Bridge Platform Cable Connector with Neck Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bridge platform and scaffolding connectors require multiple parts and tools for assembly, are difficult to install, and often lack sufficient clearance for cable attachment, leading to inefficiencies in installation and risk of lost components.
Innovation Solution
A self-contained connector with a U-shaped member and integrated plates, featuring a neck portion for improved access and a wedge mechanism for secure cable attachment, ensuring all parts remain inseparable during use except for maintenance, thus simplifying installation and preventing component loss.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional connectors with multiple parts are used, then secure cable attachment is achieved, but installation complexity and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate connector components (U-shaped member, plates, fastening elements) into a single integrated connector assembly. The U-shaped member is permanently attached to plates that cover the panel opening, creating a unified structure that maintains cable security while eliminating the need for multiple separate parts and tools during installation.
2Ease of operation
If traditional connectors without neck portion are used, then structural simplicity is maintained, but cable access and installation ease deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The connector structure is segmented into distinct functional portions: a U-shaped member for cable receipt, a neck portion providing access clearance, and plates for panel coverage. This segmentation allows the neck portion to specifically address cable access difficulties without requiring complete redesign of the entire connector structure.
3Reliability
If connectors requiring multiple assembled parts are used, then secure connection is achieved, but risk of component loss and assembly errors increases
Solution Approach 1:
By permanently interconnecting the U-shaped member, plates, and fastening elements into a single integrated assembly, the patent eliminates the risk of components being lost during assembly or use. The unified structure ensures all necessary parts remain together while maintaining secure cable attachment capability.
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 2
Figure 4~5
AI summary
A connector for connecting a panel of a bridge platform or other scaffolding to an underlying cable for supporting the panel. A first plate is adapted to at least partially cover an opening in the panel and has first and second slots therein. A second plate is received in the first slot and is pivotally attached to the first plate and has first and neck portions defined by the pivotal attachment and a second portion attached to the neck portion. The second portion is arcuate shaped and sized to pass below the first plate then back toward the first plate, and a terminal end portion thereof is received in the second slot to define a closed position to cradle the cable and is secured or locked in the closed position. The neck portion suspends the second portion at a distance below the first plate to provide for easier receiving of the cable therein. Another such connector comprises first and second abutting parts which at least partially overlying an opening in the panel. An arcuate portion of the second part cradles the cable and its free end portion is received in an aperture in the first part and secured in this closed position. A neck portion suspends the second portion at a distance below the first part. Another such connector comprises first and second hingedly joined plates for lying on the panel and for at least partially overlying an opening in the panel. An arcuate member is attached to the first plate for receiving the cable. A free end portion of the arcuate member is received in an aperture in the second plate. A wedge is receivable between a head portion on the free end portion and the second plate to retain the free end portion in the second plate aperture. The wedge has an opening in which a member attached to one of the joined plates is received so that the wedge is inseparable from the joined plates.