Modular Cable Tray for People Mover Curves
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cable tray systems in people mover systems, such as Sky Trains, require cutting and welding to accommodate curves and elevational changes in roadways, limiting flexibility and adaptability.
Innovation Solution
A cable tray apparatus comprising identical, rectangular cable trays that are selectively laterally and vertically adjustable through a connector system, allowing for end-to-end connection and flexible positioning to match roadway curves and elevations, with removable covers and partitions that serve as heat sinks and illumination sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If cable trays are cut and welded together to accommodate curves and elevational changes, then the cable trays can be installed on roadways with varying geometry, but the installation process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The cable tray system is divided into multiple identical, modular tray sections that can be connected end-to-end. Each section remains intact without cutting, and the modular design allows flexible arrangement to accommodate curves and elevational changes through simple connection adjustments rather than complex welding operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector system incorporates adjustable features that allow the cable trays to be selectively positioned at different angles and heights. This dynamic adjustment capability enables the rigid tray sections to adapt to varying roadway geometries while maintaining structural integrity and simplifying installation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If cable trays are cut and welded together to accommodate curves and elevational changes, then the cable trays can fit the roadway profile, but installation time and labor requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the cable tray into identical modular sections with standardized connectors, the system eliminates time-consuming cutting and welding operations. Each module can be quickly assembled and repositioned to match the roadway profile, significantly accelerating installation while maintaining adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector mechanism allows for selective changes in positional parameters (horizontal angle, vertical height) of each tray section. This parameter adjustability enables rapid adaptation to different roadway profiles without requiring custom fabrication, thereby improving installation productivity.
3Ease of manufacture
If identical cable trays are used in an end-to-end relationship, then manufacturing and inventory are simplified, but flexibility to accommodate roadway variations is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The connector system provides dynamic adjustment capabilities that allow identical tray sections to be configured in various orientations and positions. This enables the standardized modules to adapt to different roadway geometries through simple repositioning rather than requiring custom-designed trays for each application.
Solution Approach 2:
The universal connector design allows the same tray module to serve multiple functions and positions along the roadway. A single tray design can be used throughout the entire system, and the connector enables this universal module to accommodate curves, slopes, and elevation changes, thereby maintaining both manufacturing simplicity and adaptability.
Data Source
AI summary
A cable tray apparatus is provided a people mover system such as a Sky Train or the like. The cable tray apparatus is made up of a plurality of identical cable trays which are secured together in an end-to-end relationship. The cable trays are selectively laterally horizontally adjustable with respect to one another and are selectively vertically adjustable with respect to one another to correspond to curves in the roadway of the system and to correspond to elevational changes in the roadway of the system.