Crimp Contact Label Holder Attachment for Automated Wire Marking
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for attaching label holders to electrically conducting wires with crimp contacts are inefficient, often requiring multiple steps and not easily automatable.
Innovation Solution
A method where a fastening tab of the label holder, made of electrically isolating material, is attached to the crimp contact before or during crimping, allowing for a single operative step attachment and simplifying the process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a cable tie is used to fasten the label holder to the wire, then the label holder can be attached to the wire, but the attachment process becomes complex and requires multiple steps
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the label holder attachment with the crimp contact formation into a single integrated process. The fastening tab of the label holder is attached to the crimp contact while the crimp contact is being formed on the wire, merging two separate operations (label holder attachment and crimping) into one simultaneous process, thereby simplifying the overall attachment procedure
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening tab is pre-formed on the label holder with positioning elements (such as rivets or attachment features) that are prepared in advance. This preliminary preparation of the fastening tab allows it to be quickly and easily attached to the crimp contact during the crimping process, eliminating the need for separate attachment steps that would otherwise be required
2Extent of automation
If a cable tie is used to fasten the label holder to the wire, then the label holder can be attached to the wire, but automation of the process becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the label holder attachment with the crimp contact formation into a single integrated process, the invention enables automation. The fastening tab is designed to be attached to the crimp contact during the automated crimping operation, allowing both operations to be performed by automated equipment without requiring manual intervention for separate attachment steps
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening tab serves as an intermediary element that bridges the label holder and the crimp contact. It is designed with specific attachment features that can be easily engaged by automated equipment, facilitating the automation of the attachment process while maintaining ease of operation through its simple design
3Reliability
If the fastening tab is crimped onto the wire conjointly with the contact, then the attachment is secure and efficient, but the fastening tab must be positioned precisely during crimping
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening tab is designed with self-positioning features such as rivets or attachment elements that automatically align and secure the tab to the crimp contact during the crimping process. This self-service mechanism reduces the need for precise manual positioning while ensuring reliable attachment, as the fastening features guide the tab into the correct position during crimping
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening tab acts as an intermediary with built-in positioning features that mediate between the label holder and the crimp contact. These features (such as rivets or attachment elements) provide self-alignment and precise positioning during the crimping process, ensuring reliable connection without requiring high manufacturing precision for the tab's initial placement
Data Source
AI summary
A method is provided for attaching a label holder to an end of an electrically conductive wire provided with a crimp contact wherein, before or during the crimping of the crimp contact onto the end of the wire, a fastening tab of the label holder composed of electrically insulating material is fastened to the crimp contact. An endless tape of label holders and a contact arrangement are also provided.