Cable Connector Clocking Device for Precise Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for assembling cable connectors at precise clock angles are inaccurate and prone to slippage, causing user discomfort and premature wear due to the need for manual tightening and small grip surfaces.
Innovation Solution
A cable connector clocking device with a socket adapter sub-assembly and adapter holder sub-assembly that includes indicia for precise alignment and secure retention at desired clock angles, reducing slippage and user strain through a larger engagement surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional vice clamp with small grip surface is used to secure the socket at a predetermined clock angle, then the socket can be retained during assembly, but the user experiences discomfort and wrist pain due to excessive manual tightening force required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a clocking device as an intermediary tool between the user and the socket assembly process. This device includes a clocking indicator that interfaces with the cable connector and a clocking scale on the backshell, mediating the angle control function and eliminating the need for excessive manual tightening force while maintaining reliable socket retention
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action by providing predetermined clock angle markings (e.g., 0°, 45°, 90°, 135°) on the backshell before assembly begins. The clocking indicator aligns with these pre-marked angles during assembly, allowing the user to achieve precise angle control without excessive force or discomfort
2Strength
If the backshell is torqueed to secure the cable connector, then the connector is fixed to the cable, but the cable connector may slip or rotate from the desired clock angle due to insufficient friction or improper alignment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback through the clocking indicator mechanism that provides real-time visual feedback during assembly. The indicator displays the current clock angle relative to the pre-marked scale on the backshell, allowing the user to adjust the connector position before final torqueing, ensuring both secure fixation and precise angle accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-marking the backshell with accurate clock angle references (0°, 45°, 90°, 135°) before the assembly process begins. This preliminary preparation enables precise angle setting and prevents slippage or rotation during torqueing, as the connector can be accurately positioned and secured in one operation
3Reliability
If manual tightening of the vice clamp is used to prevent slippage, then the socket can be securely held, but premature wear of the clamp jaws occurs due to excessive force
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a clocking device as an intermediary that performs the angle control function without requiring excessive clamping force. The device includes a clocking indicator and scale system that mediates the positioning process, allowing secure socket holding with minimal force and preventing premature wear of the clamp jaws
Data Source
AI summary
A cable connector clocking assembly for clocking and torqueing a cable connector. In one example, the clocking assembly has a socket adapter sub-assembly configured to be mounted in an adapter holder sub-assembly. The socket adapter sub-assembly includes a socket portion and an adapter portion having a generally cylindrical body portion connected to the socket portion. The adapter portion also has at least one indicium configured to indicate a clock angle of a cable connector when the cable connector is connected to the socket portion. The clocking assembly also includes an adapter holder sub-assembly comprising a clamp portion and a face portion having a plurality of indicia representative of different clock angles. The clamp portion has an unclamped configuration, wherein the socket sub-assembly can be rotated to a desired clock angle, and a clamped configuration, wherein the socket sub-assembly is securely retained in the clamp portion at the desired clock angle.