Helical Cable Storage with Dynamic Pulley Guidance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current electric cable storage devices for motor vehicle charging systems are inefficient in managing long cables, prone to tangling, and occupy excessive space, with existing solutions either manual or powered, lacking in simplicity and reliability.
Innovation Solution
A helical electric cable storage system utilizing a spring effect and pulley mechanism, where the cable is guided by rotatably mobile pulleys with a spring and weight-assisted retrieval, allowing for automatic storage without external power, capable of handling cables up to 9 meters in length with minimal bulk and ease of use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a cable reel or box is used to store the cable, then the cable can be stored, but the device occupies excessive space and is prone to tangling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic pulley system where the first pulley is rotatably mounted on a horizontal shaft, allowing it to rotate and adjust its position automatically during cable deployment and retraction. This dynamic mechanism enables the cable to be guided smoothly without tangling while maintaining a compact storage profile, resolving the contradiction between storage reliability and device volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces pulleys as intermediary elements between the cable and the storage housing. The first pulley guides the cable during deployment, while the second pulley (in some embodiments) further assists in cable management. These intermediaries enable reliable cable storage in a compact space by mediating the cable's movement path and preventing tangling.
2Ease of operation
If a manual winding box is used, then the cable can be stored, but the operation is complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service mechanism where the cable's own weight and spring effect are utilized to automatically retract the cable into the housing after deployment. The system requires no manual winding or external power source - the cable deploys when pulled and automatically returns when released, making operation extremely simple and eliminating time loss associated with manual storage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic action through the spring-loaded mechanism that alternates between extended and retracted states. The spring stores energy during cable deployment and automatically releases it to retract the cable, creating a rhythmic deploy-retract cycle that simplifies operation and reduces storage time.
3Volume of stationary object
If a helical cable is used to decrease space, then the cable occupies less space, but it requires a specific storage mechanism to prevent tangling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a dynamically adjustable pulley system that adapts to the helical cable's geometry. The rotatable first pulley on a horizontal shaft automatically adjusts its orientation during cable deployment and retraction, working in conjunction with the helical cable's spring effect to prevent tangling while maintaining compact storage volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs counterbalancing forces where the cable's spring effect (when compressed) and gravitational weight (when hanging) work together to control cable movement. This counterweight principle, combined with the pulley guidance, manages the helical cable's tendency to tangle while preserving space efficiency.
4Ease of operation
If an automatic storage system is used, then cable retrieval is simple, but it requires external power input
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a self-powered automatic storage system that uses the cable's own physical properties (spring effect and weight) as the energy source. No external power input is required - the system automatically deploys and retracts the cable using passive mechanical energy storage and gravitational forces, achieving both ease of operation and zero power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic action through the spring-loaded mechanism that naturally oscillates between extended and retracted positions. This passive periodic motion, driven by the spring's stored energy and gravity, provides automatic cable management without requiring external power input.
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 system effectively manages cable length and weight, reducing tangling and storage bulk, enhancing user convenience and reliability by combining the spring effect of the helical cable with the weight of the stored portion for effortless deployment and retraction, minimizing the risk of breakage and improving charging efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a helical electric cable having a spring effect
Implementation Method 2
pulled down by the weight of the cable portion present under the first pulley
Data Source
AI summary
The invention concerns an electrical connection system, comprising a helical electrical cable (6) having a spring effect and a device (7) for storing the cable, comprising at least one first pulley (74, 73) for guiding the cable.