Machine Tool Cover Cable Routing Without Cable Carriers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cover apparatus for machine tools face challenges in safely and cost-effectively connecting electrical components to a control device or power source, often requiring cumbersome cable carriers that are expensive and space-intensive.
Innovation Solution
The cover apparatus integrates a receiver within the cover element that guides a connection cable directly, eliminating the need for cable carriers by routing the cable through the cover itself, allowing for a more space-efficient and cost-effective connection of electrical components like sensors and switches to a control device or power source.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a cable carrier is used to connect electrical components to a control device, then the connection is reliable and protected, but the device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the cable routing function directly into the cover structure by forming a receiver (groove/channel) within the cover element itself. This integration eliminates the need for separate cable carriers, reducing device complexity while maintaining connection reliability through the protected groove pathway.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the cable carrier component from the system by routing the connection cable directly through the cover element's integrated receiver. This removal of the intermediate cable carrier simplifies the overall structure while still providing adequate cable protection and guidance.
2Strength
If a cable carrier is used to guide the connection cable, then the cable is protected from damage, but the space requirements and manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cable protection function is merged into the cover element by forming a receiver (groove or channel) as an integral part of the cover structure. This eliminates the need for separate cable carrier components, reducing manufacturing steps and costs while still providing adequate cable protection through the integrated groove.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover element serves multiple functions: it provides mechanical coverage/protection, structural support, and cable routing/protection through its integrated receiver. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated cable carrier components, simplifying manufacturing and reducing costs.
3Ease of operation
If electrical components are connected via external cables, then the components are accessible and replaceable, but the risk of collision damage and interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cable routing is merged into the cover structure through the integrated receiver, which protects the connection cable from external collision risks while the electrical components remain accessible at the cover's end region for installation and replacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The receiver (groove/channel) in the cover element acts as an intermediary structure that protects the connection cable from collision damage while still allowing the electrical components to be accessible at the cover end for operation and maintenance.
Data Source
AI summary
The application relates to a cover apparatus for a machine, in particular for a machine tool, comprising a cover formed by at least one cover element. The cover comprises a drive motor that is configured and adapted to move the cover from a closed position into an open position. In addition, at least one electrical component is provided that is arranged at the cover. To connect the electrical component indirectly or directly to a control device or to a power source, a connection cable is provided that extends in a receiver that extends in parallel with the guide rail in at least one guide element or in the at least one cover element.