Adjustable Clip for Trunking with Sliding Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current cable retention clips for trunking systems are inefficient, as they often require tools for installation, can damage cables, and reduce available space within the trunking due to their design, and are not adaptable to various trunking sizes or orientations.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable clip comprising two moveable members with cooperating formations, such as tongues and recesses, and a series of ridges, allowing for adjustable length and tool-free operation, reducing the risk of cable damage and maximizing space within the trunking, while being adaptable to various trunking sizes and orientations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional clips are used to retain cables in trunking, then cable retention is achieved, but the clips require tools for installation which slows down installation speed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical screw-fastening systems with a snap-fit mechanism that uses elastic deformation and geometric interlocking. The clip features a resilient body that can be compressed to open the clamp and naturally springs back to secure the cable, eliminating the need for tools and significantly加快 installation speed.
2Reliability
If metal trunking with turnbuckle arrangements is used, then cover retention is achieved, but cables proximate to the flange can be damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a non-conductive, insulated clip body as an intermediary between the metal trunking flange and the cables. This plastic or polymer clip body prevents direct contact between metal components and cables, eliminating the risk of short-circuits and cable damage while still providing secure mechanical retention through its clamp mechanism.
3Quantity of substance
If C-shaped resilient clips are used, then cable retention is achieved, but the available capacity within trunking is significantly reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic clip design where the clamp portion is resilient and can flex open and closed. The clip body can be compressed to open the clamp, inserted into the trunking, and then naturally springs back to secure the cable. This dynamic mechanism allows the clip to occupy minimal space when installed while providing effective cable retention, maximizing the remaining cable capacity in the trunking.
4Adaptability or versatility
If fixed-length clips are used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to various trunking sizes is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the clip into distinct functional segments: a clamp portion with opposing jaws for cable retention, a body portion that provides structural support and resilience, and engagement features for attachment to the trunking flange. This segmentation allows each part to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall simplicity, enabling the same clip design to adapt to various trunking sizes without increasing complexity.
Data Source
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Figure 6
AI summary
A clip 10 is provided for the retention of cables or wiring 44 in electrical installation trunking 46. The clip 10 has a first member 12 and a second member 14, which are coupled together in a sliding relationship. In use, the clip 10 slides apart, extending across the open face 50 of the trunking 46 until the lateral ends of the clip abut against an internal side wall 52 of the trunking 46. Cooperating locking strips (26, 40, see Fig 3 and 4) act to lock the relative positions of the first 12 and second 14 members and to prevent the clip 10 from falling out of the trunking 46.