Structural Cable with Embedded Rigidity for Automated Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional cables lack structural integrity and rigidity, making them difficult to automate in installation and routing, especially in tight spatial constraints, requiring manual placement which is time-consuming and costly.
Innovation Solution
A structural cable with embedded or external structural elements that provides rigidity, allowing manipulation by robotic arms and automated placement, featuring collinear wires or conductors with connectors that can be easily attached using crimping or soldering, and varying geometries for different applications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional flexible cables are used, then ease of manipulation by hand is improved, but ease of automation and structural integrity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The cable incorporates a structural element that changes the mechanical parameters of the cable assembly, providing rigidity in specific directions while maintaining flexibility in others. This allows the cable to be both easy to handle and suitable for automated manipulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The cable assembly combines traditional flexible cable components with a rigid structural element (such as a metal profile or plastic housing), creating a composite structure that integrates both flexibility and rigidity properties needed for automated handling.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional flexible cables are used, then flexibility is improved, but routing precision and maintained form deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The structural element modifies the geometric parameters of the cable assembly, enabling it to maintain predetermined shapes and routing paths while still allowing necessary flexibility for installation and movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The structural element is designed to pre-establish the cable's routing path and shape before installation, allowing the cable to be precisely routed to predetermined locations while maintaining its form throughout operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If manual placement is used, then adaptability to complex environments is improved, but installation time and cost deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The structural element changes the physical parameters of the cable assembly to provide rigidity and stability, enabling robotic arms to accurately place and position the cable in complex environments without requiring manual dexterity.
Solution Approach 2:
The structural cable assembly is designed to be self-positioning and self-aligning through its rigid structure, allowing automated systems to install it without complex manual guidance or adjustment procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
A structural cable comprising a first conductor, a structural element, and a body with proximal and distal ends that is formed around the first conductor and the structural element, wherein the body is made of a non-conducting material.