Charging Connector Cable Module for Slack Control in Tight Spaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic lock devices for vehicle charging connectors face issues with cable slack management, where excessive slack prevents proper release and insufficient slack makes connection difficult, especially in limited installation spaces.
Innovation Solution
A cable module with a retaining member and a cable member that can transition between two positions, allowing for easy connection and slack reduction, featuring a grip portion, guide portions, and an attaching portion to manage cable length and minimize lateral space occupancy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of moving object
If the cable is retained in a bent state to reduce lateral space, then the space occupancy is reduced, but the cable flexibility and connection ease may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The cable member is segmented into an intermediate portion that is bent and retained, a grip portion for manipulation, and a cable portion for connection. This segmentation allows the bent intermediate portion to reduce lateral space occupancy while the separate grip and cable portions maintain the necessary flexibility and ease of connection. The attaching portion with its groove structure enables this segmented configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The cable member utilizes flexible material properties to allow bending of the intermediate portion without compromising overall flexibility. The cable can be bent to reduce lateral space when retained, yet remains flexible enough to be easily manipulated and connected when needed, resolving the contradiction between space reduction and operational ease.
Data Source
AI summary
A cable module includes a retaining member and a cable member. The retaining member includes a base portion, a guide portion, and an attaching portion. The cable member placed on the base portion includes a grip portion and a cable. The guide portion configured to guide the cable is provided on a surface of the base portion. The attaching portion protrudes from the base portion. The retaining member is configured to retain the cable member in a first position and a second position. The length of an intermediate portion of the cable located between the guide portion and the grip portion when the cable member is in the second position is longer than that when the cable member is in the first position. When the cable member is in the second position, the grip portion is attached onto the attaching portion in a condition where the intermediate portion is bent.