Transverse Wire Clamp Connection to Prevent Accidental Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for connecting flexible elongate articles, such as wires and cables, in a transverse or cross relationship are inefficient and prone to accidental release, especially when used in agricultural settings like fruit tree cultivation, where secure and quick connections are necessary to support netting and vines.
Innovation Solution
A connecting device with a first securing arrangement for clamping a first elongate article and a second securing arrangement, featuring a hook formation, that allows for secure transverse connection of flexible or rigid elongate articles, utilizing a compression spring and clamping mechanism to maintain tension and prevent accidental release.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional twisting methods are used to join wires, then the connection can be made with simple tools, but the connection is prone to accidental release and lacks reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting device is divided into distinct functional segments: a body housing, a first securing arrangement for the first elongate article, and a second securing arrangement for the second elongate article. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The securing arrangements are designed to automatically maintain their clamping function without requiring additional active components. The clamping mechanisms self-regulate to maintain secure connections on the elongate articles, eliminating the need for power sources or complex control systems
2Productivity
If manual twisting of wires is used, then installation can be performed with basic tools, but the installation speed is slow and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting device is pre-configured with both securing arrangements in place, allowing the installer to simply thread the elongate articles through the designated paths and engage the clamping mechanisms. The complex positioning and alignment actions have already been performed during device manufacturing
Solution Approach 2:
The clamping mechanisms incorporate movable components that can be easily engaged and disengaged. The securing arrangements transition from an open state during installation to a locked state during use, enabling quick connection and disconnection operations
3Reliability
If simple wire twisting is used to connect transverse wires, then the device structure remains simple, but the connection may accidentally release under tension
Solution Approach 1:
The securing arrangements utilize asymmetric clamping surfaces and engagement geometries that prevent accidental release. The asymmetric design ensures that the clamping force is maintained in the loading direction while requiring significant force to disengage, providing secure connections under tension
Solution Approach 2:
The clamping mechanisms are designed to counteract the tensile forces applied to the elongate articles. The securing arrangements provide opposing forces that balance the tension loads, preventing the connections from releasing under operational stress
4Adaptability or versatility
If a single securing mechanism is used for both elongate articles, then the device structure is simplified, but it cannot accommodate transverse orientation and different article sizes
Solution Approach 1:
Each securing arrangement is designed as a universal interface that can accommodate various sizes and types of elongate articles. The body housing provides a common platform that integrates multiple securing functions, allowing the device to handle different article configurations without requiring separate specialized components
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting device utilizes three-dimensional spatial arrangement to accommodate transverse orientation of the elongate articles. The securing arrangements are positioned and oriented in different dimensions within the body housing, enabling simultaneous connection of articles in perpendicular directions
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 device provides a quick, secure, and efficient method for connecting elongate articles in a transverse orientation, reducing the risk of accidental release and improving installation speed, while being adaptable to various article sizes and diameters, thus enhancing agricultural support structures like vine and tree systems.
Implementation Method 1
The first securing arrangement may comprise a clamping member and an urging member. The urging member may comprise a compression spring.
Data Source
AI summary
A connecting device (10) comprises a first securing arrangement (16) for securing a first elongate article (12) to the connecting device (10). The first elongate article (12) is secured in a first orientation. The connecting device (10) comprises a second securing arrangement (18) for securing a second elongate article (14) to the connecting device (10). The second elongate article (14) is secured in a second orientation. The second orientation is transverse to the first orientation.