Cable Routing Cap and Plug for Toolless Multi-Orientation Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cable management systems for firearm accessories lack features such as toolless installation, secure mounting without a cable, and the ability to route cables in multiple orientations, while being compact, lightweight, and modular.
Innovation Solution
A cable management system comprising a cap with locking members and a plug featuring a tapered profile, allowing toolless installation and secure attachment to a firearm handguard, with crush-ribs to prevent inadvertent removal, and multiple cable routing orientations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional DIY methods (tape, zip ties, rerouting) are used to secure cables, then cable management is achieved, but security and integrity of the cables deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The cable management system is divided into separate functional components: a mounting device with locking members for secure attachment, a cable channel for routing, and a plug for final securing. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally while maintaining overall reliability and ease of installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking members are designed to automatically engage with the handguard slots and secure the mounting device without requiring additional fasteners or complex assembly steps. The system serves itself by using the handguard's existing structure as the anchoring point, eliminating the need for separate mounting hardware.
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing cable management products are used, then cable routing is provided, but integration of toolless installation, secure mounting without cable, and multi-orientation routing deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting device is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides secure attachment to the handguard via locking members, offers cable routing through integrated channels, and enables toolless installation. The cable channel itself serves as both a structural component and a cable management element, eliminating the need for separate cable ties or clips.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the mounting device, cable channel, and cable securing features into a single integrated unit. The cable channel is formed as part of the mounting device structure, and the plug that secures the cable also serves to finalize the mounting process, merging multiple functions into one component system.
3Reliability
If locking members are designed to prevent inadvertent removal, then mounting security is improved, but ease of legitimate removal deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking members are designed with dynamic characteristics that allow them to be rigid during normal operation to prevent inadvertent removal, but can be easily disengaged when intentional force is applied. The locking mechanism transitions from a locked state during use to an unlocked state during removal, providing both security and ease of legitimate removal.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking members are positioned and sized to engage with the handguard slots in a way that prevents accidental disengagement during normal use. The geometry of the locking members and slots is designed to require a specific removal motion or force, preventing inadvertent removal while allowing intentional removal when needed.
Data Source
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AI summary
A cable management device having a cap with cable channels and an aperture through which a plug is removably coupled to secure the cable management device into an accessory mounting slot. The cable channels can be open on a bottom of the device to accept one or more cables and capture them between the cable management device and a surface of the object with the accessory slots. The cable management device enables toolless installation, secured mounting in the absence of a cable, cable routing in multiple orientations and the ability to hold more than one cable at a time.