Parallel Planar Cable Management with Support Bars
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Solution Overview
Problem
The weight of numerous cables connected to electronic devices can cause strain on the cables, connectors, and the device itself, leading to damage over time.
Innovation Solution
A cable management apparatus comprising two parallel planar members with apertures and attach points that attach to an electronic device, along with a support bar to distribute the weight of the cables, reducing the strain on connectors and the device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple cables are connected to the electronic device, then the device can perform more functions and communicate with more devices, but the weight and strain on the cables and connectors increases, leading to potential damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a cable management apparatus as an intermediary component between the cables and the electronic device. This apparatus includes a planar member with attach points that connect to the device, and support bars that provide structural reinforcement. The intermediary structure distributes the weight and strain from multiple cables across the planar member and support bars, preventing concentrated stress on individual connectors and the device chassis, thereby maintaining connector durability while supporting high cable connectivity
2Strength
If the cable management apparatus uses more support bars and planar members, then the structural strength and cable weight distribution improve, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cable management apparatus is segmented into distinct functional components: a planar member with multiple attach points for connecting to the electronic device, and separate support bars that can be positioned at strategic locations. This segmentation allows the structure to provide strength where needed while keeping each component relatively simple. The planar member handles the cable attachment function, while the support bars provide structural reinforcement, allowing for modular manufacturing and assembly that reduces overall complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus applies local quality by concentrating structural reinforcement (support bars) only in areas where cable weight and strain are most significant, rather than uniformly strengthening the entire structure. The planar member provides localized attachment points at specific locations on the device chassis, ensuring strength is provided precisely where cables connect, while minimizing unnecessary material and complexity in other areas
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for managing cables and configured to attach to a side of an electronic device is disclosed. The apparatus has a first planar member which has a plurality of attach points that match a plurality of attach points on an electronic device. The first planar member defines an aperture at least as large as a cable to be attached to the electronic device. The apparatus also has a second planar member parallel to the first planar member. The second planar member has a plurality of attach points that match a plurality of attach points on the electronic device. Additionally, the apparatus has a first support bar connected to and positioned normal to the first planar member and the second planar member.