Cable Marking Device with Directional Signs for Cutting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cable marking systems that use pairs of identical length values are inefficient and prone to errors when the cable is wound in reverse directions, as they require complex calculations to determine the correct cutting position, leading to time wastage and inaccuracies.
Innovation Solution
A cable marking system with pairs of adjacent identical length values, where each pair is spaced one unit apart and marked with distinct signs (+ and -) on either side, allowing for easy cutting regardless of winding direction by adding or subtracting the desired length based on the free end's value and corresponding marks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If pairs of identical length values are marked on the cable, then the cable can be cut without measurement, but complex calculations are required when wound in reverse directions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces asymmetric directional markers (+ and - signs) alongside the pairs of identical length values. These markers indicate the winding direction and eliminate the need for complex calculations by providing clear guidance on which value to use for cutting, thus resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The directional markers act as intermediaries between the marking system and the user. They translate the complex situation of reverse winding into simple visual cues, allowing users to quickly determine the correct cutting position without performing calculations, thereby improving ease of operation while maintaining a relatively simple marking structure
2Ease of operation
If directional winding is enforced for easy identification, then cutting is simplified, but it becomes an impossible constraint in practice
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of enforcing a single winding direction, the patent inverts the approach by making the marking system adaptable to both winding directions. The directional markers (+ and -) are designed to work regardless of which direction the cable is wound, thus preserving flexibility while maintaining ease of identification and operation
Solution Approach 2:
The marking system achieves universality by functioning correctly in both forward and reverse winding scenarios. The combination of identical length values and directional markers creates a multi-functional system that automatically adapts to the winding direction, eliminating the need for separate marking systems for different winding directions
3Measurement precision
If complex calculations are required to determine cutting position, then accurate cutting is possible, but time wastage and errors increase
Solution Approach 1:
The marking system performs the calculation function automatically through its design. The directional markers (+ and -) and paired values are configured so that the correct cutting position is immediately apparent without requiring the user to perform calculations. The system serves itself by encoding the cutting information directly in the visual markers, thus achieving high precision while eliminating time loss
Data Source
Figure 1~3
AI summary
The device has pairs (P1-P3) exhibiting identical length values and spaced from each other at a unit of length, where the device cuts a length section of a cable rolled-up on a lathe. A diameter of the cable is 20-40 mm. Two different marks are formed on sides of the pairs and designed as a plus sign and a minus sign. A cut mark is placed between the two length values of the pairs and arranged at equal distance from the length values, where a distance between the two identical length values of the pairs is greater than or equal to two times a length of a cap. An independent claim is also included for a method for cutting a length section of a cable rolled-up on a lathe.