Stackable Cable Reel Supports for Stable Vertical Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional cable payout devices are difficult to store compactly due to their weight and irregular shape, leading to instability and safety concerns when stacked, as they are prone to shifting and tipping.
Innovation Solution
The use of stackable supports comprising a dividing plate and collars with adjustable mechanisms to secure spacers, which distribute the weight and resist horizontal forces, allowing for vertical stacking of cable reel rollers while maintaining stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If cable payout devices are stacked vertically for compact storage, then storage space efficiency is improved, but stability deteriorates due to tipping and shifting risks
Solution Approach 1:
Stacking blocks serve as intermediary elements between cable reel rollers during vertical stacking. These blocks provide a stable interface that distributes weight and prevents direct contact between irregular surfaces, thereby maintaining stack stability while enabling compact vertical storage configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The collars integrated into the support structure serve multiple functions: they provide structural support, enable vertical stacking through standardized interfaces, and prevent horizontal shifting. This multi-functionality allows a single component to address both storage efficiency and stability requirements simultaneously.
2Ease of operation
If cable reel rollers are positioned with rollers on the top face for open loading, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to roller damage during stacking
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is segmented into distinct functional zones: the top face maintains the roller mechanism for loading operations, while the sides incorporate protective collars. This segmentation allows the loading function to remain accessible while the collars provide protective encapsulation for the rollers during stacking operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The collars are positioned beforehand to enclose and protect the roller mechanisms before stacking occurs. This pre-positioned protective structure prevents damage during subsequent stacking operations, allowing the rollers to remain exposed on the top face for easy loading while being protected during storage.
3Strength
If conventional cable payout devices are used, then strength is improved, but ease of operation worsens due to difficulty in transport and positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure incorporates dynamic stacking capabilities that allow the rigid, strong cable reel rollers to be reconfigured into vertical stacks. The standardized interfaces and stacking blocks enable these heavy devices to be easily transported and repositioned as modular units, transforming their static strength into dynamic operational flexibility.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein are stackable cable payout devices and systems for converting cable payout systems to stackable systems. Methods of stacking cable payout devices, such as cable reel rollers are also disclosed herein. Stacking systems disclosed herein may be adjustable, and may accommodate materials commonly available at storage facilities. Devices, systems, and methods disclosed herein allow increased efficiency in storage of cable payout machinery.