Outdoor Lighting Clip Structure to Prevent Cable Sag and Wire Strain
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for hanging outdoor lights, such as using tension-based clips and household solutions like zip ties, can strain wiring and reduce the lifespan of lighting systems, while also being unsightly and non-reusable.
Innovation Solution
A plastic clip with a curved design featuring a slot and annular portion, allowing for secure attachment to a primary cable with a secondary cable or loop, distributing tension and preventing slippage through convergent angles and a nub, enhancing durability and aesthetics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If tension-based clips are used to hang outdoor lights, then the hanging method is simple, but wire strain increases and lifespan decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a secondary cable as an intermediary element between the primary support cable and the lighting string. This secondary cable acts as a mediator that absorbs hanging tension through its own weight and structure, preventing direct strain on the lighting wiring. The clip secures the secondary cable to the primary cable, creating a buffer zone that protects the lighting system while maintaining ease of installation.
2Ease of manufacture
If zip ties or household solutions are used as connectors, then cost is reduced, but aesthetics deteriorate and reusability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The invention segments the hanging system into distinct functional components: a purpose-designed clip with slot and annular portion for securing the secondary cable to the primary cable, and a separate loop mechanism for attaching the lighting string. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining an integrated, aesthetically pleasing appearance that eliminates the need for visible household solutions like zip ties.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a secondary cable as an intermediary element between the primary support cable and the lighting string. This secondary cable acts as a mediator that absorbs hanging tension through its own weight and structure, preventing direct strain on the lighting wiring. The clip secures the secondary cable to the primary cable, creating a buffer zone that protects the lighting system while maintaining ease of installation.
3Device complexity
If lights are hung directly from primary cable, then device complexity is reduced, but wire strain increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a secondary cable as an intermediary element between the primary support cable and the lighting string. This secondary cable acts as a mediator that absorbs hanging tension through its own weight and structure, preventing direct strain on the lighting wiring. The clip secures the secondary cable to the primary cable, creating a buffer zone that protects the lighting system while maintaining ease of installation.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for securing a cable with decorative lights to an existing cable is disclosed. An outdoor lighting clip which comprises a curve and annular portion for securing two cables in proximity to each other. In use, the annular portion has a slot which may be secured over a first cable such that the clip hangs from the first cable. A second cable may then be hung on the curve of the clip, such that the first cable and second cable remain in proximity to each other. This allows the second cable to have lighting decorations hanging without sagging in the middle of cable and without the cable needing to be in tension between two anchor points. Many lighting decorations include a loop on their cable for hanging from hooks, and this clip is compatible with allowing the second cable to hang from the clip by the loop.