Shielded Cable Foil Stripping by Tensioned Radial Cutting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for removing the shielding foil from shielded electric cables are non-uniform, prone to damaging the cable, and not suitable for non-circular cables, with issues of foil scraps and complex operation.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus and process that tension and cut the shielding foil using positioning and cutting means, allowing for precise and uniform removal without damaging the cable, suitable for various cable types, including bipolar and coaxial cables.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If air jet is used to remove shielding foil, then the foil can be separated from the cable, but the cutting profile becomes non-uniform and foil scraps remain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the air jet system with a mechanical cutting system consisting of a cutting blade that physically severs the shielding foil. This mechanical approach provides precise control over the cutting action, ensuring uniform cutting profiles and complete foil separation without leaving scraps, while maintaining efficient foil removal capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of the removal mechanism from pneumatic (air jet) to mechanical (cutting blade). This parameter change transforms the removal process from a force-based separation to a controlled cutting action, achieving both high productivity and manufacturing precision in the cutting profile
2Ease of operation
If cable is inserted into closed cavity for foil removal, then the operation can be performed, but the foil may contact inner walls causing deformation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic cutting system where the cutting blade moves radially toward the cable rather than the cable being inserted into a fixed cavity. This dynamic approach allows the cutting operation to be performed in an open environment, preventing foil contact with cavity walls and maintaining foil integrity while ensuring complete cutting operation
3Productivity
If rotating cable and apparatus is used for cutting, then the foil can be severed, but the cutting position becomes variable and non-repeatable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a control system that monitors and controls the cutting blade position and movement with high precision. This feedback mechanism ensures repeatable cutting positions and consistent cutting quality, eliminating the variability associated with manual rotation methods while maintaining efficient foil cutting capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a fixed apparatus configuration where the cutting blade geometry and positioning system create a reproducible cutting pattern. This copying approach ensures that each cutting operation replicates the same precise cutting profile and position, achieving high measurement precision and repeatability
4Productivity
If conventional foil removal process is used, then the shielding foil can be removed, but the process is complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the foil removal process into distinct functional components: a positioning system for cable alignment, a cutting blade for precise severing, and a control system for coordination. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently, simplifying the overall process while maintaining complete foil removal capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs a multi-functional apparatus that combines cable positioning, cutting, and foil removal capabilities in a single integrated system. This universal device performs multiple operations simultaneously or in sequence, reducing process complexity and time compared to conventional multi-step procedures
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus (10) for removing an end portion (3a) of the shielding foil (3) of a shielded electric cable (1) is described, wherein an end portion (1a) of said cable (1) has at least one shielding foil (3) which covers at least one conductor (2, 20) equipped with a covering layer (5, 50), wherein at least one end portion (3a) of said shielding foil (3) is exposed. The apparatus (10) comprises positioning means (14, 15) for positioning said shielding foil (3) of said at least one conductor (2, 20) in at least one tensioning position, moving means (9a) adapted to operate a relative tensioning motion between said positioning means (14, 15) and said cable (1) to cause the tensioning of said end portion (3a) of the shielding foil (3), cutting means (8a, 8b) provided with a cutting surface (81a, 81b); and moving means (19) configured to move said cutting means (8a, 8b) with respect to said foil to a tensioning position, preferably at least along a radial direction with respect to the longitudinal axis (X) of said cable (1), to carry out the cutting of the foil.