Cable End Connection Assembly for Strong Routing-Friendly Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cable connection assemblies for weightlifting machines do not provide a strong, durable connection while also being easily assembled and disassembled, and they can damage the cable during use.
Innovation Solution
A connection assembly comprising a base, holder, and shell with threaded engagements, a resilient ring, and fasteners to securely hold an enlarged cable end piece, allowing easy assembly and disassembly without specialized tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a large connection assembly is used at the end of the cable, then the connection strength and durability are improved, but the ease of routing the cable through pulleys and openings deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connection assembly is divided into multiple components: a base portion that attaches to the cable end, a holder portion that receives the cable, and a shell that encloses them. This segmentation allows the cable end to be prepared separately (with the base) and then easily inserted into the holder through the shell, facilitating routing while maintaining connection strength
Solution Approach 2:
The holder is received within the cavity of the base, and both are enclosed within the shell, creating a nested structure. The cable passes through the holder which is nested in the base, allowing the cable end to be securely connected without requiring the entire assembly to be large or complex
2Reliability
If a strong and durable connection assembly is used, then the reliability of the connection is improved, but the ease of assembly and disassembly deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The cable end is prepared in advance by attaching the base portion to it, creating a pre-assembled cable assembly. This preliminary action allows the cable to be securely prepared before insertion into the holder, ensuring reliable connection while simplifying the final assembly step of simply inserting the prepared cable end into the holder through the shell
Solution Approach 2:
The connection assembly allows for dynamic assembly and disassembly through the removable holder design. The holder can be easily removed from the base by actuating the release mechanism, allowing quick reconfiguration or replacement of cables while maintaining a secure connection when assembled
3Device complexity
If a conventional connection assembly is used, then the structure is simpler, but cable damage during use increases
Solution Approach 1:
The shell encloses the base and holder, providing protective cushioning for the cable connection points before the cable is even inserted. This pre-established protective environment prevents external factors from damaging the cable or connection components during use, while the overall structure remains relatively simple
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
The assembly provides a secure, durable connection that protects the cable and facilitates easy assembly and disassembly, enabling flexible cable routing and re-routing in weightlifting machines.
Implementation Method 1
a ring comprising a resilient material and positioned within the chamber and between the holder and the end wall of the shell, the ring having a ring passage configured to receive the cable therethrough such that the ring extends around the cable
Implementation Method 2
The cavity has a threaded inner surface, and the holder has a threaded outer surface that is threadably engaged with the threaded inner surface of the cavity to removably fix the holder within the cavity
Implementation Method 3
A fastener extends through the shell fastener hole and is received in the base fastener hole to removably fix the base within the chamber of the shell
Data Source
AI summary
A connection assembly for connection to a cable having an enlarged end piece includes a base having a connector at a first end for connection to an attachment and a cavity extending inward from a second end opposite the first end, a holder received within the cavity of the base and removably fixed within the cavity, and a shell having a side wall and an end wall defining a chamber receiving the base and the holder therein, such that the base is removably fixed within the chamber and at least the first end of the base extends out of the chamber. The holder has a passage receiving the cable therethrough, and the holder engages the enlarged end piece of the cable to retain the cable within the passage. The end wall of the shell has an aperture receiving the cable therethrough to engage the holder within the chamber.