Self-locking Cable Retainer with Individual Latch Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional cable retention mechanisms either use a single locking mechanism for multiple cables, risking accidental disconnection or bulky individual mechanisms that consume space, and often require special tools for removal, especially in confined spaces.
Innovation Solution
A self-locking electrical cable retainer with individual port retention mechanisms that are self-opening and self-locking, utilizing a two-stage actuation scheme with flexible latches and guides to securely engage and disengage cables without additional hardware or tools, allowing for high port density and easy installation and removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single locking mechanism is used for multiple cables, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability deteriorates because removal of the locking mechanism allows any number of underlying cables to be disconnected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the cable retention system into individual latch mechanisms, with each latch independently securing a specific cable. This segmentation allows each cable to have its own retention control, preventing accidental disconnection of multiple cables when one is removed, while keeping the overall device complexity manageable through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism (the latch with actuator) between the cable and the retention structure. This intermediary provides a controlled interface that requires deliberate action to disengage, enhancing reliability by preventing accidental cable removal while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure
2Reliability
If individual retention mechanisms are used for each cable, then reliability is improved, but device complexity and space consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functions into the single latch structure: the latch body provides retention, the elongated member provides actuation leverage, and the posts provide engagement points. This consolidation achieves reliable individual cable retention while minimizing the number of separate components, thereby reducing overall device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The latch mechanism is designed as a universal component that can retain individual cables while being part of a larger panel structure. The same latch design can be replicated across multiple ports, providing consistent reliability without requiring complex unique mechanisms for each cable location
3Manufacturing precision
If individual retention mechanisms are used for each cable, then cable management precision is improved, but area consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic latch mechanism where the elongated member can flex between engaged and disengaged positions. This dynamic design allows the retention mechanism to achieve precise cable securing when engaged, while requiring minimal space because the disengaged state occupies less volume, thus reducing overall area consumption on the panel
4Ease of operation
If conventional cable retention mechanisms are used, then ease of operation deteriorates due to requirement of special tools and manipulation in confined spaces, but this approach is simpler in structure
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism is designed to be self-actuating through the elongated member that provides mechanical leverage. The structure itself enables the disengagement action without requiring external tools, making the system self-sufficient and easy to operate while maintaining a relatively simple mechanical structure
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosed technology relates to self-locking electrical cable retainers. The cable retainer has a panel with a plurality of bores disposed within and extending longitudinally through the panel. Each bore of the plurality of bores is configured to receive individual cables. The cable retainer also has a plurality of latches. Each latch of the plurality of latches corresponds to a bore. Each latch has a first and second post. The first post is configured to bend the latch to a disengaged position through engagement with a corresponding cable as the cable is pushed longitudinally within the bore. The second post is configured to retain the corresponding cable within the respective bore when the latch returns to an engaged position.