Flat Cable Retainer Recess Structure for Secure Easy Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cable retainers often lack sufficient functionality, are expensive, and difficult to manufacture, failing to effectively connect flat cables to external objects.
Innovation Solution
A cable retainer design featuring a base with a fastener, a first portion with a first length, and a second portion with a second length greater than the first, which defines a recess to receive a flat cable, allowing for secure connection to external objects through slits and holes in the cable.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If traditional cable retainers are used, then cable connection is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases and manufacturing difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cable retainer is divided into three distinct portions: a base portion, a first portion, and a second portion. This segmentation allows each portion to be optimized for its specific function while simplifying the overall manufacturing process. The base portion provides structural support and attachment points, the first portion forms the recess cavity, and the second portion creates the engagement structure, making the device easier to manufacture while maintaining reliable cable connection.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using complex fastening mechanisms that require assembly of multiple components, the invention inverts the approach by integrating the fastening function into the molded structure itself. The recess and engagement portions are formed directly in the retainer body through injection molding, eliminating the need for separate fasteners or complex assembly steps, thereby improving both manufacturability and connection reliability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If complex cable retainer designs are used, then cable connection functionality is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cable retainer is designed with multi-functionality: the base portion provides structural support and attachment to external objects, the first portion creates a recess to receive and position the flat cable, and the second portion forms an engagement structure that secures the cable. This universal design achieves versatile cable connection functionality while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through integration into a single molded component.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges multiple functions (structural support, cable positioning, and cable securing) into a single integrated retainer body. The base, first portion, and second portion are combined in one injection-molded component, eliminating the need for multiple separate parts and assembly steps, thereby improving manufacturing ease while maintaining comprehensive cable connection functionality.
3Ease of manufacture
If simple cable retainer structures are used, then manufacturing is easier, but connection security decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The cable retainer applies local quality by concentrating structural complexity only where needed: the base portion has reinforced features for secure attachment to external objects, the first portion creates a precisely shaped recess for cable positioning, and the second portion forms engagement structures that securely hold the cable. These localized quality enhancements ensure strong connection security while the overall simple integrated structure maintains manufacturing ease.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of connecting a cable with a cable retainer may include forming a hole into a flat cable, forming a first slit into the flat cable, and/or forming a second slit into the flat cable. The first slit, the second slit, and/or the hole may define an opening. A cable retainer may include a base, a first portion connected to the base and having a first length, and/or a second portion connected to the first portion having a second length that may be greater than the first length. The method may include inserting an edge of the second portion into the opening at an oblique or right angle relative to the flat cable, and/or positioning the cable retainer such that the first portion is partially disposed in the hole and a portion of the flat cable is disposed between the base and the second portion.