Cable Bend Limiter With Ball Joints And Washers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cable bend limiters fail to optimally manage bending in dynamic applications, particularly in terms of allowing longitudinal extension, torsional rotation, smooth continuous bending, minimizing inner diameter constriction, adjustability of the minimum bend radius, ease of assembly, and reducing parts count while preventing damage to communication cables.
Innovation Solution
A cable bend limiter comprising inner and outer balls, cylindrical sleeves, and truncated hemispherical washers that allow for adjustable bending by varying the axial alignment of inner ball sections within outer ball sections, with interlocking threads and washers to reduce friction and prevent metal-on-metal contact, enabling adjustable bend radius and smooth bending.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional cable bend limiters are used, then cable bending is restricted, but longitudinal extension and torsional rotation are not allowed
Solution Approach 1:
The bend limiter is divided into multiple segments (first bend limiter portion and second bend limiter portion) that can move relative to each other. This segmentation allows the device to restrict harmful bending while permitting longitudinal extension and torsional rotation through the relative movement between segments.
Solution Approach 2:
The bend limiter employs dynamic elements including a ball joint mechanism that allows rotational movement and a spring mechanism that provides flexible longitudinal extension. These dynamic components enable the device to adapt to cable movements while maintaining bend restriction.
2Reliability
If rigid bend restriction is applied, then bending is prevented, but smooth continuous bending is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The ball joint mechanism uses spherical surfaces that allow smooth rotational movement while maintaining controlled bend angles. The curved surfaces enable continuous bending motion without abrupt stops or jerky movements, ensuring smooth cable routing.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring mechanism allows the bend limiter to change its structural parameters dynamically - compressing and expanding to accommodate cable movement while maintaining the minimum bend radius. This parameter change enables smooth bending without compromising bend restriction.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple components are used for adjustability, then bend radius control is improved, but parts count increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device combines multiple functions into integrated components - the ball joint mechanism simultaneously provides rotational adjustment and structural support, while the spring mechanism combines longitudinal flexibility with bend radius control. This merging reduces the number of separate parts while maintaining adjustability.
Solution Approach 2:
The ball joint and spring mechanisms serve multiple functions: they enable bend radius adjustment, allow longitudinal extension, permit torsional rotation, and maintain structural integrity. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components for each feature.
Data Source
AI summary
A cable bend limiter provides one or more joints including alternating sleeves and outer ball sections enclosing inner ball sections. Friction is controlled by washers at, or low friction surface treatments on, either side of the outer ball sections.