Rotating Locking Screws for Cable Snagging in Tight Spaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cable systems face difficulties in easy movement and retraction due to snagging of locking screws on obstacles or other cables, especially when passing through tight spaces, which can lead to catastrophic system failures.
Innovation Solution
A device with a cylindrical collar and angled arms with ball and socket connectors is affixed to the cable, providing a tapered surface and allowing screw rotation, facilitating smooth retraction by transitioning from the cable's thin diameter to the thicker connector cover, preventing snagging and enabling alignment through restricted spaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If locking screws protrude from the cable end connector cover at right angles, then mechanical strain relief and secure locking are achieved, but cable retraction is hindered due to snagging on obstacles or other cables
Solution Approach 1:
The locking screws are designed to rotate from a protruding position during connection to a retracted position during cable withdrawal. This dynamic transformation allows the screws to provide mechanical strain relief and secure locking when needed, then clear the path for smooth cable retraction by rotating into the cable end connector cover
Solution Approach 2:
The cable management system is divided into functional segments: the cable end connector cover with integrated locking mechanism, the protruding locking screws that can rotate independently, and the tapered surface that guides cable movement. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while resolving the contradiction between secure locking and easy retraction
2Stability of the object's composition
If the cable end connector cover extends at right angles from the cable, then proper alignment and mechanical support are provided, but passage through tight spaces is inhibited
Solution Approach 1:
A tapered surface is introduced as a transitional dimensional feature between the cable axis and the perpendicular connector cover. This tapered transition zone allows the cable to be pulled at an angle through restricted spaces while the connector cover maintains its perpendicular orientation for proper alignment, effectively adding a dimensional transition that resolves the spatial conflict
3Ease of manufacture
If locking screws are inserted parallel to the cable axis, then connection to threaded nuts is facilitated, but the cable becomes resistant to passage through tight spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The locking screws are designed with rotational capability, transitioning from a parallel insertion position that facilitates connection to threaded nuts, to a retracted position that restores cable flexibility. This dynamic adjustment allows the screws to serve their manufacturing and connection purpose while minimizing interference with cable movement through tight spaces
Data Source
AI summary
Herein are provided a series of embodiments of a cable management device for use with cables with end connector covers. The device provides a tapered surface between the cable and locking screws so as to eliminate right angles which catch during movement of the cord. The device facilitates easy retraction of cables with bulky terminals through constricted spaces, eliminates snagging on other cables, and simplifies cable routing and use. The device further provides a means of rotating the screws while the device is in place. The device can be affixed to existing or newly manufactured cables.