Interlocking Cable Holder Layout for Signal-Safe Cable Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cable management solutions, such as zip ties and Velcro strips, fail to prevent signal interference, are not reusable, and do not allow easy addition or substitution of cables, while also posing tripping hazards and being unsightly.
Innovation Solution
A unitary molded cable holder with interlocking ends and recesses that stagger cables to prevent signal interference, featuring retention structures and windows for zip ties, allowing for easy visualization and secure cable management, and can be mounted to a surface for organization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If cables are bundled together with zip ties to prevent tangling and tripping hazards, then cable organization and safety are improved, but cable removal and substitution become difficult requiring destruction of the tie
Solution Approach 1:
The cable management system is divided into modular cable holders that can be individually removed from the interlocking chain. Each holder contains one or more cables, allowing selective removal and substitution of cables without affecting other cables in the system. The male/female end connections enable segmentation while maintaining overall system integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
Different parts of the cable holder serve different functions: the body holds cables, the male/female ends enable interconnection, and the recesses provide cable retention. This localized functionality allows the holder to be removed and replaced as a unit while maintaining cable security during use.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If cables are bundled together to prevent tripping hazards, then safety is improved, but signal interference and signal corruption occur
Solution Approach 1:
The recesses in the cable holder position cables in different spatial dimensions (elevations) rather than bundling them together in the same plane. This vertical staggering separates cables in the third dimension, preventing signal interference while maintaining organized cable management that eliminates tripping hazards.
3Stability of the object's composition
If Velcro strips are used to bundle cables, then cable organization is improved, but they cannot be affixed to a surface requiring additional clips or hooks
Solution Approach 1:
The cable holder integrates multiple functions into a single component: it organizes cables through recesses, provides surface mounting capability through fastener bores, and enables modular expansion through interlocking ends. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate Velcro strips, clips, and hooks that would otherwise be required.
4Stability of the object's composition
If Velcro strips are used to hold cables, then cable organization is improved, but they separate easily if cables are pulled or twisted
Solution Approach 1:
The recesses are designed with asymmetric retention structures including lips and ledges that create a one-way locking mechanism. Cables can be easily inserted into the recesses but are securely retained when pulled or twisted, preventing accidental separation while maintaining easy access for intentional cable changes.
5Quantity of substance
If traditional cable bundling methods are used, then cables are contained, but they lack organization and visualization
Solution Approach 1:
The recesses stagger cables at different elevations, creating a vertically organized arrangement that improves visualization. Cables are separated in the vertical dimension rather than hidden within a horizontal bundle, allowing easy identification and access while maintaining contained organization.
Data Source
AI summary
A unitary molded audio/video cable holder is disclosed that is easily linked to similar cable holders using ends that cooperate in a male/female relationship. Each cable holder comprises rows of recesses that each hold a cable and include retention structures to releasably hold the cables in their respective recess. The holders further may include windows adjacent the recesses to receive a zip tie to keep the cables in the holder where the cables care moved, twisted, or otherwise subjected to forces that would otherwise pull the cables from the holder. The capability of the holders of the present invention to interlock and expand allows the invention to hold an unlimited number of cables easily and safely. Fastener bores facilitate the holders being mounted to a wall or other flat surface.