Micro-Duct Grip Assembly for Tool-Free Strain Relief
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Solution Overview
Problem
Fiber-optic cables and micro-ducts in outdoor cabinets are prone to damage due to violent events like motor vehicle accidents, causing micro-ducts to be pulled out with strong tensile forces, which can damage cables and connections, and existing solutions do not provide adequate strain relief and easy installation.
Innovation Solution
A micro-duct grip system comprising a base member with tapered cavities and a locking member with a tapered profile, which securely holds micro-ducts in place using a sliding mechanism without the need for tools, providing strain relief and easy access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a micro-duct grip system is designed to securely hold micro-ducts against strong axial forces, then the strain relief and security against damage is improved, but the device complexity and installation difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The micro-duct grip system is divided into two separate components: a base member with tapered cavities and a locking member with a tapered profile. These segments can be independently manufactured and assembled, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining the security function against axial forces
Solution Approach 2:
The locking member is designed to nest within the base member structure. The locking member fits into the base member's cavity system, creating a compact integrated assembly that provides strong strain relief without requiring excessive space or complex external structures
2Ease of operation
If a micro-duct grip system uses a sliding mechanism for installation, then the ease of operation and installation speed is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The tapered cavities and tapered profile utilize gradual geometric transitions rather than abrupt changes. This allows the sliding mechanism to self-align during installation, reducing the stringency of manufacturing precision requirements while maintaining ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The tapered geometry of the cavities and locking member profile enables self-alignment during the sliding installation process. The components guide themselves into proper positioning through the tapered interfaces, eliminating the need for complex alignment procedures or highly precise pre-positioning
3Ease of operation
If the micro-duct grip system allows quick removal for access, then the ease of operation is improved, but the security against tensile forces during normal operation may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The grip system transitions between two dynamic states: a locked state where the locking member engages the tapered cavities to provide strong holding strength against tensile forces, and an unlocked state where the locking member can be easily disengaged for quick access. The tapered geometry enables smooth transitions between these states
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
The micro-duct grip system effectively secures micro-ducts against strong axial forces, preventing damage to cables and connections, while allowing for quick and simple installation and removal, reducing deployment costs and complexity.
Implementation Method 1
The back wall has a tapered profile for inserting down into the first pair of tapered cavities in the base member. A front wall extends out in front of the back wall and includes arms being configured to slide down into the second pair of cavities in the base member.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 2C
AI summary
A fiber-optic tube holder includes a base unit having an opening for receiving a tube. A back end of the opening includes a first channel for retaining a first side of the tube. Sides of the opening including a first pair of tapered cavities and a front end of the opening includes a second pair of cavities separated by a slot. A locking unit includes a back wall having a second channel for retaining a second side of the tube and having a tapered profile for inserting down into the first pair of tapered cavities in the base member. A front wall of the locking unit extends out in front of the back wall and includes arms that slide down into the second pair of cavities in the base unit. The base unit includes a back mounting member with upper and lower pairs of side walls forming slots configured to slidingly insert into a rack of a mounting assembly.