Ultrasonic Probe Strain Relief with Ferrite Core and Rubber Insert
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Solution Overview
Problem
The cables connecting probes to the main body of ultrasonic diagnostic apparatuses are prone to bending and subsequent damage due to mechanical stress, leading to potential breakage at the contact points.
Innovation Solution
A strain relief apparatus comprising an insert part with a ferrite core and a rubber part formed by insert-injection molding, which provides a secure and flexible interface to absorb impact and prevent rotation, thereby protecting the cable from damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the cable is connected directly to the probe switch box, then the connection is simple, but the cable is prone to bending and damage during probe movement
Solution Approach 1:
The cable connection system is divided into multiple segments: the cable, the rubber part (strain relief), the ferrite core, and the probe switch box. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function - the rubber part absorbs bending stress while the ferrite core provides electromagnetic shielding and structural support, thereby protecting the cable from damage during probe movement
Solution Approach 2:
The rubber part acts as an intermediary component between the cable and the probe switch box. It absorbs mechanical stress from cable bending and prevents this stress from being transmitted to the cable's contact points, thereby protecting the cable from damage while maintaining connection integrity
2Reliability
If multiple separate components are used for strain relief, then cable protection is improved, but manufacturing complexity and assembly steps increase
Solution Approach 1:
The rubber part and the ferrite core are merged into a single integrated component through insert-injection molding. The ferrite core is inserted into the rubber part in one manufacturing process, creating a unified strain relief assembly that protects the cable while reducing the number of separate components and simplifying assembly steps
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated rubber part with embedded ferrite core serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides strain relief by absorbing bending stress, offers electromagnetic shielding through the ferrite core, and acts as a structural support for the cable connection. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components while maintaining comprehensive cable protection
3Ease of operation
If the insert part can rotate on the probe switch box, then ease of installation is improved, but rotation causes friction and damage to the strain relief apparatus
Solution Approach 1:
The insert part features an asymmetric D-cut portion that prevents rotation when mounted on the probe switch box. This asymmetric design ensures the insert part can only be installed in one specific orientation, eliminating rotational movement that would cause friction and damage to the strain relief apparatus while maintaining ease of installation through a simple snap-fit mechanism
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 strain relief apparatus effectively reduces the risk of cable damage from bending and mechanical stress, simplifies manufacturing by reducing components and assembly steps, and lowers production costs.
Implementation Method 1
a rubber part provided to the insert part by injection molding... protects a cable of an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus from impact exerted on the cable and suppresses influence on a contact point between a probe switch box and the cable by bending of the cable
Implementation Method 2
a ferrite core mounted on the insertion recess
Data Source
AI summary
A strain relief apparatus of a probe and a method of manufacturing the same are disclosed. The strain relief apparatus includes an insert part mounted on a probe switch box and having an insertion recess at an inner side thereof, a ferrite core mounted on the insertion recess, and a rubber part provided to the insert part by injection molding. The strain relief apparatus protects a cable of an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus from impact exerted on the cable and suppresses influence on a contact point between a probe switch box and the cable by bending of the cable, thereby preventing damage of the cable.