Cable Foil Removal via Axial Compression and Sacrificial Filler
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for removing cable foils from electrical cables are often time-consuming and prone to damaging underlying components, especially in automated processes, due to the mechanical strength of the foils and variations in cable cross-sections, which can lead to damage during stripping.
Innovation Solution
A method involving compressing the cable foil along the central axis before removal, potentially using an enveloping jacket to loosen the foil and reduce its mechanical load, allowing for easier extraction without damaging the cable's components, and pre-treating the foil with thermal, chemical, or abrasive methods to weaken it at specific points for easier removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the cable foil is cut to remove it from the cable, then the foil can be removed, but the underlying components (insulation layer, electrical conductors, cable shield braid) may be damaged due to variations in cable cross-section and cut depth
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a sacrificial filler layer as an intermediary between the cable foil and the underlying components. This filler layer is positioned to receive cutting actions first, protecting the critical insulation layer, conductors, and shield braid from direct contact with the cutting tool. The filler layer acts as a buffer that absorbs the harmful cutting effect while allowing the foil removal operation to proceed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies beforehand cushioning by placing a protective filler layer in advance between the foil and the components that need protection. This pre-positioned protective layer is designed to be more susceptible to cutting than the underlying components, effectively cushioning them against damage during the foil removal process. The filler layer is strategically positioned to ensure it is the first material encountered by the cutting tool.
2Ease of operation
If embossings are applied to the cable foil to weaken it for easier removal, then manual stripping becomes easier, but the foil is mechanically weakened across the entire cable including areas where removal is not intended
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by providing different structural characteristics to different regions of the cable assembly. Specifically, the filler layer is positioned only in regions where foil removal is intended, while leaving the foil intact and fully functional in regions where removal is not desired. This localized approach allows easy stripping in specific areas without compromising the overall mechanical strength and protective function of the foil elsewhere on the cable.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If a filler layer is provided beneath the cable foil to protect underlying components during cutting, then damage to components is avoided, but the cable becomes more complex and expensive to manufacture with increased weight and circumference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing the filler layer to serve multiple functions simultaneously. The filler layer not only protects underlying components from cutting damage but also facilitates easier foil removal, provides structural support during the removal process, and can be integrated into the existing cable manufacturing workflow. This multi-functionality justifies the additional component by providing multiple benefits rather than just single-purpose protection.
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
Enables reliable and efficient removal of cable foils from electrical cables without damaging the underlying components, facilitating fully automated assembly processes and reducing the complexity and cost of cable production.
Implementation Method 1
the cable foil is compressed in the axial direction along the cable center axis before the cable foil is removed from the cable section to be processed
Implementation Method 2
at least one outer layer of the cable foil facing away from the cable center axis is treated by a thermal treatment, a chemical treatment, an abrasive treatment, or a suction process, or is cut
Implementation Method 3
at least one outer layer of the cable foil facing away from the cable center axis is treated by a thermal treatment, a chemical treatment, an abrasive treatment, or a suction process
Implementation Method 4
at least one outer layer of the cable foil facing away from the cable center axis is treated by a thermal treatment, a chemical treatment, an abrasive treatment, or a suction process
Data Source
Figure 1~5
Figure 6~9
Figure 10~12
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for removing a cable film (5) from a cable section (A), which is to be worked, of an electrical cable (1), according to which method the cable film (5) is compressed in the axial direction along the cable centre axis (M), before the cable film (5) is removed from the cable section (A) which is to be worked.