Modular Cable Channel Connectors for Flexible Cable Layouts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cable channels are expensive and inflexible, requiring multiple specific configurations for different cable setups in vehicles, which increases manufacturing costs and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A modular cable channel system comprising identical cable housings with releasable connectors that can be connected geometrically in various configurations, allowing for cost-effective adaptation to specific cable requirements, including longitudinal and transverse arrangements, using latching or form-fitting connections and spring forces for secure assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If cable channels are designed with specific configurations for different cable setups, then cable security and protection are improved, but manufacturing costs and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cable channel is divided into multiple individual cable housings (14) that can be connected together. Each housing can be independently manufactured as a standard module, eliminating the need to produce different complete channel configurations for different cable setups. The housings are segmented with connectors that allow geometric arrangement (longitudinal and transverse connections) to adapt to various cable configurations while maintaining uniform manufacturing processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The cable housings are designed as universal modules that can serve multiple functions and configurations. Each housing contains a cable receiving space (23) and can be connected to other identical housings through connectors (40, 42) in different geometric arrangements. This universal design allows a single housing type to accommodate various cable setups through different connection patterns rather than requiring different housing designs.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple specific cable channel configurations are produced, then adaptability to different cable requirements is improved, but manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the cable channel into identical, standardized housings (14) with uniform connectors (40, 42), the system enables adaptability through geometric arrangement rather than through producing multiple specialized channel types. This segmentation allows a single manufacturing process to produce all housing units, significantly reducing tooling costs and production complexity while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The cable channel system becomes dynamically configurable through the releasable connectors (40, 42) that allow housing units to be assembled and disassembled in different geometric patterns. This dynamic assembly capability provides adaptability to various cable configurations without requiring dynamic manufacturing processes, keeping production simple and cost-effective.
3Ease of operation
If cable housings are connected with releasable connectors, then adaptability and ease of assembly are improved, but connection reliability may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The connectors (40, 42) are designed with preliminary positioning features that guide the housing units into correct alignment during assembly. The connectors include guiding surfaces and engagement features that automatically position the housings correctly when brought together, ensuring reliable connection without requiring complex alignment procedures or specialized assembly tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector design incorporates simple, robust mechanical features that prioritize ease of assembly and disassembly. The connectors are designed as simple mechanical elements rather than permanent bonds, allowing for easy reconfiguration while maintaining sufficient connection reliability for the application. The simplicity of the connector design reduces manufacturing cost and assembly complexity.
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
Enables flexible and economical production of cable channels that can be tailored to various cable configurations, reducing the need for multiple channel types and simplifying installation, while maintaining cable security and mechanical protection.
Implementation Method 1
The releasable connection can be maintained as a result of a spring force acting between the two cable housings transversely to the channel longitudinal direction. To this end, at least one spring element can be arranged on an outer side of the cable housing, which spring element acts with a spring force on the further cable housing transversely to the channel longitudinal direction.
Data Source
AI summary
A cable channel for receiving at least one cable includes a first cable housing and a second cable housing. The first cable housing includes a first connector and the second cable housing includes a first mating connector releasably connected to the first connector arranging the first and second cable housings together.