Cable Rack Assembly for Flexible UV Emitter Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rack systems for ultraviolet (UV) emitters face challenges with misalignment, lack of flexibility, and inability to accommodate different component sizes or orientations, leading to impaired functionality and increased complexity in installation.
Innovation Solution
A cable rack system comprising flexible cables, clips, and surface mounts that allow for adjustable positioning and securement of UV emitters to various surfaces, including ceilings, floors, and walls, using a sliding frame with wheels for easy installation and maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If rigid components and large extrusions are used in prior rack systems, then structural strength is improved, but flexibility and adaptability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces rigid extrusions with flexible cable assemblies that can bend and adapt to different installation configurations. The cables maintain structural integrity while providing the flexibility needed to accommodate various component sizes and orientations, directly resolving the contradiction between strength and flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The cable rack system transitions from static rigid structures to dynamic flexible cables that can be easily repositioned and reconfigured. This dynamic characteristic allows the system to adapt to different installation scenarios without requiring disassembly, maintaining strength while enabling versatility.
2Stability of the object's composition
If rigid components are used in prior rack systems, then structural stability is improved, but ease of installation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the rigid structure into segmented cable assemblies with modular clips and mounting points. This segmentation allows each component to be independently installed and positioned, greatly simplifying the installation process while maintaining overall structural stability through the coordinated arrangement of segments.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces static rigid components with dynamic flexible cables that can be easily manipulated during installation. The flexibility allows installers to route cables around obstacles and adjust positions without requiring precise alignment, significantly easing installation while maintaining stability through proper tensioning and securing.
3Loss of time
If misalignment occurs in prior rack systems, then installation time is increased, but functionality is impaired
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible cable construction inherently compensates for alignment variations through its ability to bend and conform. This flexibility prevents misalignment from compromising functionality, as the cables can adjust to slight position variations without requiring complete disassembly and reinstallation, thereby reducing time loss while maintaining reliability.
4Quantity of substance
If traditional rack systems are used, then component support capability is improved, but airflow disruption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cable-based support structure presents minimal physical obstruction to airflow compared to traditional rigid rack systems. The thin, flexible cables require much less space and create fewer turbulence zones, reducing airflow disruption while still providing adequate support for UV emitter components through proper cable routing and tensioning.
Data Source
AI summary
A cable rack system apparatus for assisting the user with installation, disinfection, and mounting to a surface includes one or more cables, one or more ultraviolet (“UV”) emitters, one or more clips, and two or more surface mounts. The one or more UV emitters are coupled to the one or more cables with one or more clips. Other embodiments are described herein.