Self-Expanding Locking Ring for Wall Cable Mounting

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for installing lines, such as cables or pipes, in wall or floor openings are often complex and require additional assembly steps, like screwing and unscrewing clamping devices, which can be time-consuming and prone to errors.

Innovation Solution

The use of a locking ring that automatically expands and holds the line in an expanded position within the opening, utilizing claw webs to secure it radially against the reveal or side surfaces, allowing for quick and simple installation without the need for separate tools or additional assembly steps.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a compression seal with clamping plates and bolts is used to secure the line, then the line is securely held in place, but the assembly process becomes complex and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecuring reliabilityVSAvoidassembly complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The locking ring is divided into multiple claw-like segments (claw webs) that can independently deflect and engage with the opening edges. This segmentation allows the ring to self-expand and secure the line without requiring complex external clamping mechanisms, thus maintaining reliability while reducing assembly complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The locking ring is designed to automatically expand and lock into position when inserted into the opening, securing the line without requiring separate tools or additional assembly steps. The elastic deformation of the ring itself provides the locking action, eliminating the need for complex assembly procedures

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Reliability

If a temporary clamping device is screwed onto the sleeve to hold it during foaming, then the sleeve is securely positioned, but additional installation effort is required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositioning reliabilityVSAvoidinstallation effort
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The locking ring automatically expands and positions itself when the assembly is inserted into the opening, holding the sleeve in place during foaming without requiring any temporary clamping devices. This self-positioning capability eliminates the need for additional installation efforts such as screwing and unscrewing clamps

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Reliability

If multiple components and assembly steps are used to install the line, then secure fixation is achieved, but the installation time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefixation securityVSAvoidinstallation speed
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The locking ring integrates multiple functions into a single component: it provides mechanical locking through its claw webs, secures the line radially, and maintains positioning during installation. This merging of functions into one element achieves secure fixation while dramatically reducing installation time by eliminating multiple separate assembly steps

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This solution simplifies the installation process by ensuring the line is securely held in place during assembly, reducing the force required for insertion and preventing accidental removal, while allowing for easy assembly from a single side, even in limited accessibility scenarios.

Implementation Method 1

The locking ring (3) is inserted into the opening (41) and automatically assumes the spread position, in which it holds the line (1)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic deformation: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentEP3670986B1Assembly of a line in an opening in a wall or floor element
Publication Date: 2023.06.07 HAUFF TECHNIK GMBH & CO KG
  • EP3670986B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3670986B1 patent drawingFigure 2~3
  • EP3670986B1 patent drawingFigure 4

AI summary

The invention relates to the use of a cable for mounting (1) in an opening (41) in a wall or floor element (42), using a locking ring (3) arranged on the cable (1), which in a spread position holds the cable (1) in the opening (41) in the wall or floor element (42), wherein the locking ring (3) automatically assumes the spread position.