D-Sub Cable Connector Strain Relief for Variable Cable Bundles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cable connectors, such as D-Sub connectors, are complex to mount and cannot easily adapt to different cable configurations or bundles, including cable harnesses, and the strain-relief member is difficult to release when the backshell is closed.
Innovation Solution
A cable connector design featuring a backshell with a cable guide-through-opening and a strain-relief member that protrudes into a recess, allowing for secure fixation and easy assembly of multiple cable sizes or bundles, with clamping elements and a zip tie for adjustable strain-relief, enabling secure cable retention without requiring the backshell to be opened.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional strain-relief member with legs and burrs is used, then the cable is securely held in the backshell, but the assembly process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The strain relief member is divided into two functional parts: a clamping element that secures the cable and a strain relief portion that absorbs tension. This segmentation allows each part to be optimized independently, simplifying the overall assembly process while maintaining secure cable retention.
Solution Approach 2:
The strain relief function is extracted from the traditional complex leg-and-burr structure and implemented through a simplified clamping element that can be easily attached to the cable exterior, eliminating the need for complex interference engagements with the backshell.
2Reliability
If a fixed strain-relief structure is used, then the cable is securely retained, but the connector cannot adapt to different cable configurations or bundles
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping element is designed to be adjustable and adaptable to different cable diameters and configurations. The strain relief member can be positioned at different locations along the cable, allowing the same connector design to accommodate various cable sizes and bundle configurations while maintaining secure retention.
Solution Approach 2:
The strain relief member serves multiple functions: it clamps the cable securely, provides strain relief, and can be positioned to accommodate different cable configurations. This multi-functionality allows a single design to handle various cable types and sizes without requiring multiple specialized components.
3Reliability
If the backshell is closed to secure the connector, then protection is improved, but releasing the strain-relief member becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The strain relief member is designed to be detachable from the cable exterior, allowing it to be removed independently without requiring access to the interior chamber or opening the backshell. This extraction of the release function simplifies maintenance and assembly operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamping element is designed to be easily attachable and detachable from the cable by simple manual operations, allowing users to service or replace the strain relief member without requiring special tools or opening the protected backshell enclosure.
Data Source
AI summary
A cable connector is provided having a backshell defining an interior chamber, wherein the backshell has a cable-guide-through-opening, through which a cable can be guided into the interior chamber; and the cable connector has a strain-relief member for providing a strain-relief to the cable. In order to make an inexpensive and easy to assemble cable connector, that allows multiple sizes of cables or a bundle of cables to enter the backshell by providing sufficient clamping force such that the cable or cables is/are not easily removed, the backshell has at least a first recess extending to the interior chamber; the strain-relief member is adapted to be fixed to an exterior of the cable, and the strain-relief member protrudes from the interior chamber into the first recess for providing the strain-relief to the cable.