Anti-Short Bushing Wire Identification System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for identifying electrical wires and cables within junction boxes or panels are ineffective as they fade, become hidden, or detach over time, making it difficult for subsequent installers or repair personnel to determine the correct connections, especially in finished constructions or when repairs are needed.
Innovation Solution
A wire identification device integrated into an anti-short bushing with a plastic insulating ring and a visible label or tag that can be permanently secured to the wire without adhesives, ensuring visibility and durability, and a system of connected labels that can be easily dispensed for use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If pressure sensitive labels are used to identify wires, then the labels can be easily applied to wires, but the labels become hidden inside walls or behind junction boxes making them invisible for future identification
Solution Approach 1:
The identification label is extracted from the conventional position inside the wall or behind the junction box and repositioned to extend outward from the bushing at the cable entry point, where it remains visible while still identifying the wire correctly
Solution Approach 2:
The identification system transitions from a two-dimensional label flat against the wire to a three-dimensional configuration where the label extends outward from the bushing, creating visibility in multiple directions and ensuring it cannot be obscured by wall finishes
2Ease of operation
If clip on markers are used to identify wires, then the markers can be attached to wires, but the markers detach over time causing loss of identification
Solution Approach 1:
The identification label is merged with the anti-short bushing into a single integrated component, eliminating the risk of detachment by making the label an inherent part of the bushing structure rather than a separate attachment
Solution Approach 2:
The label is pre-formed as an integral part of the bushing during manufacturing, with the identification surface prepared in advance, eliminating the need for separate attachment steps and ensuring permanent integration
3Productivity
If makeshift marking methods are used by installers, then identification can be applied quickly, but the markings fade or disappear over time rendering them ineffective
Solution Approach 1:
The identification label is pre-formed with a durable writing surface during bushing manufacturing, eliminating the need for makeshift marking methods and ensuring long-term durability while maintaining ease of use
Solution Approach 2:
The label incorporates a durable writing surface that maintains its properties over time, and the bushing itself can be color-coded to provide additional permanent identification that does not fade
Data Source
AI summary
An electric wire identifier that includes an anti-short bushing in the form of an electrical insulating ring-like insert fitted onto the end of a metal or armored clad cable that defines the terminal end of the armored cable or into the end of an electrical connector that is generally inserted through a knock-out hole of an electric box or panel, and which bushing includes an integral extension or surface capable of retaining thereon suitable identifying indicia that is rendered visible throughout the lifetime of the electrical installation. In another form of the invention, the wire identifiers, in the form of a label or tag having a loop attachment that may be arranged in a tree or roll whereby the individual labels or tags can be readily dispensed as needed.