Cable Runway Divider Clamp for Tool-Free Path Reconfiguration

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Solution Overview

Problem

The installation of cable pathway dividers in data centers is cumbersome and time-consuming due to the need for tool-assisted fastening of metal mounting clips, especially when multiple dividers and adjustments are required.

Innovation Solution

A cable pathway divider system using interlocking post halves with a ring-shaped locking member that clamps onto cross members of a cable runway, allowing for tool-free installation and adjustment, featuring alignment tabs, prongs, sockets, and a hinge mechanism for easy alignment and secure locking.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If metal mounting clips with machine screws and wing nuts are used to attach cable pathway dividers, then secure fastening is achieved, but the installation process becomes cumbersome and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesecure fasteningVSAvoidinstallation time

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting clip is divided into two separate halves that can be independently positioned on opposite sides of the cross member, allowing for easier installation without requiring threading screws through multiple components

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The traditional screw-and-nut fastening system is replaced with a cam-actuated mechanical locking system where rotating the mounting clip halves causes cam surfaces to engage with slots in the cross member, providing secure attachment through pure rotational motion rather than threaded fastening

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple cable pathway dividers are installed and adjusted to meet specific cabling requirements, then cable routing flexibility is improved, but the installation process becomes even more tedious

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecable routing flexibilityVSAvoidinstallation ease

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting clip halves are designed to rotate around the cross member, allowing dynamic adjustment of the divider position along the cross member's length. This rotational capability enables easy repositioning to meet specific cabling requirements without requiring complete removal and reinstallation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The cam surfaces and slots are designed to automatically engage and lock when the mounting clip halves are rotated into position, eliminating the need for separate fastening operations or tools for each adjustment

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS10243334B1Cable pathway divider and method for installing same

Publication Date: 2019.03.26 CHATSWORTH PRODUCTS INC

AI summary

A cable pathway divider, for installation on a cable runway, includes a pair of post halves and a ring-shaped locking member. Each post half includes a base portion and an extension portion, and the base portions of the post halves are arrangeable at opposite sides of a cross member of a cable runway. The post halves are securable to one another from opposite sides of the cross member, via clamping arrangement of the ring-shaped locking member relative to the post halves, such that the extension portions extend into a space above the cable runway to divide the cable runway into at least two cable paths.