Segmented Profile Rail for Curved Cable Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing open profile rails, such as C-rails, are inflexible and cannot be easily bent to accommodate curved applications, limiting their use in joints that are not straight.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates slots and incisions transverse to the longitudinal extent of the profile rail, allowing sections to be lengthened or shortened without deformation, providing flexibility and stability, enabling the profile rail to be bent and adapted for curved applications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional C-rails are used, then they provide reliable protection and sealing of cables or pipes, but they cannot be bent and are limited to straight joints only
Solution Approach 1:
The profile rail is segmented into multiple sections connected by hinges, allowing each section to be independently positioned. This segmentation enables the profile rail to adapt to curved joints while maintaining structural stability through the connected sections working together as a unified structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The profile rail transitions from a static, rigid structure to a dynamic, adjustable structure with hinges that allow movement between sections. This enables the profile rail to be configured for both straight and curved applications, providing adaptability while maintaining stability when properly assembled.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the profile rail is made rigid to maintain stability, then it provides reliable protection, but it cannot be easily bent for curved applications
Solution Approach 1:
By dividing the profile rail into separate sections that can be manufactured independently and then connected via hinges, the system achieves both ease of manufacture (each section can be made with standard tools) and flexibility (sections can be angled to create curves).
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge acts as an intermediary element between rigid profile sections, enabling bending and angular adjustments without requiring the entire structure to be flexible or requiring complex manufacturing processes.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the profile rail is designed as a single continuous piece, then it maintains structural integrity, but it cannot be bent without deformation
Solution Approach 1:
The profile rail is divided into multiple discrete sections that maintain individual structural integrity while being connected through hinges. This allows the overall structure to follow curved joints without deforming any single section, preserving both integrity and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The structure transitions from a static continuous piece to a dynamic articulated system where sections can move relative to each other, enabling the profile rail to adapt to curved configurations while each section maintains its structural integrity.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to an open profile rail with a base section and at least one leg section adjoining the base section and angled from it. The profile rail has slots and/or incisions transverse to its longitudinal extent, which are parallel to each other, with at least the slots extending from one section into the adjoining section. Furthermore, slots and incisions alternate in both sections.