Unitary Clamp Cable Fixing for Faster Secure Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional cable fixing systems for electrical equipment in hazardous locations require multiple specialized components, leading to time-consuming assembly and the need for customized fasteners.
Innovation Solution
A simplified cable fixing system comprising a plug with a 2-part housing and a gland nut assembly secured by a single unitary clamp, utilizing standard screws and a reduced number of components for efficient cable securing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple specialized components are used in the cable fixing system, then the cable attachment security is improved, but the assembly time and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp integrates multiple functions into a single unitary body: it provides cable engagement through its C-shaped configuration, structural support through the base portion, and mounting capability through integrated screw receptacles. This merging of functions reduces the number of components from eight to five, directly decreasing assembly time while maintaining cable attachment security.
Solution Approach 2:
The unitary clamp serves multiple purposes simultaneously: it clamps the cable, supports the gland nut assembly, provides mounting points for fasteners, and structurally connects to both the cable and the gland nut. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate specialized components, reducing assembly complexity and time.
2Reliability
If multiple specialized components are used in the cable fixing system, then the cable attachment security is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp combines multiple specialized components into a single unitary body, reducing the total component count from eight to five. The integrated design merges the cable engagement feature, structural support base, and mounting receptacles into one piece, directly reducing device complexity while maintaining attachment security.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp is strategically segmented into functional portions (engagement portion, base portion, receptacle portions) within a single unitary body. This segmentation provides the functional differentiation of multiple components while maintaining the simplicity of a single piece, reducing device complexity without sacrificing cable attachment security.
3Manufacturing precision
If customized fasteners are used, then the assembly precision is improved, but the ease of manufacture decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The unitary clamp is designed to work with standard screws and nuts through integrally formed receptacles, eliminating the need for customized fasteners. This universal compatibility with standard hardware significantly improves ease of manufacture while the precise geometry of the receptacles maintains assembly precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp's receptacle portions are integrally formed as copies of standard fastener receptacles, allowing standard screws and nuts to fit precisely without requiring customized fasteners. This copying of standard interface geometries maintains assembly precision while dramatically improving ease of manufacture.
Data Source
AI summary
A cable fixing system including a plug including a handle body and a contact assembly disposed at least partially within the handle body. A gland nut assembly includes a gland nut configured for attachment to the handle body of the plug. A clamp is mountable on the gland nut to secure a cable to the gland nut. The clamp includes a single unitary body.