Zero Stack Cable Clamp Chassis for Strain Relief
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cable strain relief and grounding systems for electronics modules are suboptimal, particularly when multiple cables are connected to narrow modules, leading to interference with adjacent modules, complex installation, and difficulties in accommodating cables of different sizes or when some cables are omitted.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution involves a cable clamp chassis with zero stack configuration cable mounting locations centered on a common reference plane, secured by clamps that connect the EMI shield to the chassis, allowing for efficient strain relief and grounding without interfering with adjacent modules, and featuring a ratchet mechanism for easy tool-free tightening and loosening.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple cables are connected to narrow modules using known cable strain relief systems, then cable connection is achieved, but the cables are positioned outside the module width causing interference with adjacent modules
Solution Approach 1:
The cable mounting locations are arranged in a zero stack configuration where multiple cables are positioned in the same plane (parallel to the left and right side walls) rather than extending beyond the module width in a perpendicular direction. This dimensional reorganization allows multiple cables to be accommodated within the module's width without interfering with adjacent modules.
2Reliability
If known cable clamping structures are used to secure cables to the chassis, then cable strain relief is provided, but the structures are difficult to use and require special tools
Solution Approach 1:
The cable clamp features a ratchet mechanism that allows the clamp to be tightened and secured without requiring special tools. The ratchet mechanism enables the clamp to self-adjust and lock onto the cable, providing reliable strain relief while simplifying the installation process to require only basic manual operation.
3Reliability
If known cable clamping structures are used, then cable securing is achieved, but the structures are subject to loss of parts and are too complex
Solution Approach 1:
The cable clamp integrates multiple functions into a single component: the clamping mechanism, the strain relief structure, and the grounding connection are combined into one unified device. This merging eliminates the need for separate parts that could be lost and simplifies the overall clamping structure while maintaining reliable cable securing.
4Adaptability or versatility
If known cable mounting arrangements are used, then cable connection is achieved, but they do not work well when cables of different sizes must be accommodated or when some cables are omitted
Solution Approach 1:
The cable clamp features an adjustable ratchet mechanism that can dynamically adapt to different cable sizes. The ratchet teeth and pawl arrangement allow the clamp to be adjusted to accommodate various cable diameters while maintaining secure holding force, ensuring reliable mounting whether one or multiple cables of different sizes are present.
Data Source
AI summary
An electronics module includes a cable clamp chassis projecting outward from a wall of the module. The cable clamp chassis includes first and second cable mounting locations adapted to receive respective first and second cables. The cable mounting locations each include an axially extending recess located adjacent a first reference plane. Each of the cable mounting locations includes an inner surface with an innermost point that lies tangent to a second reference plane that is parallel to and offset from the first reference plane such that the first and second cables are arranged in a zero stack configuration. A clamp is secured to the cable clamp chassis and adapted to secure the first and second associated cables in the first and second cable receiving locations.