Modular Cable Protector Lid Opening Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modular cable protectors require labor-intensive and time-consuming processes as workers must repeatedly bend over to open and close multiple connected lids, which is tedious and inefficient, especially in large-scale deployments.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating tool engagement features such as openings and undercuts on the modular cable protector allows users to open the lid while standing, using a tool with vertical rods and horizontal protrusions to exert an upward force, reducing the need for bending.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If workers manually open and close multiple cable protector lids, then the cable protectors can be accessed and secured, but the process becomes labor-intensive and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
A tool is introduced as an intermediary device between the worker and the cable protector lid. The tool engages with the cable protector through openings and undercuts, providing mechanical leverage to open and close lids without requiring workers to bend over manually. This intermediary tool automates the lifting action while maintaining manual control.
Solution Approach 2:
The cable protector design incorporates discrete openings and undercuts as separate functional elements that work together. The openings provide access points for the tool, while the undercuts provide engagement points on the lid. This segmentation allows the tool to interact with specific portions of the cable protector to achieve the opening function.
2Ease of operation
If workers repeatedly bend over to open multiple cable protectors, then all lids can be accessed, but physical strain and labor intensity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The tool serves as a mechanical intermediary that eliminates the need for workers to bend over. By engaging with the cable protector through vertically oriented openings and undercuts, the tool allows workers to apply upward force while standing, transferring the mechanical advantage to the lid-opening process without requiring awkward body positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The solution introduces a vertical dimension to the opening mechanism. Instead of horizontal or manual lifting motions that require bending, the tool engages vertically through openings and uses vertical force application. This dimensional change allows workers to operate from a standing position, improving ergonomics and productivity.
3Device complexity
If traditional hinged lids are used on cable protectors, then the structure remains simple, but the repeated opening and closing process becomes tedious
Solution Approach 1:
The tool acts as a temporary intermediary mechanism that supplements the simple hinged lid structure. The openings and undercuts are added to the existing hinge design, allowing the tool to engage and provide lifting force without replacing the fundamental hinged mechanism. This maintains structural simplicity while dramatically improving ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The openings and undercuts are pre-configured in the cable protector design to anticipate tool engagement. This preliminary preparation of engagement features allows the tool to quickly and easily interact with the lid structure, reducing the effort and time required for repeated opening and closing operations without complicating the overall design.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular cable protector system has a cable protector with a lid that can be easily opened using a tool to removably engage a number of tool engagement features on the cable protector. For example, the tool engagement features can be openings or slots in the upper surface of the cable protector having undercuts extending horizontally beneath the lid from the lower portion of the openings. The tool can have an elongated vertical member with a horizontal protrusions at its lower end that can be inserted into the openings with the horizontal protrusions extending into the undercuts beneath the lid.