Adjustable Conductor Support Clip for Tool-Free EMI Mitigation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing support systems for electrical conductors lack adaptability to accommodate conductors of various sizes and orientations, often requiring complex installations and tools, and fail to effectively mitigate electromagnetic interference.
Innovation Solution
A modular support assembly featuring adjustable clip subassemblies with biased members, such as spring-actuated clips, that can move between open and closed configurations to securely retain conductors of different widths without the need for tools, allowing for quick and versatile installation and alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing support systems are used for electrical conductors, then installation is possible, but adaptability to accommodate conductors of various sizes and orientations is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The clip assembly incorporates a movable clip member that can transition between open and closed configurations, allowing dynamic adjustment to accommodate conductors of various sizes. The biasing element enables the clip to automatically adapt its position based on the conductor width, providing versatility without requiring multiple fixed-configuration clips
Solution Approach 2:
The support assembly is designed with a universal receiving space and adjustable clip mechanism that can secure conductors of different widths, orientations, and configurations (single conductor, multiple conductors, bundled conductors). This single assembly performs multiple functions that would otherwise require several different support devices
2Ease of operation
If existing support systems are used for electrical conductors, then conductor support is provided, but ease of installation is poor due to requiring complex installations and tools
Solution Approach 1:
The biasing element automatically propels the clip member into the closed configuration to secure the conductor without requiring manual adjustment or additional tools. The assembly essentially installs itself by simply placing it over the conductor, eliminating the need for complex installation procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The support assembly is divided into modular components (housing, clip member, biasing element) that can be easily handled and installed separately. The clip member can be independently actuated, allowing for simple tool-free installation while maintaining structural integrity
3Object-affected harmful factors
If existing support systems are used for electrical conductors, then basic retention is achieved, but effectiveness in mitigating electromagnetic interference is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The support assembly not only provides mechanical retention of conductors but also incorporates EMI mitigation capabilities through the conductive housing and strategic positioning, delivering multiple protective functions in a single device
Solution Approach 2:
The conductive housing acts as an intermediary between the conductor and the external environment, providing electromagnetic shielding while the clip member provides mechanical retention, thereby addressing both retention and EMI mitigation needs
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The support assembly simplifies the installation of conductors by accommodating various sizes and orientations, enhances conductor alignment, and reduces electromagnetic interference, while providing a secure and flexible retention mechanism.
Implementation Method 1
a biasing element configured to bias the clip away from the housing. The support assembly can include a housing with a receiving passage, and the biasing element can be disposed between the base wall of the clip and the housing
Data Source
AI summary
A support assembly, for supporting one or more conductors of a low voltage power distribution system, can include an adjustable clip subassembly. The adjustable clip subassembly can include a housing, a clip, and a biasing element. The housing can define a receiving space, and the clip can define a receiving region. The clip can be positioned within the receiving space so that the receiving region receives the housing. The biasing element can be disposed between the clip and the housing and configured to bias the clip away from the housing. The subassembly can be configured to move between an open configuration and a closed configuration. In the open configuration, the clip can compress the biasing element against the housing, allowing for insertion of a conductor into the receiving space. In the closed configuration, clip can be laterally translated, relative to the open configuration, to engage the conductor.