Segmented Shape Memory Attachment Ring for Cable Shield
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing attachment rings for electrical cables are time-consuming and difficult to position correctly over the shield end before it is received over the backshell fitting, and their removal often requires specialized tools, potentially damaging the cable or backshell.
Innovation Solution
An attachment ring with a heat-recoverable shape memory material that can be assembled in a single segment over the shield end after it has been received over the backshell fitting, using interlocking connection members that can be easily broken for removal without specialized tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a one-piece continuous attachment ring is used, then the attachment ring can be fabricated from shape memory material to hold the shield end on the fitting, but it is time-consuming and difficult to position the attachment ring over the end of the shield before the shield is received over the fitting
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment ring is divided into two separate halves instead of being a one-piece continuous ring. Each half can be independently positioned and assembled onto the shield end, eliminating the difficulty of positioning a complete ring over the shield before it is received over the fitting. This segmentation allows for easier assembly while maintaining the shape memory material's ability to securely hold the shield end on the fitting.
2Strength
If a one-piece continuous attachment ring is used, then the attachment ring provides strong engagement with the shield end, but removal of the attachment ring requires cutting which may damage the fitting or cable
Solution Approach 1:
By dividing the attachment ring into two halves connected by a fractureable connection, the design enables controlled separation at the connection point rather than requiring cutting of the entire ring. This allows for removal of the attachment ring from the shield end without damaging the fitting or cable, while the interconnected halves maintain sufficient engagement strength during use.
Solution Approach 2:
The fractureable connection is designed to break in a controlled manner during removal, allowing the attachment ring to be discarded or recovered without damaging other components. The shape memory material maintains engagement strength during use, but the connection point is intentionally designed to fail safely when removal is needed.
3Reliability
If the attachment ring is positioned over the end of the shield before the shield is received over the fitting, then the attachment ring can be heat recovered into engagement with the shield end, but this process is time-consuming and difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The two-half design allows each half to be independently positioned on the shield end without requiring the entire ring to be positioned beforehand. This eliminates the difficulty of holding and positioning a complete ring, as each half can be separately manipulated and attached, then joined together after the shield is received over the fitting.
4Reliability
If a one-piece continuous attachment ring is used, then the attachment ring provides continuous engagement around the shield circumference, but moving the attachment ring along the cable length is time-consuming and difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The segmented design with two halves connected by a fractureable connection allows the attachment ring to be easily repositioned by simply separating the halves and moving them along the cable. This eliminates the time-consuming process of moving a one-piece continuous ring, as the halves can be independently manipulated and repositioned without requiring the entire ring to be moved as a single unit.
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
This solution simplifies the attachment process, reduces time and cost, and allows for easier and safer removal of the attachment ring without damaging the cable or backshell, increasing efficiency and reducing the need for specialized tools.
Implementation Method 1
Heat is then applied externally by a heat source or generated by the application of current to the attachment ring. The heat applied to the attachment ring recovers, e.g., shrinks, the attachment ring into engagement with the end of the shield.
Data Source
AI summary
An attachment ring is provided for attaching a shield of an electrical cable to a backshell. The attachment ring includes an annular body including a shape memory material that is heat recoverable. The body is configured to extend at least partially around the shield and a fitting of the backshell to hold the shield on the fitting in contact with the fitting. The body includes a single segment having a first end that includes a first connection member, and a second end that opposes the first end. The second end has a second connection member that is configured to be interlocked with the first connection member of the first end to connect the first and second ends together such that the single segment of the body defines a continuous ring.