Angled Cable Tray Connector with Integrated Crimping Lug
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for angled connection of cable trays require additional parts like screws and nuts, making the process complicated and costly.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising two monoblock rigid parts made of polymeric material with integrated attachment ends that allow for angled connection without additional parts, using a circular cavity and projection for crimping and adjustable holes and marks for precise angle adjustment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If additional parts like screws and nuts are used for attaching rigid parts, then the connection is secure, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the attachment mechanism directly into the rigid parts by molding attachment ends with complementary geometries (circular cavity with lug and circular projection with opening) that connect through crimping. This merging of the attachment function into the main components eliminates the need for separate screws and nuts, reducing device complexity while maintaining secure connection through the interlocking design and elastic deformation of the lug.
2Reliability
If additional parts like screws and nuts are used for attaching rigid parts, then the connection is secure, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment ends are molded as integral parts of the rigid components using injection molding or similar processes. The lug with retaining flanges and the complementary opening are formed directly during manufacturing of the rigid parts, eliminating the need to source, inventory, and assemble separate fasteners. This integration significantly reduces manufacturing cost while maintaining secure connection through the crimping mechanism.
3Ease of operation
If the attachment mechanism is simplified by removing screws and nuts, then the ease of operation improves, but the mechanical strength may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes elastic deformation as a key parameter change mechanism. The lug is designed with an elastically flexible portion that deforms during the crimping process to secure the connection. The retaining flanges with beveled ends engage with the opening edges, and the elastic recovery of the lug provides continuous holding force. This parameter change from rigid to elastic behavior enables simple operation while maintaining strong mechanical connection.
4Strength
If the lug is made rigid for stronger connection, then the mechanical strength improves, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to difficulty in crimping
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a localized parameter change by making only the portion of the lug that engages with the opening elastically flexible, while the rest of the lug maintains rigidity for structural strength. The elastically flexible portion allows easy deformation during crimping operation, while the rigid portions provide the necessary mechanical strength for the connection. This differentiated design resolves the contradiction between strength and ease of operation.
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
Enables easier and more cost-effective angled connection of cable trays with improved mechanical strength and user-friendly operation, allowing for variable angle adjustments without the need for screws and nuts.
Implementation Method 1
the lug comprises an elastically flexible portion in which the retaining flange is arranged, said elastically flexible portion being sized such that in the aligned position, the lug with the retaining flange only goes through the opening when the elastically flexible portion is bent
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
The invention relates to a device (1) for the angled connection of cable trays, comprising two parts made of a polymeric material that fit together. The attachment end (4A) of the first part (2A) comprises an axial lug (8) provided with a retaining flange (9). The attachment end (4B) of the second part comprises an opening and a retaining surface. In an aligned position of the parts, the opening allows the lug (8) and the retaining flange (9) to go through when the two parts are axially moved towards one another to fit them together. The axial relative movement of the two parts between the aligned position and an angled position is blocked by the attachment ends (4A, 4B) being supported against one another and the retaining flange (9) being supported against the retaining surface.