Modular Cable Connector Cover with Recess and Visual Indicator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional cable protectors require additional components for connection and lack a visual indicator, increasing cost, weight, and complexity while failing to minimize tripping hazards and obstruction effectively.
Innovation Solution
A modular cable connector cover with a recess for storing excess cables and connectors, equipped with connectors for engaging adjacent protectors and a visually indicative upper portion, made from lightweight plastic for stackability and ease of use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional cable protectors include additional components for connection and visual indication, then functionality is improved, but cost, weight, and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into a single integrated cover component: cable storage (recess), visual indication (upper portion extending upward), and connector engagement (connectors on the cover). This merging eliminates the need for separate base components with end connectors, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining all required functionalities.
Solution Approach 2:
The cable connector cover is designed as a multi-functional component that simultaneously provides: (1) storage for excess cables and connectors in its recess, (2) visual indication to passersby through its upward-extending upper portion, and (3) connection capability through integrated connectors. This universal design allows one component to fulfill multiple roles that traditionally required separate elements.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If cable protectors are designed with low profile to minimize tripping hazards, then safety is improved, but ability to provide visual indication and store components is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The cable protector system is segmented into two distinct components: a low-profile base unit that minimizes tripping hazards, and a separate cover component that provides visual indication and storage. The base maintains minimal height for safety, while the cover (which can be removed or adjusted) provides the necessary visual presence and component storage without permanently increasing the profile of the protective device.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover is designed with dynamic characteristics - it can be positioned, removed, or adjusted as needed. The hinged lid allows the cover to open and close, providing access to stored cables and connectors while maintaining visual indication when closed. This dynamic design allows the system to adapt between providing visual presence and providing access to components.
3Reliability
If cable protectors use traditional base with end connectors, then connection capability is ensured, but cost, weight, and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the end connectors from the base component and relocates them to the cover component. This extraction allows the base to be a simpler, lighter structure without integrated connectors, while the cover (which is positioned at the end of the cable run) carries the connection functionality. This redistribution of functions reduces the weight and complexity of the base while maintaining reliable connections.
Data Source
AI summary
A cable connector cover for use with modular cable protectors includes a bottom recess for housing cables and cable connectors. The cable protector cover also has a number of openings to provide access into the bottom recess. These openings are adjacent to the connectors and are aligned with the channels of the cable protectors to allow cables to run from the cable protectors into the recess. The upper portion of the cable connector cover can extend upward to a sufficient height to provide a visual indicator to passersby.