Hinged Cable Trap for Electrical Box Strain Relief

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing solutions for securing cables to electrical boxes lack effective strain relief and flexibility in accommodating various cable sizes, leading to potential cable movement and safety concerns.

Innovation Solution

A cable trap apparatus with a hingedly coupled cover that can switch between open and closed configurations, featuring inwardly biased arms and teeth to securely hold cables, and a design that accommodates different cable sizes without modifying its orientation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If existing cable securing solutions are used, then cable attachment is achieved, but strain relief is insufficient and cable movement occurs

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecable attachment securityVSAvoidcable movement and strain

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The trap apparatus incorporates a hinged cover that can dynamically transition between open and closed configurations, allowing the structure to adapt to cable insertion and then lock into a secure closed position, providing both ease of installation and reliable strain relief

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The apparatus changes its structural configuration parameter from open to closed state, transforming from an accessible installation state to a secure operational state, thereby achieving both ease of operation and reliable cable attachment

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If a fixed cable securing structure is used, then cable positioning is achieved, but flexibility to accommodate various cable sizes is lost

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccommodation of cable sizesVSAvoidstructural configuration

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The hinged cover enables the trap to dynamically adjust its configuration, opening to accommodate cables of various sizes during installation, then closing to provide secure retention, thus achieving versatility without requiring multiple fixed structures

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The single trap apparatus with hinged cover serves multiple functions: it accommodates different cable sizes during installation and provides secure strain relief during operation, eliminating the need for multiple specialized components

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If permanent structural alterations are made for cable securing, then secure attachment is achieved, but ease of configuration changes is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecable attachment securityVSAvoidconfiguration changes

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The hinged cover provides a reversible, non-permanent securing mechanism that can be easily opened and closed multiple times, allowing configuration changes without permanent alterations while maintaining secure attachment when closed

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The trap apparatus is self-contained with an integrated hinged cover that provides both installation accessibility and operational security without requiring external tools or permanent modifications, enabling easy reconfiguration when needed

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS7922020B2Apparatus for securing a line such as a cable

Publication Date: 2011.04.12 SIGNIFY HOLDING BV

AI summary

An apparatus for securing a line such as, for example, a cable or the like, thereto is described. In an exemplary embodiment, the apparatus is coupled to an electrical box into which the cable extends.