Tool-less Cable Trough Coupler with Self-locking Barb
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cable routing systems for optical fibers and other telecommunications cables require cumbersome hardware for joining trough members, making them difficult to modify and reconfigure.
Innovation Solution
A cable trough system featuring a coupler with a locking element and clip mechanism that allows for tool-less connection and disconnection of trough members, enabling flexible and adaptable cable routing without the need for additional hardware.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional hardware is used for joining trough members, then the connection strength is sufficient, but the device complexity increases and ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element integrates multiple functions into a single component: it provides the locking action, the clip member provides the coupling action, and the barb provides the engagement action. This merging of functions eliminates the need for separate hardware components while maintaining connection strength and improving ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupler is designed to be self-locking through the interaction of the barb with the clip member. When the trough member is inserted, the barb automatically engages with the clip member to secure the connection without requiring additional tools or complex assembly procedures, thereby improving ease of operation while maintaining structural integrity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple hardware components are used for joining trough members, then the connection reliability is improved, but the ease of repair and reconfiguration deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The coupler is divided into distinct functional segments: the body for structural support, the locking element with clip member for coupling, and the barb for engagement. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently while working together as an integrated system, enabling easy reconfiguration without requiring multiple separate hardware pieces.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking element serves multiple functions: it locks the trough member in place, provides the clip member for coupling, and includes the barb for engagement with the trough member's slot. This multi-functionality reduces the number of hardware components needed while maintaining connection reliability and improving reconfigurability.
3Ease of manufacture
If traditional coupling methods are used, then the connection strength is maintained, but the ease of manufacture and installation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The traditional mechanical fastening system is replaced with a simpler insertion-based mechanism. The trough member is inserted into the coupler body, and the locking element with barb automatically engages with the slot in the trough member, eliminating the need for complex assembly operations while maintaining connection reliability through the self-locking mechanism.
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 system provides a modular and easily reconfigurable cable management solution, reducing the complexity of cable rearrangement and enhancing adaptability in telecommunications facilities.
Implementation Method 1
a first arm extending from the main body, the first arm being configured to flex relative to the main body
Data Source
AI summary
Clips, couplers, systems, and methods for joining two or more trough members. A cable trough system includes a first trough member including an exterior surface with a slot, and a clip including first and second ends positioned in the slot. The system includes a coupler including a body, and a locking element including a main body, a clip member configured to couple the main body to the coupler, a first arm extending from the main body, the first arm being configured to flex relative to the main body, and a first barb coupled to the first arm. When the first trough member is fully inserted into the coupler, the first barb engages the first end of the clip in the slot to couple the first trough member to the coupler.