Helical Cable Support Tie for Wear-Free Translational Installation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing cable support devices often cause wear and damage to cables due to sharp edges and improper fitting, and require complex installation processes involving rotation, which can be cumbersome and inefficient.

Innovation Solution

A support device with helical windings and a central support portion that allows for translational installation, featuring end reliefs and varying diameters to reduce wear and eliminate sharp edges, and a structure that cooperates with attachment structures for secure cable support without rotation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If existing cable support devices are used, then cable support function is provided, but cable wear and damage occurs due to sharp edges and improper fitting

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecable durabilityVSAvoidcable wear and damage
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces sharp edges with curved surfaces throughout the cable support device. The support body features rounded corners and edges, while the support arms have curved contact surfaces that gently cradle the cable. This curvature eliminates stress concentration points that would otherwise cause cable wear and damage, providing reliable cable support without harmful sharp edges.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies different surface qualities to different parts of the device. The cable contact surfaces are specifically designed with smooth, curved finishes to prevent cable damage, while other structural portions may have different surface characteristics. This localized quality optimization ensures cable durability at critical contact points without compromising overall structural integrity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Reliability

If complex installation processes involving rotation are used, then attachment is achieved, but installation becomes cumbersome and inefficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattachment securityVSAvoidinstallation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the attachment function into separate components: the support body with its attachment structure and the support arms with their respective attachment features. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies the overall installation process, enabling straightforward attachment without complex rotational maneuvers.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of requiring rotational movement for attachment, the patent inverts the approach by designing attachment structures that engage through direct linear insertion or snap-fit mechanisms. The attachment features are configured to engage in a single straightforward motion, eliminating the need for rotation and making installation simple and efficient while maintaining secure attachment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

Data Source

PatentUS11962138B2Cable support tie
Publication Date: 2024.04.16 PREFORMED LINE PRODUCTS COMPANY
  • US11962138B2 patent drawing
  • US11962138B2 patent drawing
  • US11962138B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A support device for supporting a cable includes a central support portion having a first side and a second side. The support device also includes a first leg portion extending between a first end and a second end, the first leg portion having a first helical winding. The support device also includes a second leg portion extending between a third end and a fourth end, the second leg portion having a second helical winding. The support device further includes a hanger portion attached to the central support portion. The hanger portion includes structure that cooperates with an associated attachment structure. The first leg portion is attached to the central support portion and the second leg portion is attached to the central support portion. The first helical winding and the second helical winding are configured to receive the cable.