Simulated Distributor Cable Holder for Engine Aesthetics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Automotive enthusiasts seek to recreate the aesthetic and functional aspects of older ignition systems in modern fuel injection systems, which have eliminated components like distributors and distributor caps, leading to a desire for simulated components that maintain aesthetics while performing a beneficial function.
Innovation Solution
A simulated distributor cable holder is designed to organize and secure various engine cables, resembling a traditional distributor system, with a shaft and cap portion configured to resemble a distributor, featuring apertures for spark plug cables and a crankcase breather hose, and a base plate for mounting, creating a hollow path to channel cables while mimicking the appearance of a distributor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If fuel injection systems eliminate distributor components, then system complexity and maintenance are reduced, but aesthetic appeal and nostalgic value are lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a simulated distributor cap and rotor assembly that visually replicates the appearance of traditional distributor components. The simulated cap includes molded features resembling terminal holes, rotor housing, and mounting flanges, while the rotor assembly copies the visual characteristics of a conventional distributor rotor with its central post and terminal extensions. This copying approach allows the system to maintain aesthetic appeal and nostalgic value without the functional complexity of actual distributor components.
2Shape
If simulated distributor components are added, then aesthetic appeal is restored, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The simulated distributor system is divided into separate functional segments: a simulated distributor cap, a simulated rotor assembly, and cable retainers. Each segment is designed to be independently installable and visually distinct. The cap can be mounted separately from the rotor assembly, and cable retainers can be positioned independently. This segmentation allows the aesthetic components to be added without requiring integration into the existing fuel injection system's complex control architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The simulated distributor components are designed as cosmetic accessories rather than functional system components. They serve primarily aesthetic purposes and can be easily installed or removed without affecting the core fuel injection system. The simulated cap and rotor are essentially decorative elements that do not require complex electronics, sensors, or control mechanisms, thereby adding minimal complexity to the overall system.
3Device complexity
If cables are left exposed, then system simplicity is maintained, but aesthetic appeal and cable organization are poor
Solution Approach 1:
The simulated distributor cap and rotor assembly serve as intermediary structures that organize and route the spark plug cables. The cap includes cable retainers and mounting points that guide cables into neat arrangements, while the rotor assembly provides a central anchor point for cable routing. These intermediary components do not add complex functional systems but provide structural elements for cable management, improving aesthetics without significant complexity increases.
Data Source
AI summary
A cable holder for securing a plurality of vehicle engine cables while simulating a vehicle engine distributor comprises a shaft portion and a cap portion provided at a top of the shaft portion. The cap portion cooperates with the shaft portion to define a central passageway therethrough. At least one opening is provided proximate a bottom of the shaft portion and opening to the central passageway, and a plurality of upper apertures are provided proximate a top of the cap portion and opening to the central passageway. A hollow path is formed between the at least one lower aperture and plurality of upper apertures to channel a plurality of vehicle engine cables through the cable holder.