Barrier Cable Coupler With Wedge Tensioning and Secure Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing barrier cable systems lack an efficient method to securely couple and tension multiple lengths of barrier cables, which is crucial for effective vehicle and pedestrian restraint systems.
Innovation Solution
A barrier cable coupler system that includes a coupler body with fixed and tensioning retaining collars, wedges, and a tensioning nut, allowing for secure engagement and tensioning of cable ends, utilizing tapered surfaces and springs to enhance frictional retention and adjustable tensioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple lengths of barrier cable are coupled using existing systems, then the barrier cable installation can be extended, but the coupling and tensioning efficiency is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The coupler body is divided into distinct functional segments: a fixed retaining collar for securing the first cable length, and a tensioning retaining collar with adjustable nut for the second cable length. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each coupling mechanism, improving both efficiency and reliability of the overall assembly process
Solution Approach 2:
The tensioning retaining collar incorporates an adjustable nut that enables dynamic tensioning of the second cable length after installation. This dynamic adjustment capability allows the system to achieve proper tension levels efficiently while ensuring reliable securement, resolving the contradiction between speed and security
2Reliability
If tapered surfaces and springs are used to enhance frictional retention, then cable removal resistance is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fixed retaining collar incorporates a tapered surface that converts linear cable insertion force into radial clamping force through geometric transformation. This curved surface design enhances frictional retention and resistance to cable removal without requiring additional active components, thereby improving reliability while avoiding increased complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded wedges within the tapered surface automatically engage and apply frictional force to the cable as it is inserted. The system self-regulates the retention force based on cable insertion, providing enhanced resistance to removal without requiring external actuation or complex control mechanisms
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 system effectively couples and tensions barrier cables, providing enhanced security and stability by resisting cable removal and allowing for adjustable tension, thereby improving the restraint capabilities of barrier cable installations.
Implementation Method 1
The fixed retaining collar includes a tapered inner surface. The barrier cable coupler also includes one or more fixed end wedges positioned within the tapered inner surface of the fixed retaining collar
Implementation Method 2
The barrier cable coupler also includes one or more tensioning end wedges positioned within the tapered inner surface of the tensioning retaining collar and a tensioning nut
Implementation Method 3
The tensioning retaining collar includes a tapered inner surface. The barrier cable coupler also includes one or more tensioning end wedges positioned within the tapered inner surface of the tensioning retaining collar
Implementation Method 4
The barrier cable coupler includes a coupler body, the coupler body including an inner surface and the coupler body having a first end and a second end
Data Source
AI summary
A barrier cable coupler for coupling two lengths of barrier cable comprises a coupler body including a threaded inner surface, a first end, and a second end; a fixed retaining collar having an outer surface and being retained to the first end of the coupler body, the fixed retaining collar including a tapered inner surface; one or more fixed end wedges positioned within the tapered inner surface of the fixed retaining collar; a tensioning retaining collar having an outer surface, the tensioning retaining collar positioned at least partially within the second end of the coupler body and including a tapered inner surface; one or more tensioning end wedges positioned within the tapered inner surface of the tensioning retaining collar; and a tensioning nut including a threaded outer surface engaging the threaded inner surface of the second end of the coupler body and retaining the tensioning retaining collar therein.