U-Shaped Cable Bracket With Clamp Halves for Solar Cable Derating
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Solution Overview
Problem
Large solar farms require efficient cable management systems to prevent current derating due to cable crowding, necessitating a secure and easy-to-install bracket that maintains cable separation and minimizes components.
Innovation Solution
A U-shaped bracket with securement slots and clamp halves, featuring button pads and releasable latches, which securely holds and separates cables, and includes messenger wire latches for easy installation and versatility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If cables are laid next to each other in the bracket, then the bracket structure is simple, but the current carrying limit must be derated due to lack of free air space
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket is segmented into multiple compartments or sections that separate cables from each other. Each compartment can hold individual cables or small groups of cables, ensuring adequate free air space around each cable while maintaining an organized and relatively simple overall bracket structure.
Solution Approach 2:
Cable management components such as cable ties, clips, or separators are nested within the bracket structure. These nested elements provide cable separation and maintain free air space without adding significant external complexity to the bracket design.
2Reliability
If cable separation is maintained in the bracket, then derating factor is reduced or eliminated, but the bracket requires more components and complex structure
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functions are merged into a single bracket design: cable support, cable separation, and free air space maintenance are all achieved through an integrated bracket structure rather than separate components. This reduces the number of parts while maintaining cable separation benefits.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket is designed as a multi-functional component that simultaneously provides structural support, cable separation, and airflow management. This universal design eliminates the need for additional specialized components, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining reliable current carrying capacity.
3Ease of operation
If traditional cable management methods are used, then installation is straightforward, but cable separation and free air space are not adequately maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket is pre-configured with separators, compartments, or guiding elements during manufacturing. These preliminary structural features automatically guide cable placement and ensure proper separation and free air space are maintained during installation, making the installation process straightforward while guaranteeing reliable thermal conditions.
Data Source
AI summary
A cable management system designed to support cables in solar applications. The cable management system includes a U-shaped bracket and at least one clamp half. The U-shaped bracket has a base with two arms with each arm including a securement slot. The clamp half has a top, a bottom, a front, a back, and sides with button pads extending from the sides. The clamp half is installed within the U-shaped bracket such that the button pads slide in the securement slots to position the clamp half in the U-shaped bracket. The clamp half separates and supports the cables installed in the U-shaped bracket.