Integrated Cable Tie Spacer for Adjustable Conductor Routing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing cable securing solutions lack an integrated spacer and tie that can efficiently space and secure cables with a single component, limiting flexibility and adaptability in cable management.

Innovation Solution

A securement member with an integrated spacer and tie, featuring a molded main body with a stepped surface and tapering projections, along with a flexible strap and apertures with ratcheting teeth, allows for secure spacing and adaptation of cable positions, with optional adapters for increased spacing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If separate cable spacers and cable ties are used, then cable management functionality is provided, but device complexity increases and installation efficiency decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation efficiencyVSAvoidnumber of components
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines a cable spacer and cable tie into a single integrated securement member. The main body includes a first portion with a first aperture for spacing and a second portion with a second aperture for securing, eliminating the need for separate spacer and tie components. This merging reduces the number of parts, simplifies installation, and improves overall productivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The securement member performs multiple functions simultaneously: it spaces cables apart using the first portion and secures them using the second portion with the ratcheting strap. This multi-functional design allows a single component to replace what would traditionally require multiple separate tools or devices, enhancing installation efficiency while maintaining comprehensive cable management capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If standard cable ties are used, then cable securing is achieved, but adaptability to different spacing requirements is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespacing adaptabilityVSAvoidinstallation flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The main body is segmented into a first portion with a first aperture for spacing and a second portion with a second aperture for securing. This segmentation allows each portion to perform its specific function independently while being part of a unified structure, providing adaptability for different cable spacing requirements without compromising ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The ratcheting strap mechanism provides dynamic adjustment capability. The strap can be inserted through the second aperture, ratcheted to the appropriate tension, and locked in place, allowing flexible adaptation to various cable bundles and spacing requirements while maintaining simple installation procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentEP3717818B1Cable tie
Publication Date: 2023.12.20 HUBBELL INC
  • EP3717818B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3717818B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3717818B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A securement member for an electrical conductor includes a main body with a body axis and a stepped surface. The stepped surface is perpendicular to the body axis. The stepped surface also extends along a perimeter of the main body. The main body also has a first aperture and a second aperture. Both the first aperture and the second aperture extend through the main body. The electrical conductor further includes a strap integrally formed with the main body. The strap extends away from the main body and has a width less than a width of the first aperture and the second aperture. The strap is selectively receivable within the first aperture and the second aperture in order to secure electrical conductors to the main body.