Cable Fixing Device Locking Ring Strain Relief

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing fixing devices for cables to housing bushings are not user-friendly and lack security, particularly in terms of easy handling and high tensile force absorption.

Innovation Solution

A simple and secure fixing device design featuring a locking ring with a feed-through channel and a set screw or other fixing elements for easy installation and high tensile force absorption, including a sealing element for protection, which allows for direct plug-in connections and strain relief without additional components.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If conventional fixing devices are used, then cable fixation is achieved, but handling is difficult and installation is complex

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovehandlingVSAvoidcomplexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The locking ring integrates multiple functions into a single component: it provides cable clamping through the fixing element, mechanical locking through engagement with the housing, and strain relief through its flexible design. This merging of functions eliminates the need for separate strain relief components and simplifies the overall assembly, directly resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and device complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The locking ring serves multiple purposes simultaneously: it secures the cable to the housing, provides strain relief, enables tool-free installation through the set screw mechanism, and maintains environmental sealing. This multi-functionality allows a single component to replace what would traditionally require multiple separate parts, improving handling while reducing overall system complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Strength

If simple fixing structures are used, then device complexity is reduced, but tensile force absorption is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetensile force absorptionVSAvoidstructure
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The locking ring incorporates a degree of flexibility through its dynamic design, allowing it to deform and absorb tensile forces while maintaining the cable connection. The set screw mechanism provides adjustable clamping force that can accommodate varying tensile loads. This dynamic capability enables the simple structure to absorb very high tensile forces without requiring complex reinforcement structures

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Strength

If multiple components are used for strain relief, then tensile force absorption is improved, but device complexity and installation difficulty increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestrain reliefVSAvoidnumber of components
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The locking ring merges the strain relief function with the cable clamping and locking functions in a single integrated component. The flexible ring structure inherently provides strain relief while the set screw mechanism secures the cable, eliminating the need for separate strain relief components and reducing the total number of parts to be assembled

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

4Productivity

If conventional fixing methods are used, then cable fixation is achieved, but installation requires multiple steps and tools

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation speedVSAvoidinstallation ease
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The set screw mechanism on the locking ring enables a self-adjusting clamping action that secures the cable without requiring additional tools or complex installation procedures. The flexible locking ring self-adjusts to accommodate different cable sizes and provides automatic strain relief, allowing installers to complete the fixation process quickly and easily in a single operation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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 solution provides a user-friendly and secure cable fixation with high tensile force absorption and protection against environmental factors, ensuring easy and safe installation while eliminating the need for separate strain relief components.

Implementation Method 1

The fixing element can be designed as a set screw which can be screwed into a radial threaded hole in the locking ring

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Implementation Method 2

The locking ring is provided with at least one fixing element for axially fixing the locking ring on the outer circumference of the cable

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical Force: Mechanical Force

Implementation Method 3

corresponding locking means are formed on the locking ring and on the housing for locking the cable to the housing bushing

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical Fastening: Mechanical Fastener

Implementation Method 4

the fixing device can also be designed with a sealing element, in particular with a radially acting O-ring, in a high protection class

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSealing:

Data Source

PatentEP2382693B1Fixing device for fixing a cable at a housing feed-through
Publication Date: 2019.07.10 WEIDMULLER INTERFACE GMBH & CO
  • EP2382693B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2382693B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2382693B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to a fixing device for cables that comprise at least one conductor (2), which is provided with at least one insulation (3), on a housing feed-through (4) of a housing (5), wherein the fixing device (1) comprises a locking ring (13) that can be fixed axially on the outer circumference of the cable and that has a cable feed-through channel, wherein the locking ring (13) is fixed on the housing (5) in a locking manner.