Label Clip with Asymmetric Projections for Cable Identification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for identifying and distinguishing individual wires and cables in a bundle, such as adhesive tags and snap-on markers, are not reusable, customizable, or durable, leading to detachment and readability issues over time.
Innovation Solution
A clip assembly with a customizable label that can be removably attached to a cable, featuring an annular design with projections to secure the clip in place and a slit for easy installation, allowing for secure attachment and customization of labels on cables.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If adhesive tags are used to label cables, then labels can be applied to cables, but the tags become unintentionally detached or unreadable due to wear and tear
Solution Approach 1:
The label member includes a writable surface that can be customized with permanent markings. The clip structure provides a rigid framework that protects the label from wear and tear, while the projections ensure permanent attachment to the cable boot, preventing detachment and maintaining readability over time.
Solution Approach 2:
The assembly combines a rigid clip structure made of durable material with a label member that has a writable surface. This composite structure integrates the protective function of the clip with the identification function of the label, creating a system that is both durable and customizable.
2Ease of operation
If snap-on markers are used to label cables, then markers can be attached to cables, but they are small and not customizable, lacking space for user-written information
Solution Approach 1:
The label member extends lengthwise along the cable boot, providing a large writable surface area in the longitudinal dimension. This dimensional expansion allows sufficient space for users to write identification information, overcoming the space limitation of small snap-on markers.
Solution Approach 2:
The clip assembly serves multiple functions: it provides a secure attachment mechanism through projections, offers a large customizable writable surface on the label member, and ensures permanent fixation on the cable boot. This multi-functional design replaces the need for separate marking tools.
3Reliability
If a clip assembly with projections is used to secure labels to cables, then the clip can be securely attached to the cable, but the projections may obstruct sliding the clip in the opposite direction
Solution Approach 1:
The projections are designed with asymmetric geometry, having a leading face that is inclined or rounded to allow easy sliding onto the cable boot in the installation direction, and a trailing face that is perpendicular or angled to prevent removal in the opposite direction. This asymmetric design provides both easy installation and secure retention.
Solution Approach 2:
The clip includes multiple projections distributed around its circumference, dividing the attachment function into multiple discrete engagement points. This segmentation allows the clip to be installed by sliding along the cable boot while the projections progressively engage with the boot surface, facilitating easy installation followed by secure retention.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure is directed to a label clip assembly comprising an annular clip having an inner surface and an outer surface radially positioned around a primary axis, and having a height extending in the direction of the primary axis, a label member attached to the outer surface of the clip, and a plurality of projections extending radially from the inner surface of the clip towards the primary axis. The projections may be configured to permit sliding of the clip onto a cable in a first direction and to avoid the clip sliding off the cable in an opposite direction when the clip is engaged with the cable by the projections.