Folding Rule Cable Laying Tool with Integrated Wedge Clamps
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tools for laying cables in suspended ceilings are cumbersome and require assembly on-site, necessitating frequent ladder use and potential loss of components, while lacking the necessary stability and versatility for various cable diameters.
Innovation Solution
An extendable folding rule with double wedge-shaped openings on its end links for secure cable clamping, allowing for quick deployment and use without separate parts, enabling both pulling and pushing of cables with different diameters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multi-part pluggable polyester rods are used for laying cables in suspended ceilings, then the tool can be equipped with various attachments for fastening cables, but the tool has to be plugged or screwed together for use and requires frequent assembly and disassembly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the cable fastening function directly into the folding rule structure by providing openings in the end links that can clamp cables, eliminating the need for separate pluggable attachments. This merging of functions reduces assembly complexity while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The folding rule is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as a measuring tool, a cable laying tool, and a cable fastening tool. The openings in the end links provide universal cable clamping capability for different cable types and diameters, making the tool versatile without requiring additional components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multi-part pluggable polyester rods are used for laying cables, then various attachments can be equipped, but the installer has to get off the ladder to assemble and disassemble the tool
Solution Approach 1:
By combining the cable fastening function into the folding rule structure itself through integrated openings, the tool eliminates the need for separate assembly steps. The installer can deploy the tool immediately upon unfolding it, maintaining versatility while dramatically improving operational convenience.
3Adaptability or versatility
If plastic pulling strings with riveted eyelets are used, then the tool has necessary flexibility to push through angled pipes, but flexibility proves to be a disadvantage when laying cables in suspended ceilings requiring dimensional stability
Solution Approach 1:
The folding rule provides dynamic adaptability: when folded, it is compact and flexible for storage and transport; when unfolded, it becomes a rigid, dimensionally stable structure for cable laying. This dynamic transformation allows the tool to achieve both flexibility and stability as needed.
4Adaptability or versatility
If polyester rods are used for cable laying, then the tool can fasten cables, but the tool is not carried by fitters and requires storage on the floor
Solution Approach 1:
The folding rule is a universal tool that electricians already carry for measuring tasks. By integrating cable fastening capability into this existing portable tool through openings in the end links, it becomes a multi-functional device that is both portable and capable of cable laying operations.
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
Enables efficient and versatile cable laying in suspended ceilings without the need to dismount the ladder, reducing assembly time and minimizing the risk of lost components, while accommodating various cable sizes and orientations.
Implementation Method 1
The opening has a wedge shape, with the tip of the wedge expediently lying essentially in the longitudinal center line of the rod. With a wedge shape, electric cables with different diameters can be clamped.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3a~3c
AI summary
The invention relates to a laying tool for pulling electrical cables or insulated electrical conductors, particularly into hard-to-reach cavities, such as cavities in suspended ceiling constructions, comprising an extendable rod and at least one fastening element (13) that can be attached to the rod or is integral with it. The extendable rod is a folding rule consisting of a plurality of segments, with the fastening element (13) located at one end segment (11).