Machine Tool Cover Cable Receptacle for Protected Electrical Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing covering devices for machine tools face challenges in safely and cost-effectively connecting electrical components mounted on the cover to a control device or power source, often requiring trailing cables that are space-intensive and prone to mechanical stress.
Innovation Solution
The solution involves routing a connecting cable directly within the cover elements, using a receptacle that extends parallel to the direction of movement, allowing for a more space-saving and cost-effective connection of electrical components like sensors and light sources to a control device or power source, with guide elements that reduce friction and wear.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If trailing cables are used to connect electrical components on the cover to a control device, then the connection is simple to implement, but the cables are prone to mechanical stress and occupy excessive space
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting cable is extracted from the traditional trailing configuration and repositioned to run inside the cover element itself. The cable is guided through a receptacle formed in the cover element, separating the cable routing function from the cover structure and eliminating the need for external cable trays or trailing cables.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting cable is nested within the cover element by routing it through a receptacle that is formed as part of the cover element's structure. This nesting approach allows the cable to be protected and guided within the existing cover structure, reducing space requirements and eliminating mechanical stress from external cable routing.
2Ease of manufacture
If trailing cables are used for electrical connections, then installation is straightforward, but the cables occupy excessive space and are susceptible to damage
Solution Approach 1:
The cable routing function is extracted from external cable trays or trailing configurations and integrated directly into the cover element through an internally formed receptacle, eliminating the need for separate cable management structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The cable guidance function is merged with the cover element structure by forming the receptacle as an integral part of the cover element. This combining of functions reduces the total space required while maintaining ease of installation.
3Ease of manufacture
If traditional cable routing methods are used, then connections can be made easily, but the cables are prone to mechanical stress and wear
Solution Approach 1:
The cable is extracted from vulnerable external routing and repositioned to run through a protected receptacle formed in the cover element, removing it from areas subject to mechanical stress and wear.
Solution Approach 2:
The receptacle structure provides beforehand protection for the connecting cable, shielding it from mechanical stress and wear before any damage can occur. The cable is pre-positioned within the protected pathway of the cover element.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
The application relates to a cover device for a machine, in particular for a machine tool, with a cover formed by at least one cover element. The cover device includes a drive motor designed and configured to move the cover from a closed position to an open position. At least one electrical component is also provided, which is arranged on the cover. To connect the electrical component directly or indirectly to a control device or a power source, a connecting cable is provided, which runs in a receptacle extending parallel to the guide rail in at least one guide element or in the at least one cover element.