Cable Tray Expansion Joint for People Mover Thermal Compensation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Cable tray systems in people mover systems face damage due to expansion and contraction caused by temperature fluctuations, requiring adjustable expansion joints to accommodate changes in roadways and temperature variations.
Innovation Solution
A cable tray expansion joint with horizontally and vertically adjustable components, featuring a slider plate and threaded studs, allows for lateral and vertical movement between adjacent cable trays, incorporating Nylon slider plates and cover plates to manage expansion and contraction while preventing cable damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If cable trays are rigidly connected together, then structural stability is improved, but the system cannot accommodate thermal expansion and contraction
Solution Approach 1:
The expansion joint divides the rigid cable tray system into separate segments that can move independently. The joint consists of multiple components (first body portion, second body portion, slider plate, threaded studs) that allow relative movement between adjacent cable trays while maintaining overall system integrity. This segmentation enables each segment to expand and contract independently in response to temperature changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The expansion joint introduces dynamic elements into the otherwise static cable tray system. The slider plate can move horizontally along the threaded studs, allowing the joint to adapt its configuration in real-time as temperature changes cause expansion or contraction. This dynamic capability enables the system to maintain structural stability while accommodating dimensional changes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If cable trays are made adjustable to accommodate roadway changes, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The expansion joint is designed to perform multiple functions within a single device structure. It provides both horizontal adjustment (via slider plate movement on threaded studs) and vertical adjustment capabilities, allowing it to accommodate various roadway changes including curves and elevation changes. This multi-functionality reduces the need for multiple separate adjustment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The slider plate acts as an intermediary element between the first and second body portions, mediating the relative movement between adjacent cable trays. The threaded studs serve as intermediaries that guide and control the horizontal movement. These intermediary components simplify the overall mechanism by providing straightforward, guided motion paths.
3Reliability
If expansion joints are added to accommodate thermal changes, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The expansion joint converts the harmful effects of thermal expansion and contraction into beneficial controlled movement. Instead of allowing uncontrolled expansion that could damage cables or trays, the joint provides a controlled path for movement through the slider plate and threaded studs. The horizontal slots in the partitions guide the movement and prevent damage while accommodating the dimensional changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The expansion joint is designed with built-in movement capacity before thermal changes occur. The slider plate can move horizontally along the threaded studs, and the cover plates are positioned to accommodate gaps that may develop. This pre-configured movement capability cushions against thermal stresses before they can cause damage to the cable tray system.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The expansion joint effectively absorbs thermal expansion and contraction, ensuring the cable tray system's integrity and adaptability to roadway changes, preventing damage and maintaining system functionality.
Implementation Method 1
A flat slider plate comprised of Nylon or the like is positioned on the bottom wall and is secured thereto
Data Source
AI summary
An expansion joint is disclosed for a cable tray apparatus for a people mover system. An expansion joint is inserted or positioned between a pair of generally rectangular electrical cable trays having first and second ends. The cable trays are connected in an end-to-end relationship. The expansion joint has first and second ends and is positioned between the pair of cable trays so that the first end thereof is connected to the second end of the adjacent cable tray and so that the second end thereof is connected to the first end of the adjacent cable tray. The expansion joint includes body portions which are slidably movable towards one another or slidably movable away from one another to compensate for expansion and contraction of the cable tray apparatus.