Twistable Security Cable With Plastically Deformable Core
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional security cables fail to provide a reliable means of locking objects in place, especially during transportation, as they do not allow sufficient twisting or bending to securely attach objects to structures, leading to potential theft or rattling issues.
Innovation Solution
A security cable with a plastically-deformable central core having shape retention characteristics, surrounded by wire groups and a flexible outer coating, equipped with a coupling mechanism that includes a lock, allowing manual deformation and retention of shapes to securely attach objects to structures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional security cables are used to prevent theft, then security is improved, but the cables cannot prevent substantial movement or rattling of the object
Solution Approach 1:
The cable incorporates a plastically-deformable central core that allows dynamic shape changes during installation and use. The core can be manually deformed to various shapes and will retain those shapes, enabling the cable to adapt to different securing scenarios while maintaining security.
Solution Approach 2:
The cable's physical parameters are changed by allowing manual deformation of the central core to different shapes. This parameter change enables the cable to conform to various object geometries and securing requirements, transforming from a rigid security element to an adaptable securing solution.
2Reliability
If conventional security cables are used to secure objects, then security is provided, but the cables do not allow sufficient twisting or bending to tightly secure objects
Solution Approach 1:
The central core is designed to be plastically-deformable, allowing the cable to transition from a fixed configuration to multiple deformable states. This dynamic property enables sufficient twisting and bending while maintaining the security function through the retention of deformed shapes.
Solution Approach 2:
The cable's shape parameters are made changeable through manual deformation of the central core. The core can be twisted, bent, and shaped to various configurations, providing the adaptability needed to tightly secure objects while the plastic deformation ensures the shape is retained for secure fastening.
3Ease of operation
If a separate tie-down strap is used with security cable to prevent movement, then object stability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the functions of the security cable and the tie-down strap into a single integrated cable. The plastically-deformable central core with shape retention characteristics combines the security function with the movement-prevention function, eliminating the need for separate tie-down straps and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The cable is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: providing security through its strength and durability, preventing movement through shape retention, and allowing flexibility for various securing configurations. This multi-functionality replaces what previously required multiple separate 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 cable effectively secures objects by retaining shapes and configurations, reducing rattling and theft risks during transportation, while allowing for adjustable tension and flexibility.
Implementation Method 1
a plastically-deformable central core having shape retention characteristics
Implementation Method 2
the central core is structured to substantially retain the cable in each of the plurality of shapes
Data Source
AI summary
A twistable security cable including a cable and a coupling device. The cable includes a central core, two or more wire groups positioned about the central core, and an outer coating. The central core is structured to retain a shape to which it is deformed, and each of the wire groups includes two or more braided or twisted wires. The coupling mechanism is structured to selectively retain first and second ends of the cable in close proximity to one another.