Spring Preload Adjustment for Long-Life Cable Clamping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cable clamps with elastomer clamping blocks face issues with maintaining sufficient preload force over time due to elastomer degradation, leading to potential loosening and unreliable clamping connections.
Innovation Solution
A device with slidably guided receiving bodies and markings for adjusting the preload force, allowing for optical detection of the required preload through aligned markings, ensuring a stable and defined clamping force.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If elastomer clamping blocks are used in cable clamps, then the clamping force is sufficient initially, but the preload force decreases over time due to elastomer degradation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an adjustable preload mechanism that allows dynamic adjustment of the spring force. The second spring element can be repositioned along the threaded spindle to different axial positions, enabling the preload force to be adapted and maintained throughout the service life of the clamp, compensating for elastomer degradation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the preload parameter by allowing adjustment of the spring's effective length through the position of the second spring element on the threaded spindle. By modifying this geometric parameter, the preload force can be optimized at different stages of the clamp's service life to compensate for material degradation.
2Reliability
If a second spring element is added to maintain preload, then the clamping connection remains reliable, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The second spring element serves multiple functions: it maintains preload force, provides adjustment capability, and works in conjunction with the threaded spindle and lock nut as an integrated adjustment mechanism. This multi-functionality justifies the additional component by consolidating several functions into a coordinated system rather than separate mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustment mechanism is designed to be self-contained, where the second spring element, threaded spindle, and lock nut work together as an automatic adjustment system. The mechanism allows users to adjust and lock the preload force without requiring external tools or complex procedures, making the system self-sufficient.
3Manufacturing precision
If markings are added for preload indication, then the adjustment precision is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses visual markings (color-coded or patterned indicators) on the threaded spindle or clamp body to indicate the correct position of the second spring element for achieving the desired preload force. These markings provide simple visual feedback during assembly and adjustment, enabling precise preload setting without requiring complex measurement instruments or procedures.
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
Ensures consistent and reliable clamping by providing a simple and robust mechanism for adjusting and maintaining the preload force, preventing loosening and ensuring long-term secure cable fixation.
Implementation Method 1
a spring (2) arranged between them, by means of which a pre-tensioning force can be exerted
Implementation Method 2
the threaded spindle (44) of the clamping hook (45), into which the preloading device (17) can be screwed
Data Source
Figure 1~2b
Figure 3
Figure 4a~4b
AI summary
The invention relates to a device for adjusting the preload force of a spring, comprising two receiving bodies (1) which are slidably guided relative to each other by the other receiving body (1) and between which the spring (2) is held, wherein the receiving bodies (1) and the spring (2) have an aligned opening (15) for the passage of a threaded spindle (44) and wherein means for indicating the distance between the two receiving bodies (1) are arranged. The invention further relates to a clamp (3) with such a device.