Top Drive Service Loop Cable With Embedded Lay Line
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Solution Overview
Problem
Dynamic top drive service loop cables are prone to deformation and damage due to torsional stresses from twisting and improper installation, as existing solutions like printed lay lines are not durable and provide inadequate alignment guidance during installation and use.
Innovation Solution
A top drive service loop cable assembly with an embedded lay line embossed into the jacket, aligned with internal cable components, to ensure proper alignment and minimize pre-tension, using materials like Chlorinated Polyethylene or Thermoplastic polyurethane, and created through a process involving marker tape and vulcanization during extrusion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a printed lay line is used on the cable jacket, then alignment guidance is provided during installation, but the marking is easily removed with solvents or covered with dirt, making it non-durable
Solution Approach 1:
The lay line is embossed into the cable jacket during the cable manufacturing process, creating a permanent alignment indicator that cannot be removed or obscured during installation and service. This preliminary action ensures the alignment guidance remains intact throughout the cable's operational life.
2Ease of operation
If the cable is installed with a cast (rotated connection points), then connection is achieved, but additional torsional stress is applied to the internal cable components, causing premature failure
Solution Approach 1:
The embossed lay line serves as a visual guide to prevent improper casting during installation. By aligning the connection points with the lay line, installers can avoid applying additional torsional stress to the internal cable components, thereby preventing premature failure.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the internal cable components are twisted together in a helical or S-Z stranding, then cable flexibility and length adjustment are accommodated, but induced torsion is trapped in the conductors, creating pre-tensioned stress
Solution Approach 1:
The embossed lay line acts as an intermediary reference that helps installers properly align and install the cable, minimizing the impact of trapped torsion from the helical or S-Z stranding. By following the lay line during installation, the cable can maintain its flexibility while reducing the pre-tensioned stress on internal components.
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
The embedded lay line provides a permanent and durable alignment indicator that prevents additional torsional strain during installation and operation, ensuring the internal cables remain in the least stressed state, reducing the risk of premature failure and facilitating proper reinstallation.
Implementation Method 1
created through a process involving marker tape and vulcanization during extrusion
Data Source
AI summary
A top drive service loop cable assembly including a plurality of cabled internal cable components a jacket covering the internal cable components, and a flange connected to the jacket and supporting sat internal cable components. The jacket has an embedded lay line embossed into the cable, aligned with internal cable components.