Unitary Cable Connector Eliminates Bolt Nut Joint Failure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current connectors, comprising separate bolt and nut pieces, are complicated to assemble and prone to joint failure when joining a cable to an anchor.
Innovation Solution
A single, unitary piece connector with a first end configured to attach to an anchor, a second end for cable joining, and a spacer with an extension facilitating cable connection, eliminating the need for a bolt and nut joint.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If separate bolt and nut pieces are used to join the connector, then the connector can be assembled from multiple components, but the assembly process becomes complicated and the joint is prone to failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the connector body and extension into a single unitary piece, eliminating the need for separate bolt and nut components. This merging of parts simplifies the overall structure while removing the joint that was prone to failure, thereby improving reliability without significantly increasing manufacturing complexity.
2Ease of manufacture
If separate bolt and nut pieces are used to join the connector, then the connector can be assembled from multiple components, but the assembly process becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The connector body and extension are manufactured as a single integrated component, eliminating the need for separate assembly steps involving bolts and nuts. This reduces the number of parts to be assembled and simplifies the manufacturing process while maintaining the functional benefits of having distinct structural zones.
3Reliability
If a unitary piece connector is used, then the assembly process is simplified and joint failure is reduced, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The connector body and extension are formed as a single unitary piece, which eliminates joints and simplifies assembly. While this increases manufacturing complexity compared to simple stamped parts, it can be achieved through standard casting or forging processes that are well-established in the industry, making the trade-off acceptable given the significant reliability improvement.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments disclosed herein provide a connector and a method of using a connector. A connector for joining a cable with an anchor comprises a first end, a second end and a spacer extending between the first end and the second end. An opening is disposed at the first end. The opening has a configuration that mirrors a configuration of the anchor. A guying portion for joining the cable to the connector is disposed at the second end. An extension is disposed adjacent the spacer for facilitating juncture of the cable and the connector. In a method, the anchor is applied to a support surface and the first end and the anchor are joined. A tool that moves the cable in proximity to the guying portion is connected with the extension. The tool is activated to bring the cable closer to the guying portion. A portion of the cable is inserted into the guying portion for joining the cable to the connector. A further connector comprises a first end and a second end. A guying portion for joining a cable to the connector is disposed at the second end. An extension is disposed substantially between the first end and the second end for facilitating juncture of the cable and the connector. In each embodiments the connector is a single, unitary piece.