Multiple Chamber Innerduct Structure to Minimize Seam Bulk in Conduits
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flexible innerduct structures for conduits have bulky seams that reduce flexibility and occupy valuable space, especially in small conduits, limiting the number of cables that can be positioned and inserted efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A flexible innerduct structure comprising two or more longitudinal tubes with chambers, where the tubes are attached only at a central middle region, minimizing seam area and allowing the structure to spread and fill conduits effectively, with seams formed by methods like stitching or ultrasonic welding, and made from woven or knit textiles with specific yarn configurations for enhanced strength and flexibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple chambers are formed using traditional seam construction, then cable segregation and conduit filling are improved, but seam bulk increases reducing flexibility and usable space
Solution Approach 1:
The innerduct is divided into multiple longitudinal tubes (first tube, second tube, etc.), each forming separate chambers. These tubes are attached only at margin regions (first margin region and second margin region) rather than along the entire length, creating segmented chambers that segregate cables while minimizing seam bulk in the middle region where maximum space is needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment configuration varies by location: tubes are fully attached at margin regions to provide structural stability and cable entry/exit points, but unattached in the middle region to maximize flexibility and usable space. This local differentiation of attachment quality allows the innerduct to be rigid where needed and flexible where needed.
2Stability of the object's composition
If seams are extended along the full length of innerduct tubes, then structural stability is improved, but flexibility and ease of installation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The continuous seam is segmented into discrete attachment zones (margin regions) separated by unattached zones (middle region). This segmentation provides structural stability at the ends where tubes need to maintain shape for cable entry/exit, while allowing flexibility in the middle region for easy installation and conduit navigation.
Solution Approach 2:
The innerduct transitions from a static, fully-attached structure to a dynamic structure with variable attachment. The unattached middle region allows the tubes to flex, bend, and adapt to conduit geometry during installation, while the attached margin regions maintain structural integrity when deployed.
3Quantity of substance
If tube diameter is increased to accommodate more cables, then cable capacity is improved, but space utilization in small conduits worsens
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a single large-diameter tube, the innerduct uses multiple smaller-diameter tubes (first tube, second tube, etc.) that are attached at margin regions. This segmentation allows the tubes to spread apart and fill the conduit cross-section more efficiently, increasing cable capacity without requiring an oversized single tube that would waste space in small conduits.
Solution Approach 2:
The multiple tubes utilize the radial dimension of the conduit by spreading outward from the center to fill the available cross-sectional area. This dimensional arrangement maximizes space utilization compared to a single central tube, allowing more cables to be accommodated in the same conduit size.
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 design maximizes usable space within conduits by minimizing seam bulk, enhancing flexibility, and allowing for easier installation and higher cable capacity without bunching, while enabling easy manufacturing of various sizes and configurations.
Implementation Method 1
seams formed by methods like stitching or ultrasonic welding
Data Source
AI summary
A flexible innerduct structure having a first edge, a second edge, a first margin region, a second margin region, and a middle region. The middle region is located between the first and second margin regions. The innerduct structure comprises at least two flexible longitudinal tubes, each longitudinal tube forming two chambers. Each chamber is designed for enveloping at least one cable, where at least one of the longitudinal tubes extends from the first margin region to the second margin region, and wherein the tubes are attached together at an attachment in the middle region.