Resilient Flexible Member for Cavity Line Capture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current solutions for retrieving cabling from cavities in building construction are time-consuming and inefficient, with existing devices facing issues in deployment and positioning.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a conduit with lateral guide members and a resiliently flexible member that captures and retrieves lines through a cavity, featuring a mounting member for secure attachment and a storage kit for the flexible member when not in use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If existing devices are used to retrieve cabling from cavities, then cabling can be retrieved, but the process is time-consuming and difficult due to deployment and positioning problems
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into separate components: a mounting member that attaches to the structure, a conduit that connects to the cavity, and a resiliently flexible member that is passed through the conduit. This segmentation allows each component to be prepared independently and simplifies the overall deployment process.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting member is pre-attached to the structure before the conduit is connected, and the conduit is prepared in advance. This preliminary preparation eliminates complex on-site assembly and positioning challenges during the actual cabling retrieval operation.
2Measurement precision
If existing devices are used to retrieve cabling from cavities, then cabling can be retrieved, but the positioning accuracy is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The resiliently flexible member acts as an intermediary between the operator and the capture mechanism. It is passed through the conduit and can be precisely positioned within the cavity, allowing accurate placement of the capture loop at the desired location for retrieving the line.
Solution Approach 2:
The resiliently flexible member can change its physical state from a compressed configuration during insertion to an expanded configuration when forming the capture loop. This parameter change allows the same component to serve multiple functions at different stages of the operation.
3Reliability
If a capture mechanism is deployed in a cavity, then line capture is possible, but deployment challenges arise
Solution Approach 1:
The resiliently flexible member is self-deploying through the conduit using its own flexibility and resiliency. Once passed through the conduit, it automatically forms the capture loop configuration, eliminating the need for complex mechanical deployment mechanisms or multiple operators.
Solution Approach 2:
The resiliently flexible member functions as a flexible element that can be inserted through the rigid conduit and then deform into the desired capture shape. This flexibility allows simple insertion but creates reliable capture when the loop is formed around the line.
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 device facilitates efficient and effective retrieval of cabling by providing a guided pathway and secure capture mechanism, reducing deployment challenges and enhancing usability.
Implementation Method 1
a resiliently flexible member capable of being passed through the first conduit and defining a stem portion, adapted to be guided by said first and second lateral guide members, and a loop portion in the cavity to capture said line
Data Source
AI summary
A device for capturing a line passed into a cavity on a first side of a structure and retrieving the line through to a second side of the structure, the device comprising: (a) a first conduit adapted to define a pathway between the first and second sides of the structure and including: first and second lateral guide members that are opposed and each define a first surface that extends into and along the inside of the first conduit; (b) a mounting member for the first conduit; and (c) a resiliently flexible member capable of being passed through the first conduit and defining a stem portion and a loop portion in the cavity to capture said line.