Bowden Cable Bayonet Coupling for Quick Tool-Free Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing Bowden cable couplings are complex to operate and not suitable for frequent opening and closing, making it time-consuming and often requiring tools to release the connection between Bowden cables.
Innovation Solution
A Bowden cable coupling system featuring a first and second coupling unit with guide bushings and sliding units, connected via a coupling sleeve, utilizing a bayonet closure mechanism for quick and easy coupling and decoupling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional Bowden cable connection is used with retaining nipples and clamp screws, then the connection is secure and reliable, but releasing the connection is time-consuming and cannot be performed without tools
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device employs a dynamic locking mechanism where the locking element can be easily shifted between locked and unlocked positions. The elastic element provides automatic return to the locked position, enabling quick tool-free release while maintaining secure connection during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling device is designed to be self-servicing through the elastic element that automatically returns the locking element to the locked position after release. The user simply needs to press the release element, and the system self-locks without requiring additional tools or actions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the Bowden cable is released from one of the elements, then the components can be separated, but the Bowden cable becomes unsupported over a great length and swings back and forth
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device features a nested structure where the first and second coupling elements are inserted into each other, with guide bushings providing internal guidance. This nested arrangement maintains cable stability during separation while enabling component disassembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide bushings act as intermediaries between the coupling elements and the Bowden cable core. They provide guidance and support to the cable core during coupling and decoupling operations, preventing unwanted movement and maintaining stability even when components are separated.
3Ease of operation
If the Bowden cable is released and reconnected, then components can be reassembled, but it cannot be ensured that the effective length is identical to prior to connecting, requiring correction
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device is pre-configured with specific geometric relationships between the guide bushings, locking elements, and cable connection points. This preliminary design ensures that when components are assembled, the effective length is automatically restored to the original specification without requiring measurement or adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces complex mechanical adjustment systems with a geometrically constrained coupling mechanism. The fixed geometric relationships between components substitute for traditional adjustment mechanisms, ensuring consistent effective length through design rather than adjustment.
4Reliability
If a Bowden cable coupling from prior art is used, then two Bowden cables can be coupled, but the handling for releasing and connecting is complex and not suitable for frequent opening and closing
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device is segmented into distinct functional elements: guide bushings for alignment, locking elements for securing, and release elements for decoupling. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function simply, reducing overall complexity while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanism inverts the traditional approach by making the locked state the default (through the elastic element) and the unlocked state the temporary condition (achieved through the release element). This inversion simplifies the mechanism for frequent operations, as the system naturally returns to the secure locked position without complex resetting procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
A Bowden cable coupling for releasably coupling a first Bowden cable to a second Bowden cable is configured and operable to transmit mechanical forces from an activation element to a functional element. The Bowden cable coupling has a first coupling unit which is connected to the first Bowden cable, a second coupling unit which is connected to the second Bowden cable, and a coupling sleeve for connecting the first coupling unit and the second coupling unit together, wherein the first coupling unit and the coupling sleeve are releasably connected to one another by way of a bayonet closure.