Spring-Loaded Cable Fixing Device for Shallow Grooves
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fixing devices for pipes, tubes, and cables in building structures are either difficult to use or not suitable for removal and reinstallation, often requiring deep grooves and being inadequate for fixing multiple items simultaneously.
Innovation Solution
A flexible fixing device with arm members that can be pressed towards the central portion to fit into a less deep groove, featuring removable members accessible by fingers or pliers for easy installation and removal, and capable of accommodating various cross-sections and multiple items.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If nails or screws are used to fix pipes or cables in grooves, then the fixing can be applied to building structures, but the application is time-consuming and the nails tend to become dislodged
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing device is designed to be self-fixing through spring-loaded arms that automatically expand upon insertion into the groove, eliminating the need for manual hammering or screwing operations. The device fixes itself by utilizing the groove geometry to trigger the expansion mechanism, thereby reducing installation time while maintaining reliable fixation.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixing device employs dynamic spring-loaded arms that can expand and contract. During installation, the arms are compressed for insertion, then automatically expand to engage with the groove walls, providing secure fixation without requiring additional fastening operations. This dynamic mechanism resolves the contradiction between quick installation and reliable fixing.
2Reliability
If a C-shaped clamp with flexible wings is used to fix pipes in grooves, then the fixing device can be attached to the groove, but a deep groove is required and the device cannot be removed
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-loaded arms provide a dynamic expansion mechanism that allows the device to adapt to various groove depths. The arms expand only as much as needed to engage the groove walls, unlike rigid C-shaped clamps that require deep grooves. This dynamic behavior enables the device to function reliably in shallower grooves while maintaining fixation stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixing device changes its physical parameters (arm expansion distance, engagement depth) based on the groove dimensions. The spring mechanism allows the arms to expand to different extents, enabling the device to adapt to varying groove depths without requiring a minimum depth, thereby increasing versatility while maintaining reliable fixation.
3Reliability
If a fixing device is designed to be secure in the groove, then the fixing is reliable, but the device cannot be easily removed or replaced
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-loaded arms provide a reversible fixation mechanism. To remove the device, the arms are simply compressed back, which releases the engagement with the groove walls. This dynamic reversibility allows the device to be securely fixed during operation but easily removed when needed, resolving the contradiction between fixation security and removal ease.
Solution Approach 2:
The removal mechanism utilizes the same spring-loaded principle as the fixation mechanism. By applying a simple compressive force to the arms, the device automatically disengages from the groove without requiring additional removal tools or complex operations. This self-service removal capability maintains both secure fixation and ease of operation.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a fixing device is designed for single-item fixation, then the device structure is simple, but it cannot fix multiple pipes or cables simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing device incorporates multiple spring-loaded arms arranged to engage with multiple pipes or cables simultaneously. Each arm independently engages with an individual item, allowing the device to fix multiple items within a single groove. This multi-functional design enables the device to handle various fixation scenarios without increasing overall structural complexity significantly.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixing device is segmented into multiple independent spring-loaded arms, each capable of engaging with a separate pipe or cable. This segmentation allows the device to adapt to multiple items while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure, as each arm functions independently using the same basic mechanism. The segmented design resolves the contradiction between multi-item capability and structural simplicity.
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
Enables secure temporary fixation of cables, pipes, or tubes in shallower grooves, allowing for easy adjustment and reuse without damaging the device or the groove, supporting a range of dimensions and multiple items within a single groove.
Implementation Method 1
The arm members are configured to be pressed towards the central portion of the fixing device when the fixing device is inserted into the slot or groove
Implementation Method 2
the arm members will exert a force towards the side portions of the groove to maintain the fixing device and, e.g., cable in position in the slot or groove
Implementation Method 3
The one or more removal members advantageously allows for simple removal of the fixing device and, e.g., cable, from the slot or groove
Data Source
Figure 1A~1D
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~3C
AI summary
A fixing device (2) for fixing a cable, pipe or tube to a slot or a groove with side portions is disclosed. The fixing device comprises a body portion (4) provided with a cavity (16) for receiving a cable, pipe or tube through an opening (38) in the body portion in order to fix the cable, pipe or tube to the fixing device. The fixing device comprises one or more arm members (10, 10') attached to the body portion in an area of said opening. The one or more arm members are configured to be pressed towards the body portion while inserting the fixing device to the slot or groove and are configured to exert a force towards the side portions of the slot or groove when the fixing device has been attached to the slot or groove. The fixing device comprises one or more removal members (8, 8') that are accessible when the fixing device has been attached to the slot or groove.