Backshell Cable Support With Adjustable Curved Exit Angles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cable supports, such as backshells, are limited in their ability to provide mechanical support for cables at various orientations, often requiring multiple types or complex designs with many components to achieve different exit angles, which complicates manufacturing and installation.
Innovation Solution
A backshell with a fixed tail portion that provides multiple connection positions along a curved exit path, allowing a fastening component to be secured at different positions to guide the cable at various exit angles, simplifying construction and reducing the number of components needed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a backshell uses a moulded-in or machined profile to support cable bundles, then the cable orientation is fixed (0, 45, or 90 degrees), but multiple different backshell types are required to achieve various orientations
Solution Approach 1:
The backshell incorporates a rotatable arm mechanism that allows a single backshell design to support cable bundles at multiple orientations (0, 45, and 90 degrees). The arm can be rotated to different angular positions and locked in place, enabling one backshell to perform the function of multiple fixed-profile backshells.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a backshell includes a rotatable arm to support cables at range of orientations, then cable orientation versatility is improved, but the backshell comprises many components and becomes complex to manufacture and install
Solution Approach 1:
The rotatable arm is integrated into the backshell as a unified structure rather than separate components. The arm features a continuous circumferential groove that guides the cable throughout its rotation path, and the arm can be manufactured as a single piece with built-in locking features, reducing assembly steps and manufacturing complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a backshell uses a rotatable arm design, then multiple cable orientations are achievable, but the backshell may not be sufficient to fully support cable arrangements at high curvatures
Solution Approach 1:
The rotatable arm incorporates a circumferential groove with a curved profile that matches the natural bend radius of the cable. This curved groove provides continuous support along the cable path, distributing mechanical stress and preventing cable damage during rotation and at various angular positions, including high curvature orientations.
Data Source
AI summary
A backshell is configured to be connected to an electrical connector. The backshell includes a backshell body configured to receive a cable connectable with the electrical connector. The backshell also includes a fixed tail portion extending from the backshell body. The fixed tail portion provides a plurality of different connection positions spaced along a curved exit path extending from the backshell body. A fastening component can be connected to the fixed tail portion to retain the cable to the fixed tail portion at one of the plurality of different connection positions. The connection positions include fastening component engagement means, configured to retain the fastening component in position longitudinally with respect to the curved exit path. Connection of the fastening component at the different respective connection positions guides the cable from the fixed tail portion at different respective exit angles.