Cable Tray Splice Clip With Sliding Latch and Wire Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional methods for joining sections of cable trays require multiple parts and tools, leading to increased complexity and risk of electrical bonding loss over time.
Innovation Solution
A splice clip with a bolt and retainer system that provides a tool-free, push-on, sliding/latching mechanism for secure mechanical and electrical bonding of cable tray sections, using a bolt with ledges and pockets to retain wires and guidance features for easy installation and secure engagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional methods using nuts, bolts, and washers are used to join cable tray sections, then mechanical connection is achieved, but device complexity increases and installation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions (mechanical connection, electrical bonding, and wire retention) into a single integrated splice clip assembly. The splice clip incorporates a retainer with pockets for wire management and a bolt mechanism for secure attachment, eliminating the need for separate nuts, washers, and wire management components. This merging of functions directly reduces the number of parts and simplifies the installation process.
2Reliability
If traditional bonding methods are used, then electrical bonding connection is established, but reliability decreases over time due to loosening parts
Solution Approach 1:
The splice clip incorporates a dynamic retention mechanism where the bolt can be inserted and removed while the retainer maintains wire retention capability. The retainer features pockets that actively hold wires in place during installation and operation, providing continuous electrical bonding without relying on static fastening alone. This dynamic design ensures the bonding connection remains reliable throughout the service life of the cable tray system.
3Productivity
If multiple parts are used for joining cable tray sections, then secure connection is achieved, but installation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The splice clip is designed as a segmented assembly with distinct functional components (retainer with pockets, bolt, and clip elements) that can be independently manufactured and assembled. This segmentation allows for pre-assembly of the retainer and wire retention features, enabling rapid field installation. The modular design reduces on-site assembly time while maintaining the security of the connection.
4Ease of operation
If traditional fastening methods are used, then mechanical connection is achieved, but ease of operation decreases due to tool requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The splice clip incorporates a self-contained design where the retainer with integrated pockets performs multiple functions (wire management, alignment, and retention) without requiring external tools or additional components. The bolt mechanism is designed to work with the retainer in a self-service manner, eliminating the need for separate nuts and washers. This self-service design simplifies installation while the integrated manufacturing of the retainer and clip components maintains manufacturing efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
A splice clip for coupling discrete sections of a wire mesh cable tray. The splice clip can include a bolt with a base, a first ledge, and a second ledge opposing the first ledge. The base and the first and second ledges can define a passageway along the bolt. The splice clip can also include a retainer with a set of pockets, including a first pocket and a second pocket, and a set of guidance features configured to translate within the passageway to guide the bolt along and in engagement with the retainer. The first pocket can be configured to receive a first wire of a first discrete cable tray section and the second pocket can be configured to receive a second wire of a second discrete cable tray section. The bolt can be movable along the retainer between an open position and a closed position.