Cable Support Structure with Integrated Retention to Reduce Wear
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing support structures for cables lack effective retention mechanisms, leading to inadvertent movement and wear, particularly in partially bent configurations, which can result in fatigue and reduced long-term performance.
Innovation Solution
A support structure with a body portion extending circumferentially about an axis, featuring retention structures that project from the walls to securely hold the cable in place, providing a snug fit and reducing the likelihood of movement, and optionally allowing for flexibility to accommodate different orientations and materials like metal, plastic, or composite materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing support structures are used without retention mechanisms, then the structure is simpler, but the cable experiences inadvertent movement and wear leading to reduced reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is divided into distinct functional segments: a body portion for cable reception and retention structures for securing the cable. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function effectively while maintaining overall structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The retention structures are pre-configured on the support structure to automatically engage and retain the cable when installed. This preliminary action prevents cable movement before wear or fatigue can occur, ensuring reliability without requiring complex active retention mechanisms.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If retention structures are added to prevent cable movement, then cable wear and fatigue are reduced, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The retention structures are merged with the body portion to form an integrated support structure. This combining of functions into a single unified component reduces the number of separate parts that need to be manufactured and assembled, thereby maintaining ease of manufacture while providing effective cable retention.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure is designed with multi-functionality, where the body portion and retention structures work together to provide both cable support and cable retention functions. This universal design allows a single component to perform multiple functions, simplifying the manufacturing process.
3Reliability
If the support structure provides a snug fit for the cable, then cable movement is minimized, but the handling and installation difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The retention structures are designed with dynamic characteristics that allow them to flex or adjust during cable installation, making it easier to insert the cable. Once installed, the same structures provide a snug fit that minimizes cable movement, thus achieving both ease of installation and position stability.
Data Source
AI summary
A support structure is provided for supporting a cable. The support structure includes a body portion extending circumferentially about an axis. The body portion includes a first wall, a second wall extending substantially parallel to the first wall, and a third wall coupled between the first wall and the second wall. The first wall, the second wall, and the third wall define an opening extending along a circumferential length of the body portion. The body portion receives the cable within the opening. A retention structure is coupled to the first wall and projects from the first wall towards the second wall. The retention structure extends substantially parallel to the third wall. The retention structure retains the cable within the opening.