Modular Cable Duct Assembly for Flexible Cable Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cable ducts are expensive and inflexible, requiring multiple types to accommodate different cable designs, leading to inefficient and costly production.
Innovation Solution
A modular, building block-like cable duct system with identical cable housings that can be detachably connected using snap-fit and positive-locking mechanisms, allowing geometrically structured adaptation to cable designs, and featuring spring forces for transverse connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional cable ducts are used to accommodate different cable designs, then each cable type requires a specific duct design, but this leads to high production costs and complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The cable duct is designed as a universal module that can accommodate different cable types and configurations through adjustable elements. The duct includes adjustable support elements and routing features that can be adapted to various cable diameters, shapes, and routing requirements, eliminating the need for multiple specialized duct designs
Solution Approach 2:
The cable duct system is divided into modular segments that can be independently configured and assembled. Each module contains standardized connection interfaces and adjustable internal features, allowing flexible combination to meet different cable accommodation requirements while maintaining production efficiency
2Reliability
If traditional cable ducts are manufactured for each specific cable design, then cable protection is ensured, but production becomes expensive and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
A single universal duct design provides adequate protection for all cable types through standardized wall thicknesses, material selections, and protective features. The universal design maintains reliable cable protection while enabling economies of scale in manufacturing, reducing both cost and production time
Solution Approach 2:
The duct design incorporates adjustable parameters such as support element positions, routing channel configurations, and attachment point locations that can be modified to suit different cable requirements. These parameter adjustments are achieved through simple mechanical modifications rather than complete redesigns, maintaining protection reliability while simplifying manufacturing
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple types of prefabricated cable ducts are provided for different cable types, then specific routing requirements are met, but inventory complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The universal cable duct design incorporates adjustable routing channels and positioning features that can accommodate various cable routing configurations within a single duct type. This eliminates the need to stock multiple specialized duct variants while maintaining the ability to meet specific routing requirements through field-adjustable features
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
Enables cost-effective and flexible adaptation to various cable configurations, simplifying installation and handling, while maintaining cable stability and protection.
Implementation Method 1
at least one spring element can be arranged on an outer side of the cable housing, which exerts a spring force transversely to the longitudinal direction of the channel on the other cable housing
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a cable duct (10) for receiving at least one cable (12). The cable duct (10) comprises a combination of several duct-like cable housings (14). The cable housing (14) has at least one connection terminal which is detachably connected to a corresponding counterpart terminal of another cable housing (14) for connecting two cable housings (14) in series.