Elastomeric Cable Tie Wedge Locking Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing cable ties, such as nylon and hook and loop types, fail to securely bundle sensitive objects like network cables without damaging them, are difficult to apply, and often do not meet flammability requirements.

Innovation Solution

An elastomeric cable tie with a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) material that features a hingeless wedge and latches, providing flexibility, high friction, and a UL-94 V-0 flame rating, allowing secure bundling without crushing sensitive cables and easy application.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If nylon cable ties are used to bundle cables, then the bundle is secured, but the sensitive objects may be damaged due to insufficient grip

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesecurity of bundleVSAvoiddamage to sensitive objects

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the material parameter from rigid nylon to elastomeric polymer, which fundamentally alters the gripping mechanism. The elastomeric material provides conformal contact and flexible grip that secures the bundle while adapting to the shape of sensitive objects, preventing damage.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The cable tie combines elastomeric material with a reinforced strap and wedge mechanism. This composite structure integrates the soft, conforming properties of elastomer with the structural integrity of the strap and wedge, achieving both secure binding and protection of sensitive objects.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

2Reliability

If hook and loop cable ties are used to provide sufficient grip, then the bundle is securely held, but the application becomes difficult and expensive

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvegrip on bundled objectsVSAvoiddifficulty of application

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The cable tie employs a self-tying mechanism where the elastomeric strap automatically conforms to the bundle shape and the wedge locks it in place. The user simply needs to position the cable tie around the bundle and activate the release mechanism, eliminating the complex manual manipulation required for hook and loop ties.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the mechanical parameter from the interlocking hook-and-loop structure to an elastomeric conformal grip with a wedge lock. This fundamental parameter change simplifies the application process while maintaining secure holding of the bundle.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Reliability

If hook and loop cable ties are used to secure the bundle, then sufficient grip is achieved, but flammability requirements are not met

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvegrip strengthVSAvoidflammability

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the material parameter from traditional nylon or hook-and-loop constructions to elastomeric polymer that meets UL-94 V-0 flammability standards. This material parameter change provides both the necessary grip strength and the required fire resistance for network cable applications.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

4Force

If a tight grip is applied to secure the bundle, then movement resistance is improved, but the risk of damaging sensitive objects increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveresistance to movementVSAvoiddamage to sensitive objects

Core Design Contradiction:

ForceVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the mechanical parameter from rigid tight gripping to elastomeric conformal contact. The elastomeric material naturally provides high friction and grip through conformal contact with the bundle, achieving movement resistance without the need for excessive force that could damage sensitive objects.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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

The elastomeric cable tie effectively secures sensitive cables without damage, provides resistance to movement, and meets flammability standards, making it suitable for network applications.

Implementation Method 1

The cable tie is constructed from an elastomeric material, such as thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), which provides flexibility and high friction

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

The elastomeric material provides flexibility, high friction, and a UL-94 V-0 flame rating

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Implementation Method 3

The head includes a hingeless wedge that extends from the end wall into the channel. When the cable tie is installed around a bundle, the wedge engages the teeth on the strap to secure the cable tie

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical Fastening: Mechanical Fastener

Implementation Method 4

The elastomeric cable tie has a high flammability rating and meets the flammability requirements for many applications, including network cable management

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFlame resistance:

Data Source

PatentUS7866005B2Elastomeric releasable cable tie

Publication Date: 2011.01.11 PANDUIT CORP

AI summary

The present invention is directed toward an elastomeric releasable cable tie having a head and a strap extending from the head. The head includes an end wall, an inner wall and sidewalls. The end wall, inner wall and sidewalls define a channel that extends from an entrance end to an exit end of the head. The head also includes a hingeless wedge extending from the end wall into the channel for engaging the strap.