential surfaces for guiding the cable when slicing along the length of the cable, wherein the first and second circumferential surfaces fix the cable in a direction perpendicular to the first and second longitudinal surfaces.

17. The method according to claim 15, wherein, The step of placing a cable with an outer sheath in one of the first or second trays includes: placing the cable with the outer sheath in the first and second circumferential sections of the first or second tray; and the step of moving the cable until the desired cut is formed in the cable sheath includes: rotating the cable until the circumferential cut is formed in the cable.

18. The method according to claim 15, wherein, The step of placing a cable with an outer sheath in one of the first or second trays includes: placing the cable with the outer sheath in the first and second longitudinal sections of one of the first or second trays; and the step of moving the cable until the desired cut is formed in the cable sheath includes moving the cable in the longitudinal direction.

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