Snap-Latching Cable Tray Joints for Tool-Free Wide-Segment Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cable tray systems face difficulties in assembling wider segments, particularly at high mounting locations, due to irregularities in hot-dip galvanizing and thickened wall thickness from corrosion protection coatings, leading to clogged eyelets and narrow gaps that complicate installation.
Innovation Solution
The cable tray system employs complementary mechanical connecting elements with ramp-shaped latching elements and corresponding mating receptacles on the side cheeks, allowing segments to be assembled tool-free by resiliently bending into a latching connection, enabling both horizontal and vertical assembly and facilitating easy replacement of segments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If cable tray segments are connected by traditional bolting or retaining clips, then the connection is secure, but the assembly process becomes complex and requires tools
Solution Approach 1:
The cable tray segments are equipped with self-latching connecting elements that automatically engage and lock when segments are brought together, eliminating the need for external tools or complex assembly procedures. The connecting elements perform the fastening function automatically through their own mechanical action.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts the fastening function from separate bolts and clips, integrating it directly into the cable tray segment structure itself. The connecting elements are built-in features of the segments, removing the need for separate fastening components and simplifying the overall connection system.
2Reliability
If corrosion protection coatings are applied to cable tray segments, then corrosion resistance is improved, but the wall thickness increases and gaps become narrower
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting elements are designed in advance to accommodate the presence of corrosion protection coatings. The geometry and tolerances of the connecting features are predetermined to ensure proper engagement even when coating thickness varies, preventing assembly difficulties before they occur.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention adjusts the dimensional parameters of the connecting elements and engagement features to compensate for the additional thickness introduced by corrosion protection coatings. By modifying these parameters, the system maintains proper fit and function despite the coating-induced thickness increase.
3Reliability
If hot-dip galvanizing is applied to cable tray segments, then corrosion protection is enhanced, but irregularities occur that clog eyelets and openings
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting elements and engagement features are designed with preliminary compensatory measures against the irregularities caused by hot-dip galvanizing. The design anticipates potential clogging or misalignment and incorporates features that prevent these issues from affecting assembly, such as enlarged clearance zones or self-aligning geometries.
4Adaptability or versatility
If cable tray segments are made wider for better cable capacity, then cable accommodation is improved, but threading segments together becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The invention introduces vertical engagement features in addition to horizontal connecting elements. By utilizing the vertical dimension for latching and locking, the system enables secure connection of wider segments without increasing the complexity of the horizontal threading operation. The multi-dimensional connecting features guide and secure segments simultaneously.
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
This design simplifies the assembly of cable tray segments, allows for easy replacement, and ensures a secure, gap-free connection, improving the modularity and ergonomics of the system by avoiding the need for tools or screws.
Implementation Method 1
the complementary mechanical connecting elements are set up, when two corresponding ends of the cable tray segments are plugged together in the longitudinal direction of the cable tray segments and also in the vertical direction of the cable tray segments, to resiliently bend the ends towards each other until a desired connecting position is reached
Data Source
AI summary
A cable tray system has two or more cable tray segments, the cable tray segments each having a cable tray underside and two cable tray side cheeks which laterally delimit the cable tray underside and form a substantially U-shaped cross section. A connecting section is provided at one end of one cable tray segment and one end of another cable tray segment can be connected in or on this connecting section with complementary mechanical connecting elements by means of a clamping or latching connection. When two corresponding ends of the cable tray segments are plugged together in the longitudinal direction of the cable tray segments and also in the vertical direction of the cable tray segments, the ends are resiliently bent towards each other until a desired connection position is reached and form a snap-in connection that locks in the longitudinal and vertical directions.