Modular Cable Engine With Interchangeable Traction Units
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cable engine systems are inflexible and require multiple types for different configurations, such as linear and curved cable laying, making them bulky and difficult to customize for specific needs.
Innovation Solution
A modular cable engine system comprising interchangeable modules with adjustable traction wheels and connection means, allowing for configuration in linear or curved setups, and enabling on-site customization to accommodate various cable sizes and types.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple different sizes of cable engines are used for different steps (linear conveying, curved conveying, different pulling forces), then the specific needs for different cable laying scenarios can be met, but the system becomes bulky and complex with multiple different types of equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The cable engine is divided into multiple identical modular units, each capable of independent operation. These modules can be assembled in different configurations (linear, curved, tandem, juxtaposed) to meet different cable laying scenarios, replacing the need for multiple different types of cable engines with a single standardized module type.
Solution Approach 2:
The identical cable engine modules are designed to be multi-functional through their connection means that enable various assembly configurations. The same module can serve different purposes depending on how it is assembled with other modules, providing universal applicability across different cable laying scenarios including linear conveying, curved conveying, and different pulling force requirements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing cable engines are arranged in a fixed configuration for linear conveying, then the structure is simple, but the system cannot accommodate curved cable laying or other specific configuration needs
Solution Approach 1:
The fixed configuration is replaced by segmented modular units with standardized connection interfaces. Each module maintains simple manufacturing, but the system as a whole achieves configuration flexibility through the ability to assemble modules in different arrangements (linear, curved, angled) depending on the specific cable laying requirements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If several different sizes of cable engines are used on a cable-laying ship (first type for linear conveying, second type for curved conveying), then different conveying paths can be achieved, but the equipment inventory becomes bulky and difficult to manage
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of maintaining separate inventories of different cable engine types for different conveying paths, the invention uses identical universal modules that can be configured for linear, curved, or other conveying paths through their connection means. This reduces the equipment inventory to a single type of module while maintaining the ability to achieve different conveying paths.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a modular cable engine system is designed to be flexible and customizable for specific needs, then on-site customization becomes possible, but the connection and assembly process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into identical modules with standardized connection interfaces, enabling on-site customization through simple assembly operations. The segmentation allows flexible configuration while the standardization of connection means keeps the assembly process straightforward and manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular design allows parameter changes (such as the number of modules, their arrangement configuration, and connection angles) to be adjusted on-site to match specific cable laying needs, while the standardized module design and connection interfaces ensure that these parameter changes can be made without excessive assembly complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A cable engine module for conveying cables or pipes includes a frame, traction wheels, and drive means for driving the traction wheels. The frame has a longitudinal direction between a first and second longitudinal end, a traverse direction between a first side, a second side, and a front side. The frame supports the traction wheels on the front side of the frame, and the traction wheels are spaced apart in the longitudinal direction of the frame and convey a cable or pipe in the transverse direction. The frame is provided with first connection means on the first side of the frame and second connection means on the second side of the frame. The first connection means are attached to a second connection means of an identical cable engine module, and the second connection means are attached to a first connection means of an identical cable engine module.