Cold Shrink Assembly Band Core Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional cold shrink products face difficulties in removing the pull cord from the splice due to it getting stuck, and taking apart the plastic tube can be time-consuming and challenging.
Innovation Solution
A cold shrink assembly with two tapered cores and a band or strap that holds them in place until the insulating material is installed, allowing the cores to push out for easy removal and ensuring the band does not get stuck, facilitating the deposition of the insulating material over the splice.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a pull cord is used to unwind the plastic core, then the core can be removed, but the pull cord gets stuck inside the splice making removal difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the problematic pull cord function from the system by using a separate removal tool that engages with the core externally. The removal tool has a hooked end that catches the core from the outside, allowing the core to be pulled out without any cord getting stuck inside the splice.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a removal tool as an intermediary device between the installer and the core. This tool serves as a mediator that interacts with the core's external features (protrusions or grooves) to enable removal without direct contact between the installer's hand and the core, preventing the sticking problem.
2Ease of manufacture
If a plastic tube is used to hold the insulating material, then the material can be delivered, but taking apart the tube is time-consuming and difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the plastic tube into two separable halves that can be easily divided. The tube includes a first half and a second half that can be pulled apart to release the insulating material, eliminating the need to cut or disassemble a continuous tube structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the tube structure dynamic by designing it with movable or separable components. The tube transitions from a closed, intact structure during delivery to an open, separated structure during installation, allowing quick access to the insulating material without time-consuming disassembly.
3Reliability
If the insulating material is contracted over the splice, then proper insulation is achieved, but the cores must be removed which can be difficult with conventional designs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the core with self-removal features where the core's own structure (protrusions or grooves) enables its extraction. The core includes external features that engage with the removal tool, allowing the core to be pulled out through its own structural characteristics without requiring additional complex mechanisms.
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
Enables efficient installation and removal of the cold shrink material without the band getting stuck, saving time and preventing contamination, while ensuring proper insulation of electrical wires or splices.
Implementation Method 1
cold shrink material that contracts over the electrical wires or splice when the cores are removed
Data Source
AI summary
A cold shrink assembly includes a first member, a second member, a shrink fit joint and a band. The first member has a tapered shape and includes a first opening or first notch. The second member has a tapered shape and includes a second opening or second notch. The shrink fit joint is disposed over a portion of the first and second members. The band is configured to secure the first and second members in a predetermined position. The band extends through the first opening or first notch, along a first portion of an outer surface of the cold shrink assembly, through the second opening or second notch, and loops back to the first opening or first notch along a second portion of the outer surface of the cold shrink assembly.