Press Frame for Powered Cable Connector Compression
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tools for attaching electrical connectors to cables, particularly coaxial cables, face challenges in applying sufficient compressive force, especially for large diameter 'Hard Line' cables, and are not portable enough for on-site use at remote locations.
Innovation Solution
A press frame designed for use with a hand-held powered press tool, featuring a movable plunger, stationary anvil, and interchangeable shoes, which applies large compressive forces to securely attach connectors to cables, accommodating various sizes and configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If hand operated tools are used for affixing connectors, then the tool is portable and easy to operate, but the compressive force generated is insufficient for large diameter Hard Line coaxial cables
Solution Approach 1:
A power transmission element (hydraulic or pneumatic) is introduced as an intermediary between the portable power source and the connector compression mechanism. This allows the hand-held tool to generate high compressive forces through fluid pressure while remaining portable and easy to operate.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention utilizes hydraulic or pneumatic systems within the hand-held tool to amplify the operator's input force into high compressive forces capable of deforming connectors on large diameter Hard Line coaxial cables, while maintaining the tool's portability.
2Force
If automated crimping devices are used for high force applications, then sufficient compressive force is achieved, but the device is not portable and cannot be used at remote locations
Solution Approach 1:
The heavy stationary components of automated crimping systems are extracted and replaced with a portable power source (hydraulic or pneumatic) that can be manually carried to remote locations. The power transmission element delivers the necessary force without requiring the entire system to be heavy and stationary.
Solution Approach 2:
A power transmission element serves as a mediator that connects the portable power source to the compression mechanism, enabling high force application at remote locations without requiring the tool itself to be heavy like traditional automated systems.
3Reliability
If connectors are compressed to establish secure electrical connection, then connection reliability is improved, but the tool complexity increases to accommodate various connector types and configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The press frame is designed with universal features that can accommodate various connector types, sizes, and configurations through interchangeable components and adjustable settings, allowing a single tool to reliably connect different connector types without increasing overall system complexity.
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 secure and efficient attachment of connectors to cables with high compressive force, suitable for large diameter cables and remote locations, improving connection reliability and portability.
Implementation Method 1
a movable plunger disposed within the hollow interior defined in the frame and adapted to engage the ram in the tool and transmit the press force from the press tool
Implementation Method 2
Compressive forces of either or both types, are applied to deform the connector, which retains its deformed shape to maintain the resulting joined configuration of the connector and cable
Data Source
AI summary
A press frame for attaching connectors to workpieces such as cables and pipes is described. The press frame is adapted to be releasably attached to a hand-held, battery powered press tool. The press frame includes selectively interchangeable components that enable a wide range of different styles, sizes, and configurations of electrical connectors to be attached to cables.