Frame-Mounted Wire Clip for Multi-Angle PV Cable Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wire management systems in distributed energy generation installations, such as solar panel systems, face issues with durability and cost due to the use of nylon tie devices, which break over time and require frequent replacements, and are limited in their ability to manage wires at various angles.
Innovation Solution
A wire management device comprising a clip with multiple retention features that can engage with structural members and retain wires in multiple directions, providing a secure and adaptable solution for managing wires in photovoltaic systems, made from durable materials like NORYL™ for long-term use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If nylon tie devices are used to constrain wires, then wire management is achieved, but the tie devices become brittle and break over time when exposed to outdoor environments
Solution Approach 1:
The wire management device uses a composite construction with a rigid backbone structure made from durable polymer material and flexible wire retention members made from elastomeric material. This composite approach combines the weather resistance and structural integrity of the rigid backbone with the flexibility and resilience of the elastomeric members, eliminating the brittleness problem of single-material nylon ties while maintaining wire management functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the material parameters by selecting a durable polymer for the backbone that resists environmental degradation (UV resistance, temperature extremes) while using an elastomeric material for the retention members that maintains flexibility over time. This parameter optimization ensures the device maintains its mechanical properties throughout the intended service life without becoming brittle.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a single loop tie device is used, then simple wire constraint is achieved, but wire-structure interactions at various angles cannot be properly managed
Solution Approach 1:
The wire management device is designed with a universal backbone structure that can accommodate wires at multiple angles and orientations. The rigid backbone provides multiple attachment points and geometric configurations, while the flexible elastomeric retention members can adapt to different wire directions. This multi-functional design allows a single device to handle various wire-structure interaction scenarios that would otherwise require different types of tie devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is segmented into distinct functional components: a rigid backbone structure for structural support and positioning, and separate flexible wire retention members for actual wire contact. This segmentation allows the backbone to provide geometric adaptability for different angles while the elastomeric members provide flexible accommodation of wire orientations, achieving versatility without excessive overall complexity.
3Ease of operation
If nylon tie devices are wrapped around wires and structural members, then wire movement is constrained, but the devices require manual installation and frequent replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The wire retention members are designed to self-constrain wires through their elastic properties. When the device is installed, the elastomeric members naturally flex to accommodate the wire and then exert continuous constraining force without requiring adjustment or tightening operations. This self-service mechanism eliminates the manual adjustment steps required by traditional nylon ties and reduces maintenance needs, as the elastic material does not degrade or loosen over time like nylon does.
Data Source
AI summary
A wire management device is disclosed. The device comprises a clip comprising an upper planar member and a lower planar member, each planar member having an inner and outer surface, wherein the inner surface of the upper planar member includes a post extending toward the inner surface of the lower planar member, a stem extending from the outer surface of the lower planar member, the stem including two outwardly-extending flanges, each of the first and second outwardly-extending flanges including an edge portion extending toward the outer surface of the lower planar member, and a transverse passage extending along the outer surface of the lower planar member, the transverse passage extending across the stem, wherein the stem has a recessed portion along the transverse passage.