Support structure for supporting a cable
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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 increased maintenance costs.
Innovation Solution
A support structure comprising a body portion with retention structures that project from the walls to securely hold the cable in place, providing a snug fit and reducing the likelihood of movement, with optional orientation changes for enhanced retention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a support structure is used to hold a cable, then the cable is supported and positioned, but the cable can still move inadvertently causing wear and fatigue
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is divided into multiple functional segments: a body portion with an opening to receive the cable, and separate retention structures that can be independently positioned along the cable. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally - the body provides structural support while the retention structures provide localized retention at critical points, preventing cable movement and wear.
Solution Approach 2:
The retention structures are pre-configured on the support structure body before cable installation. They are positioned at predetermined locations along the opening to anticipate and prevent cable movement before it occurs. This preliminary positioning ensures that when the cable is installed, it is immediately secured against wear and fatigue without requiring adjustment or additional components.
2Reliability
If retention structures are added to prevent cable movement, then cable wear is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The retention structures are merged with the body portion to form an integrated support structure. Rather than being separate components that require assembly, the retention structures are formed as part of the body portion itself, either through integral forming or by coupling retention structures to the body. This merging reduces the number of separate parts, simplifies assembly, and lowers overall device complexity while maintaining effective cable retention.
Solution Approach 2:
The body portion serves multiple functions: it provides the structural framework, defines the opening for cable reception, and supports the retention structures. The retention structures themselves serve dual purposes by both retaining the cable and potentially guiding its positioning. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components, thereby simplifying the overall device complexity.
3Ease of manufacture
If the retention structure is fixed in orientation, then manufacturing is simpler, but adaptability to different cable positions is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The retention structure is designed with dynamic characteristics, allowing it to change orientation or position. Rather than being rigidly fixed, the retention structure can be adjusted to different angles or positions to accommodate various cable installation requirements. This dynamic capability enables the same retention structure to adapt to different cable positions and orientations while maintaining effective retention, thereby providing versatility without requiring multiple specialized components.
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.