| |
| United States Patent
|
7,243,429 |
| Landes , et al. |
July 17, 2007 |
Wire stripper systems
Abstract
A hand-held system adapted to assist stripping of an undulating
outer jacket of a twisted pair wire. The system incorporates cutters
to provide two longitudinal cuts through the outer jacket of the
twisted shielded pair wire. The cutters are removable and
replaceable.
| Inventors: |
Landes; Mark J.
(Bemidji, MN), Landes; James M. (Bemidji, MN) |
| Appl. No.:
|
11/277,209 |
| Filed: |
March 22, 2006 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
Issue Date |
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60665059 |
Mar., 2005 |
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| Current U.S.
Class: |
30/90.4 ;
30/90.1; 81/9.44 |
| Current
International Class: |
H02G
1/12 (20060101) |
| Field of
Search: |
30/90.1,90.2,90.4,90.8,90.6 81/9.4,9.44 |
References Cited
[Referenced By]
U.S. Patent
Documents
Primary Examiner: Payer; Hwei-Siu
Attorney, Agent or Firm:
Stoneman Volk Patent Group Stoneman; Martin L.
Parent Case Text
The present application is related to and claims priority from prior
provisional application Ser. No. 60/665,059 filed Mar. 23, 2005,
entitled "WIRE STRIPPER SYSTEMS", the content of which is
incorporated herein by this reference and is not admitted to be
prior art with respect to the present invention by the mention in
this cross-reference section.
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A system, relating to the stripping of at least one outer jacket
from at least one wire having at least one irregular outer
peripheral shape, comprising: a) at least one receiver adapted to
receive at least one portion of the at least one wire; b) at least
one rotator adapted to assist rotation of said at least one receiver
relative to the at least one wire; and c) at least one hand-holdable
housing adapted to house said at least one rotator and said at least
one receiver; d) wherein said at least one receiver comprises i) at
least one first cutter adapted to produce at least one first
longitudinal cut through the at least one outer jacket, ii) at least
one second cutter adapted to produce at least one second
longitudinal cut through the at least one outer jacket, and iii) at
least one positioner adapted to position said at least one first
cutter and said at least one second cutter adjacent the at least one
outer jacket to assist in generating such at least one first
longitudinal cut and such at least one second longitudinal cut; e)
wherein said at least one positioner comprises, coupled to said at
least one receiver, at least one first pivot member adapted to
pivotally engage said at least one first cutter with the at least
one outer jacket; f) wherein said at least one positioner comprises,
coupled to said at least one receiver, at least one second pivot
member adapted to pivotally engage said at least one second cutter
with the at least one outer jacket; g) wherein said at least one
positioner comprises at least one manual actuator adapted to assist
manual actuation of said at least one first pivot member and said at
least one second pivot member; h) wherein said at least one first
cutter comprises at least one first cutting die adapted to engage at
least one first portion of the at least one outer jacket; i) wherein
said at least one second cutter comprises at least one second
cutting die adapted to engage at least one second portion of the at
least one outer jacket; and j) wherein said at least one first
cutting die and said at least one second cutting die each comprise
at least one cutting blade.
2. The system according to claim 1 wherein: a) said at least one
first cutting die and said at least one second cutting die together
comprise at least one shaped channel adapted to pass the at least
one wire; b) said at least one shaped channel comprises at least one
irregular inner peripheral shape; and c) said at least one irregular
inner peripheral shape substantially matches such at least one
irregular outer peripheral shape of the at least one wire.
3. The system according to claim 1 wherein said at least one first
cutting die and said at least one second cutting die are
substantially identical.
4. The system according to claim 1 further comprising at least one
lateral positioner adapted to laterally position said at least one
first cutting die relative to said at least one second cutting die
during use.
5. The system according to claim 4 wherein: a) said at least one
lateral positioner comprises at least one projecting tab and at
least one recessed socket; b) said at least one projecting tab is
adapted to engage said at least one recessed socket; and c) each one
of said at least one first cutting die and said at least one second
cutting die comprise said at least one projecting tab and said at
least one recessed socket.
6. The system according to claim 1 wherein: a) each said at least
one cutting blade is permanently embedded within a respective said
at least one first cutting die and said at least one second cutting
die.
7. The system according to claim 1 wherein: a) said at least one
receiver comprises at least one tubular member comprising at least
one longitudinal axis and at least one hollow interior portion
coaxial with said at least one longitudinal axis; b) said at least
one hollow interior portion is adapted to accommodate the at least
one portion of the at least one wire; c) said at least one rotator
comprises at least one first rotatable bearing adapted to
rotationally support said at least one tubular member and at least
one second rotatable bearing adapted to rotationally support said at
least one tubular member; and d) said at least one first rotatable
bearing is movable relative to said at least one tubular member.
8. The system according to claim 7 wherein said at least one manual
actuator comprises said at least one first rotatable bearing.
9. The system according to claim 8 wherein said at least one first
rotatable bearing comprises: a) at least one first friction reducer
adapted to reduce friction between said at least one manual actuator
and said at least one first pivot member; and b) at least one second
friction reducer adapted to reduce friction between said at least
one manual actuator and said at least one second pivot member.
10. The system according to claim 8 wherein said system further
comprises: a) at least one cut length gauge comprises i) at least
one rod adapted to adapted to gauge at least one length of at least
one of such at least one first longitudinal cut and such at least
one second longitudinal cut, ii) at least one collet nut adapted to
adjustably retain said at least one rod within said at least one
hollow interior portion; b) wherein said at least one tubular member
comprises at least one threaded end adapted to threadably receive
said at least one collet nut.
Description
BACKGROUND
This invention relates to providing a system for improved wire
stripper systems. More particularly this invention relates to
providing a system relating to the stripping of an undulating outer
jacket of a twisted wire, especially twisted pair wire.
Twisted wire (such as Mil-Spec twisted shielded pair wire) is
presently used in nearly every new aircraft avionics installation.
Present techniques to properly strip and prepare the wire ends, for
attachment to the electronics systems, are difficult and
inefficient.
The difficulty in stripping twisted shielded wire arises from the
non-uniformity of the shaped outer jacket. Presently, a razor blade
is used to create a longitudinal slice through the outer jacket
along the length of the portion of jacket to be removed. The outer
jacket is then peeled away from the inner structure, and is removed
with snips or by performing a circumferential cut with the razor
blade. This technique is inexact, cumbersome and time consuming.
OBJECTS AND FEATURES OF THE INVENTION
A primary object and feature of the present invention is to provide
a system to overcome the above-mentioned problems.
Another object and feature of the present invention is to provide a
hand-held system adapted to assist stripping of an undulating outer
jacket of a twisted wire such as a twisted pair wire.
Another object and feature of the present invention is to provide a
system incorporating cutting means for providing at least one
longitudinal cut through the outer jacket of the twisted shielded
wire.
It is a further object and feature of the present invention to
provide such a system that is manually actuated without the need for
electrical motivation or control.
Another object and feature of the present invention is to provide a
system incorporating multiple dies forming a specially shaped
aperture for receiving twisted shielded wire.
It is a further object and feature of the present invention to
provide such a system wherein the cutting means for cutting the
outer sleeve is user replaceable/renewable.
A further primary object and feature of the present invention is to
provide such a system that is efficient, inexpensive, and handy.
Other objects and features of this invention will become apparent
with reference to the following descriptions.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In accordance with a preferred embodiment hereof, this invention
provides a system relating to the stripping of at least one outer
jacket from at least one twisted wire comprising: receiver means for
receiving at least one portion of the at least one twisted wire; and
rotator means for permitting rotation of such receiver means
relative to the at least one twisted wire; wherein such receiver
means comprises first cutter means for producing at least one first
longitudinal cut through the at least one outer jacket, second
cutter means for producing at least one second longitudinal cut
through the at least one outer jacket, and positioner means for
positioning of such first cutter means and such second cutter means
adjacent the at least one outer jacket to permit such at least one
first longitudinal cut and such at least one second longitudinal
cut.
Moreover, it provides such a system further comprising grip means
for assisting user griping of such receiver means. Additionally, it
provides such a system further comprising manual actuator means for
permitting manual actuation of such positioner means. Also, it
provides such a system further comprising cut length gauge means for
gauging at least one length of at least one of such at least one
first longitudinal cut and such at least one second longitudinal
cut. In addition, it provides such a system wherein: such first
cutter means is useable as such second cutter means; and such second
cutter means is usable as such first cutter means. And, it provides
such a system wherein: such first cutter means and such second
cutter means each comprise removable coupler means for permitting
removable coupling to such receiver means; and such first cutter
means and such second cutter means are user replaceable after at
least one use.
In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this
invention provides a system, relating to the stripping of at least
one outer jacket from at least one twisted wire having at least one
outer peripheral shape, comprising: receiver means for receiving at
least one portion of the at least one twisted wire; and rotator
means for permitting rotation of such receiver means relative to the
at least one twisted wire; wherein such receiver means comprises
cutter means for producing at least one longitudinal cut through the
at least one outer jacket, positioner means for positioning of such
cutter means adjacent the at least one outer jacket to permit such
at least one longitudinal cut, and shape conformer means for shape
conforming to the at least one outer peripheral shape of such at
least one twisted wire during the production of such at least one
longitudinal cut.
In accordance with a preferred embodiment hereof, this invention
provides a system, relating to the stripping of at least one outer
jacket from at least one wire having at least one irregular outer
peripheral shape, such system comprising: at least one receiver
adapted to receive at least one portion of the at least one wire;
and at least one rotator adapted to assist rotation of such at least
one receiver relative to the at least one wire; wherein such at
least one receiver comprises at least one first cutter adapted to
produce at least one first longitudinal cut through the at least one
outer jacket, at least one positioner adapted to position such at
least one cutter adjacent the at least one outer jacket to assist in
generating such at least one longitudinal cut, and at least one
shape conformer adapted to conform to the at least one irregular
outer peripheral shape of such at least one wire during the
generation of such at least one longitudinal cut.
Moreover, it provides such a system wherein: such at least one
receiver comprises at least one channel adapted to pass the at least
one wire; such at least one shape conformer comprises at least one
irregular inner peripheral shape within such at least one channel;
and such at least one irregular inner peripheral shape substantially
matches such at least one irregular outer peripheral shape.
Additionally, it provides such a system wherein: such at least one
channel comprises such at least one first cutter; and such at least
one channel further comprises at least one second cutter adapted to
produce at least one second longitudinal cut through the at least
one outer jacket. Also, it provides such a system wherein: such at
least one first cutter and such at least one second cutter rotates
with such at least one receiver during operation; and such at least
one first cutter and such at least one second cutter operate
essentially contemporaneously. In addition, it provides such a
system further comprising: at least one hand-holdable housing
adapted to house such at least one rotator and such at least one
receiver.
In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this
invention provides a system, relating to the stripping of at least
one outer jacket from at least one wire having at least one
irregular outer peripheral shape, comprising: at least one receiver
adapted to receive at least one portion of the at least one wire;
and at least one rotator adapted to assist rotation of such at least
one receiver relative to the at least one wire; wherein such at
least one receiver comprises at least one first cutter adapted to
produce at least one first longitudinal cut through the at least one
outer jacket, at least one second cutter adapted to produce at least
one second longitudinal cut through the at least one outer jacket,
and at least one positioner adapted to position such at least one
first cutter and such at least one second cutter adjacent the at
least one outer jacket to assist in generating such at least one
first longitudinal cut and such at least one second longitudinal
cut.
And, it provides such a system further comprising at least one hand-holdable
housing adapted to house such at least one rotator and such at least
one receiver. Further, it provides such a system wherein such at
least one positioner comprises: coupled to such at least one
receiver, at least one first pivot member adapted to pivotally
engage such at least one first cutter with the at least one outer
jacket; coupled to such at least one receiver, at least one second
pivot member adapted to pivotally engage such at least one second
cutter with the at least one outer jacket; and at least one manual
actuator adapted to assist manual actuation of such at least one
first pivot member and such at least one second pivot member.
Even further, it provides such a system further comprising at least
one cut length gauge adapted to gauge at least one length of at
least one of such at least one first longitudinal cut and such at
least one second longitudinal cut. Moreover, it provides such a
system wherein: such at least one first cutter is useable as such at
least one second cutter; and such at least one second cutter is
usable as such at least one first cutter. Additionally, it provides
such a system wherein such at least one first cutter and such at
least one second cutter each comprise at least one removable coupler
to assist removable coupling with such at least one receiver.
Also, it provides such a system wherein: such at least one first
cutter comprises at least one first cutting die adapted to engage at
least one first portion of the at least one outer jacket; such at
least one second cutter comprises at least one second cutting die
adapted to engage at least one second portion of the at least one
outer jacket; and such at least one first cutting die and such at
least one second cutting die each comprise at least one cutting
blade. In addition, it provides such a system wherein: such at least
one first cutting die and such at least one second cutting die
together comprise at least one shaped channel adapted to pass the at
least one wire; such at least one shaped channel comprises at least
one irregular inner peripheral shape; and such at least one
irregular inner peripheral shape substantially matches such at least
one irregular outer peripheral shape of the at least one wire.
And, it provides such a system wherein such at least one first
cutting die and such at least one second cutting die are
substantially identical. Further, it provides such a system further
comprising at least one lateral positioner adapted to laterally
position such at least one first cutting die relative to such at
least one second cutting die during use.
Even further, it provides such a system wherein: such at least one
lateral positioner comprises at least one projecting tab and at
least one recessed socket; such at least one projecting tab is
adapted to engage such at least one recessed socket; and each one of
such at least one first cutting die and such at least one second
cutting die comprise such at least one projecting tab and such at
least one recessed socket. Even further, it provides such a system
wherein: each such at least one cutting blade is permanently
embedded within a respective such at least one first cutting die and
such at least one second cutting die.
Even further, it provides such a system wherein: such at least one
receiver comprises at least one tubular member comprising at least
one longitudinal axis and at least one hollow interior portion
coaxial with such at least one longitudinal axis; such at least one
hollow interior portion is adapted to accommodate the at least one
portion of the at least one wire; such at least one rotator
comprises at least one first rotatable bearing adapted to
rotationally support such at least one tubular member and at least
one second rotatable bearing adapted to rotationally support such at
least one tubular member; and such at least one first rotatable
bearing is movable relative to such at least one tubular member.
Furthermore, it provides such a system wherein such at least one
manual actuator comprises such at least one first rotatable bearing.
Even further, it provides such a system wherein such at least one
first rotatable bearing comprises: at least one first friction
reducer adapted to reduce friction between such at least one manual
actuator and such at least one first pivot member; and at least one
second friction reducer adapted to reduce friction between such at
least one manual actuator and such at least one second pivot member.
Even further, it provides such a system wherein: such at least one
cut length gauge comprises at least one rod adapted to adapted to
gauge at least one length of at least one of such at least one first
longitudinal cut and such at least one second longitudinal cut, at
least one collet nut adapted to adjustably retain such at least one
rod within such at least one hollow interior portion; wherein such
at least one tubular member comprises at least one threaded end
adapted to threadably receive such at least one collet nut.
In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this
invention provides a system, relating to the stripping of at least
one outer jacket from at least one twisted electrical wire having at
least one twisted outer peripheral shape, comprising: at least one
receiver adapted to receive at least one portion of the at least one
twisted electrical wire; at least one rotator adapted to assist
rotation of such at least one receiver relative to the at least one
twisted electrical wire; and at least one hand-holdable housing
adapted to house such at least one rotator and such at least one
receiver; wherein such at least one receiver comprises at least one
cutter adapted to generate at least one longitudinal cut through the
at least one outer jacket, at least one positioner adapted to
position such at least one cutter adjacent the at least one outer
jacket to assist in generating such at least one longitudinal cut,
and at least one shape conforming guide adapted to guide such at
least one cutter along the at least one twisted outer peripheral
shape of such at least one twisted electrical wire during the
generation of such at least one longitudinal cut.
Even further, it provides such a system wherein: such at least one
shape conforming guide comprises at least one shaped channel adapted
to pass the at least one twisted electrical wire; and such at least
one shaped channel comprises such at least one cutter. Moreover, it
provides such a system wherein such at least one wire comprises at
least two twisted conductors.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 shows a perspective view illustrating a twisted shielded wire
of the type used in aircraft electrical systems.
FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of a wire stripping tool of a wire
stripper system according to a preferred embodiment of the present
invention.
FIG. 3A shows an exploded view of the wire stripping tool according
to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 2.
FIG. 3B shows a partial exploded view of a forward cutting assembly
of the wire stripping tool according to the preferred embodiment of
FIG. 2.
FIG. 3C shows a partially assembled exploded view of the forward
cutting assembly of FIG. 3B.
FIG. 4A shows a sectional view through the section 4A--4A of FIG. 2,
illustrating the wire stripping tool in an open position, according
to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 2.
FIG. 4B shows a detailed sectional view through the section 4B--4B
of FIG. 2, illustrating the wire stripping tool in an open position,
according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 2.
FIG. 4C shows a perspective view of a pivoting armature, isolated
from the wire stripping tool for clarity, illustrating a preferred
mechanical operation of the preferred embodiment of FIG. 2.
FIG. 5 shows a sectional view of the section 4A--4A of FIG. 2
illustrating the wire stripping tool in a closed position.
FIG. 6 shows a detail sectional view 6--6 of FIG. 5, illustrating
the wire stripper system in a closed position.
FIG. 7A shows a front perspective view of a cutting die set,
according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 2.
FIG. 7B shows a rear perspective view of a cutting die set,
according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 2.
FIG. 8 shows a front perspective view of a cutting die set, in an
operable cutting position, according to the preferred embodiment of
FIG. 2.
FIG. 9 shows a front view of a preferred cutting die half portion,
according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 2.
FIG. 10 shows a top view of a preferred cutting die half portion,
according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 2.
FIG. 11 shows a rear view of a preferred cutting die half portion,
according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 2.
FIG. 12 shows a side view of a preferred cutting die half portion,
according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 2.
FIG. 13 shows a front view of preferred cutting blade positioning
within the cutting die set, according to the preferred embodiment of
FIG. 2.
FIG. 14 shows a side view of the wire stripping tool, according to
the preferred embodiment of FIG. 2.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE BEST MODES AND PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF
THE INVENTION
FIG. 1 shows a perspective view illustrating twisted shielded wire
101 of the type used in aircraft electrical systems. Twisted
shielded wire 101 comprises a non-uniformly shaped outer jacket 103,
as shown. Outer jacket 103 may be manufactured from a
Teflon-containing material (Tefzel), or similar material, and is
adapted to protectively cover underlying braided shield 105 and
insulated conductors 107, as shown. Twisted shielded wire 101
displays the inherent helical (spiral) outer contour common in
twisted shielded pair wire.
FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of wire stripping tool 102 of wire
stripper system 100 according to a preferred embodiment of the
present invention. FIG. 3A shows an exploded view of wire stripping
tool 102 according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 2. FIG. 3B
shows a partial exploded view of forward rotating cutting assembly
104 of wire stripping tool 102 according to the preferred embodiment
of FIG. 2. Reference is now made to FIG. 2 through FIG. 3B, with
continued reference to FIG. 1.
Preferably, wire stripping tool 102 is adapted to make two
longitudinal slits on opposing sides of outer jacket 103 of twisted
shielded wire 101 of FIG. 1. Preferably, wire stripping tool 102
produces quick, uniform, and depth-accurate scoring of outer jacket
103 thus assisting the removal of unwanted portions of outer jacket
103, from the twisted wire, while leaving the underlying braided
shield 105 substantially intact. The illustrated embodiment of FIG.
2 is preferably adapted to the specific task of stripping the outer
jacket twisted-pair wire. Upon reading the teachings of this
specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues
such as intended use, trends in aviation electronics, etc., other
stripper arrangements, such as, for example, arrangements to strip
twisted wire comprising three or more conductors, a single
conductor, etc., may suffice.
Preferably, wire stripping tool 102 is sized and arranged to operate
as a hand-held tool, as shown. Preferred dimensions of the example
wire stripping tool 102 are presented in FIG. 14, below.
Preferably, wire stripping tool 102 comprises handgrip 110, thumb
actuator 112, and rotating shaft 114, as shown. Preferably, handgrip
110 (at least embodying herein grip means for assisting user griping
of such receiver means) comprises a hollow, essentially cylindrical,
member, symmetrically configured about longitudinal axis 116, as
shown. Preferably, handgrip 110 comprises an internal bore 140
adapted to receive a concentrically positioned,
complementary-shaped, extension 142 of thumb actuator 112, as shown.
Preferably, internal bore 140 and extension 142 each comprise an
essentially circular cross section. In addition, handgrip 110 of
wire stripping tool 102 further comprises a grip assisting finish,
preferably a pattern of diamond knurling, applied to assist the user
in maintaining a hand-held grip during use.
Preferably, thumb actuator 112 (at least embodying herein manual
actuator means) is adapted to move independently of handgrip 110.
Preferably, thumb actuator 112 is adapted to move forward and back
along a line essentially parallel to longitudinal axis 116, as
described below.
Preferably, rotating shaft 114 (at least embodying herein at least
one rotator adapted to assist rotation of such at least one receiver
relative to the at least one wire) is situated coaxially along
longitudinal axis 116, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this
specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues
such as intended use, etc., other tool arrangements, such as, for
example, combining a wire stripper with a bench mounted fixture,
etc., may suffice.
Preferably, the forward end of rotating shaft 114 comprises cutting
assembly 124, as shown (at least embodying herein at least one
positioner adapted to position such at least one cutter adjacent the
at least one outer jacket to assist in generating such at least one
longitudinal cut). Preferably, cutting die set 131 of cutting
assembly 124 is free to rotate with rotating shaft 114 (at least
embodying herein at least one rotator adapted to assist rotation of
such at least one receiver relative to the at least one wire;
wherein such at least one first cutter and such at least one second
cutter rotate with such at least one receiver during operation),
allowing a specially positioned set of cutting blades 132 to track
along the spiraled outer shape of the wire, producing two
longitudinal cuts within outer jacket 103. Preferably, rotating
shaft 114 is supported within at least one, preferably two
low-friction bearings, each adapted to rotationally support rotating
shaft 114 within wire stripping tool 102. Preferably, the forward
end of rotating shaft 114 is engaged in front bearing 118, with the
trailing end of rotating shaft 114 preferably supported within rear
bearing 120, as shown. Preferably, front bearing 118 (at least
embodying herein at least one first rotatable bearing) is engaged
within a modified bearing cage 115 recessed within thumb actuator
112, as shown. Preferably, rear bearing 120 is recessed within the
distal end of handgrip 110, as shown. Preferably, both front bearing
118 and rear bearing 120 are adapted to allow rotating shaft 114 to
freely rotate within thumb actuator 112 and handgrip 110 during use.
Preferably, front bearing 118 comprises a thin-section bearing, as
shown. Bearings preferably suitable for use as rear bearing 120 are
model 7Y55-PSS11250 available through Stock Drive Products/Sterling
Instrument (SDP-SI) of New Hyde Park, N.Y. Thin section bearings
suitable for use as front bearing 118 are available from National
Precision Bearing, Inc. of Preston, Wash.
Preferably, rotating shaft 114 (at least embodying herein receiver
means for receiving at least one portion of the at least one twisted
wire) comprises a generally cylindrical rod having a circular
interior channel 122 that is preferably adapted to receive a length
of twisted shielded wire 101 (at least embodying herein at least one
tubular member comprising at least one longitudinal axis and at
least one hollow interior portion coaxial with such at least one
longitudinal axis).
Preferably, rotating shaft 114 is adapted to receive the operable
components of cutting assembly 124 (at least embodying herein
positioner means for positioning of such first cutter means and such
second cutter means adjacent the at least one outer jacket to allow
such at least one first longitudinal cut and such at least one
second longitudinal cut), as shown.
Preferably, cutting assembly 124 comprises first armature 126 and
second armature 128, as shown. Preferably, the proximal ends of
first armature 126 and second armature 128 are pivotally fixed to
rotating shaft 114 (as best illustrated in FIG. 3C). Preferably, the
proximal ends of first armature 126 and second armature 128 are
pivotally fixed to rotating shaft 114 using a set of retaining pins
119, as shown. Preferably, the distal ends of first armature 126 and
second armature 128 support the cutting die set 131, discussed
above. More specifically, the distal ends of first armature 126 and
second armature 128 each preferably comprise a cutting die half
portion 130, as shown. Preferably, the two cutting die half portions
130 combine to form cutting die set 131 (at least embodying herein
at least one receiver adapted to receive at least one portion of the
at least one wire).
Preferably, each cutting die half portion 130 comprises a cutting
blade 132, preferably adapted to pierce outer jacket 103 (the outer
protective case) of twisted shielded wire 101. Preferably, each
cutting die half portion 130 comprises a symmetrical mounting
configuration allowing the same die to be installed on first
armature 126 or second armature 128 (in an inverted position), as
shown, (at least embodying herein wherein such first cutter means is
useable as such second cutter means and such second cutter means is
usable as such first cutter means). Upon reading the teachings of
this specification, those of ordinary skill in the art will now
understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such
issues as intended use, cost, etc., other blade arrangements, such
as, for example, double-sided blades, reversible blades, etc., may
suffice. Furthermore, upon reading the teachings of this
specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues
such as intended use, cost, etc., other armature-die arrangements,
such as, for example, using three or more armature-die assemblies,
using a single articulated armature in conjunction with a fixed arm
arrangement, etc., may suffice.
Preferably, the distal end of each armature divides to form a pair
of aperture-containing projections 121, as shown. Preferably, the
rear face of each cutting die half portion 130 comprises a pair of
sockets 123 (see FIG. 7B) adapted to receive projections 121.
Preferably, cutting die half portions 130 are firmly retained on
their respective armature using a retaining pin 125, as shown.
Preferably, first armature 126 and second armature 128 are adapted
to allow user removal and replacement of cutting die half portions
130 to renew the cutting blades contained therein. Preferably,
retaining pin 125 comprises a roll-type pin adapted to be field
serviceable (at least embodying herein, wherein such at least one
first cutter and such at least one second cutter each comprise at
least one removable coupler to assist removable coupling with such
at least one receiver).
Although cutting die half portions 130 are preferably identical, for
clarity in the subsequent discussions, cutting die half portion 130
mounted to first armature 126 shall hereinafter be identified as
cutting die half portion 130' (at least embodying herein at least
one first cutter adapted to produce at least one first longitudinal
cut through the at least one outer jacket) and the cutting die
mounted to second armature 128 shall hereinafter be identified as
cutting die half portion 130'' (at least embodying herein at least
one second cutter adapted to produce at least one second
longitudinal cut through the at least one outer jacket).
Preferably, the forward end of rotating shaft 114 comprises a pair
of opposing longitudinal slots identified herein as first slot
receiver 146 and second slot receiver 148, as shown. Preferably,
first slot receiver 146 is adapted to receive first armature 126,
and second slot receiver 148 is adapted to receive second armature
128, as shown. Preferably, first slot receiver 146 and second slot
receiver 148 are each adapted to contain one of the armatures during
cutting, as described below.
FIG. 3C shows an exploded view of a partially assembled forward
cutting assembly 124. In the illustration of FIG. 3C, first armature
126 and second armature 128 have been mounted to rotating shaft 114,
as shown. For clarity, in FIG. 3C, the forward end of rotating shaft
114 has been pulled away from bearing cage 115, as shown.
Preferably, bearing cage comprises inner bore 127, as shown.
Preferably, the inner diameter of inner bore 127 is sized slightly
larger than the outer diameter of rotating shaft 114. This preferred
arrangement allows substantially free movement of bearing cage 115
along rotating shaft 114, as shown (at least embodying herein
wherein such at least one first rotatable bearing is movable
relative to such at least one tubular member).
Preferably, first slot receiver 146 and second slot receiver 148 are
preferably sized to allow first armature 126 and second armature 128
to retract substantially flush with the outer circumferential face
of rotating shaft 114 as bearing cage 115 is moved toward actuator
stop 162. Preferably, actuator stop 162 functions to limit the
forward travel (toward the cutting die) of bearing cage 115 (and
thumb actuator 112) relative to rotating shaft 114. Preferably,
actuator stop 162 comprises at least one, preferably two collar
segments situated circumferentially around opposing sides of
rotating shaft 114, as shown. Specifically, actuator stop 162 limits
forward movement of bearing cage 115 to prevent it from contacting
the cutting die. Preferably, actuator stop 162 is integrally formed
with rotating shaft 114, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of
this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues
such as cost, intended use, etc., other stopping arrangements, such
as, for example, screw posts, adjustable collars, terminating
channels, etc., may suffice.
FIG. 4A shows a sectional view through the section 4A--4A of FIG. 2
illustrating wire stripping tool 102 in an open position, according
to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 2. FIG. 4B shows a detailed
sectional view through the section 4B--4B of FIG. 2 also
illustrating the wire stripping tool in an open position. FIG. 4C
shows a perspective view of first armature 126, isolated from the
wire stripping tool 102 for clarity, illustrating a preferred
mechanical operation of the preferred embodiment of FIG. 2.
Reference is now made to FIG. 3C through FIG. 4C, with continued
reference to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2.
Preferably, first armature 126 and second armature 128 are biased to
maintain a generally open position by spring 136 and spring 138,
respectively, as shown. Preferably, spring 136 and spring 138 are
positioned within receiving sockets formed within armature 126 and
second armature 128, as shown. Springs suitable for use as spring
136 and spring 138 include model S78CSY-005006031 available through
Stock Drive Products/Sterling Instrument (SDP-SI) of New Hyde Park,
N.Y.
Most preferably, first armature 126 and second armature 128 are each
biased to a generally open position by the "V"-shape profile of the
armatures, as described below. Preferably, the upper and lower faces
of first armature 126 and second armature 128 comprise guide slots
129, as shown. Preferably, each guide slot 129 is adapted to accept
the circumferential rolling edge of one of a pair of rolling wheels
133 mounted within bearing cage 115, as shown. Wheels 133 (at least
embodying herein at least one first friction reducer adapted to
reduce friction between such at least one manual actuator and such
at least one first pivot member; and at least one second friction
reducer adapted to reduce friction between such at least one manual
actuator and such at least one second pivot member) preferably
function to reduce friction between components as bearing cage 115
is moved toward actuator stop 162. Preferably, each wheel 133 is
retained within a transverse slot 137 formed within inner bore of
127 of bearing cage 115, as shown. Preferably, axles 135 extend
through bearing cage 115 to support wheels 133 within the slots, as
shown. Preferably, the distance between axles 135 is fixed, as
shown.
Preferably, manual movement of thumb actuator 112 toward cutting
assembly 124 (relative to handgrip 110) urges bearing cage 115
toward actuator stop 162. This preferably drives wheels 133 forward
within each respective guide slot 129, as best illustrated in FIG.
4C. Recalling that the distance between axles 135 is fixed, moving
the assembly of bearing cage 115 and wheels 133 forward preferably
pivots armature 126 and second armature 128 toward longitudinal axis
116, as shown. The arrow depiction of FIG. 4C generally indicates
the preferred linear movement of wheels 133, and pivotal movement of
armature 126 and second armature 128. This action preferably rotates
cutting die half portion 130' into contact with cutting die half
portion 130'', as illustrated in FIG. 5 (at least embodying herein
at least one manual actuator adapted to assist manual actuation of
such at least one first pivot member and such at least one second
pivot member).
Preferably, manual movement of thumb actuator 112 away from cutting
assembly 124 (relative to handgrip 110) drives wheels 133 rearward
within each respective guide slot 129 to engage a raised end portion
159 of each armature, as shown. Preferably, raised end portion 159
is located across the pivot axis of retaining pins 119, as shown.
This preferred arrangement results in the outward rotation of first
armature 126 and second armature 128, away from longitudinal axis
116. This highly arrangement is most preferred as it eliminates the
need for spring 136 and spring 138 within the assembly.
FIG. 5 shows a sectional view of the section 4A--4A of FIG. 2
illustrating wire stripping tool 102 in a closed position. FIG. 6
shows a detail sectional view 6--6 of FIG. 5 illustrating the wire
stripper system in the closed (locked) position of FIG. 5. In
preferred use, a length of twisted shielded wire 101 (shown in
dashed line depiction) is inserted into the cutting-assembly end of
interior channel 122, as shown. Preferably, wire stripping tool 102
incorporates cut length gauge 233 to allow repetitive removal of the
same length jacket from multiple wires (an alternate preferred
cut-length arrangement is also presented below).
Preferably, cut length gauge 233 (at least embodying herein at least
one cut length gauge adapted to gauge at least one length of at
least one of such at least one first longitudinal cut and such at
least one second longitudinal cut) is adjusted by gripping exposed
end to allow a sliding manipulation of the gauge shaft 150 within
interior channel 122. Preferably, gauge shaft 150 of cut length
gauge 233 comprises a series of calibrated indents 152, adapted to
adjustably position cut length gauge 233 within wire stripping tool
102, thus assisting the user in setting a specific cut length.
Preferably, interior channel 122 comprises at least one, preferably
a pair of ball-nose spring plungers 145, functioning as detents to
engage calibrated indents, thus holding cut length gauge 233 in a
selected position. Ball-nose spring plungers suitable for use as
ball-nose spring plungers 145 are model 3408A88 available through of
McMaster-Carr of Atlanta, Ga. Preferably, ball-nose spring plungers
145 are disposed within a threaded passage, extending through
rotating shaft 114, essentially perpendicular to longitudinal axis
116. It should be noted that ball-nose spring plungers 145 are not
used within wire stripping tool 102 when an alternate collet
assembly is preferably used, as described below.
Preferably, once twisted shielded wire 101 is positioned within wire
stripping tool 102; cutting die half portion 130' and cutting die
half portion 130'' are clamped (locked) onto twisted shielded wire
101 by sliding thumb actuator 112 towards actuator stop 162.
Preferably, as thumb actuator 112 is directed forward, armature 126
and second armature 128 are urged into first slot receiver 146 and
second slot receiver 148 by the constriction imposed by wheels 133
of bearing cage 115. Preferably, both cutter dies are rotated to
pierce outer jacket 103 (the outer protective case shown in FIG. 1)
while leaving the immediate-inner-layer braided shield intact.
Preferably, after cutting die half portion 130' and cutting die half
portion 130'' are locked onto twisted shielded wire 101, wire
stripping tool 102 is pulled along twisted shielded wire 101, making
two simultaneous longitudinal cuts within the outer jacket (at least
embodying herein wherein such at least one first cutter and such at
least one second cutter operate essentially contemporaneously). The
preferred novel arrangements of wire stripping tool 102 allow
cutting assembly 124 to rotationally follow the spiral contour of
twisted shielded wire 101 as wire stripping tool 102 is pulled from
the point of cutter engagement to the end of the wire.
Preferably, bringing cutting die half portion 130' and cutting die
half portion 130'' together forms a shaped aperture identified
herein as wire channel 160 (as best shown in FIG. 6). Preferably,
wire channel 160 is non-circular, as shown. Preferably, wire channel
160 (at least embodying herein at least one shape conformer adapted
to conform to the at least one irregular outer peripheral shape of
such at least one wire during the generation of such at least one
longitudinal cut and at least embodying herein at least one channel
and at least one shaped channel) comprises a shape substantially
matching the transverse cross sectional shape of twisted shielded
wire 101, as best illustrated in the detail inset of FIG. 6.
Although twisted shielded wire 101 comprises a non-uniform
(twisting) peripheral shape along the longitudinal length, twisted
shielded wire 101 generally comprises a relatively uniform
peripheral shape in transverse cross section. Preferably, the
elongated shape of wire channel 160 in contact with outer jacket
103, in combination with the free rotation of cutting assembly 124,
preferably functions to guide cutting assembly 124 along twisted
shielded wire 101 by continuously maintaining the same relative
relationship of wire channel 160 (and cutting blades 132) to the
relatively uniform transverse cross sectional shape of twisted
shielded wire 101.
Most preferably, the interior shape of wire channel 160 is
substantially similar, substantially along its length, to the
twisted outer shape of twisted shielded wire 101, as shown in FIG. 6
and the top view of FIG. 10 (at least embodying herein wherein such
at least one shape conformer comprises at least one irregular inner
peripheral shape within such at least one channel; and such at least
one irregular inner peripheral shape substantially matches such at
least one irregular outer peripheral shape and at least embodying
herein at least one shape conforming guide).
The novel shape of wire channel 160 preferably allows a consistent
rotational tracking of cutting assembly 124 as it rotates along the
spiraling outer jacket 103 of twisted shielded wire 101 during
cutting operations. The preferred shape of wire channel 160 produces
continuous cuts of consistent depth.
Preferably, cutting die set 131 can be size and shape adapted for
specific types of multiple shielded inner wire constructions
including those identified herein. Upon reading the teachings of
this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues
such as intended use, new and emerging wire design, etc., other
aperture arrangements, such as, for example, circular apertures,
multiple apertures, apertures comprising other regular polygonal
shapes, wire-specific aperture shapes, etc., may suffice.
FIG. 7A shows a front perspective view of cutting die set 131,
according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 2. FIG. 7B shows a
rear perspective view of cutting die set 131, preferably comprising
cutting die half portion 130' and cutting die half portion 130'', as
shown.
Preferably, cutting die half portion 130' and cutting die half
portion 130'' are identical in physical shape. This modular
arrangement preferably allows installation of cutting die half
portion 130' and cutting die half portion 130'' on either first
armature 126 or second armature 128.
Preferably, cutting die half portion 130 (comprising cutting die
half portion 130' and cutting die half portion 130'') comprises tab
175 and socket 176, as shown (at least embodying herein at least one
lateral positioner adapted to laterally position such at least one
first cutting die relative to such at least one second cutting die
during use). Preferably, each tab 175 functions to guide twisted
shielded pair wire 101 to the correct position within wire channel
160 as die half portion 130' and cutting die half portion 130'' are
moved together. In addition, tab 175 and socket 176 preferably
function to positionally interlock and laterally support cutting die
half portion 130' and cutting die half portion 130'' during use.
FIG. 8 shows a front perspective view of cutting die set 131, in an
operable cutting position, according to the preferred embodiment of
FIG. 2. Preferably, when tab 175 and socket 176 are inter-engaged,
cutting die 131 operates as a substantially unitary element.
Preferably, cutting die half portions 130 are molded from at least
one rigid plastic, with glass-filled nylon being preferred.
FIG. 9 shows a front view of a preferred cutting die half portion
130, according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 2. FIG. 10 shows
a top view of a preferred cutting die half portion 130, according to
the preferred embodiment of FIG. 2. FIG. 11 shows a rear view of a
preferred cutting die half portion 130, according to the preferred
embodiment of FIG. 2. FIG. 12 shows a side view of a preferred
cutting die half portion 130, according to the preferred embodiment
of FIG. 2.
In preferred embodiments of cutting die half portion 130, cutting
blade 132 is permanently bonded within cutting die half portion 130.
In this arrangement, cutting die half portion 130 preferably
comprises a disposable, re-orderable part. In alternate preferred
embodiments of cutting die half portion 130, cutting blade 132 is
removable from cutting die half portion 130. In this preferred
arrangement, cutting blade 132 alone comprises a disposable,
re-orderable part. Upon reading the teachings of this specification,
those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under
appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as designer
preference, intended use etc., other die arrangements, such as, for
example, using permanently affixed dies having removable blades,
molding the armatures and dies as a single member, molding the
blades within the dies, etc., may suffice.
Preferably, cutting die half portion 130 comprises a transverse
aperture 147 adapted to receive retaining pin 125, as shown.
Preferably, cutting blade 132 comprises a matched aperture to allow
the passage retaining pin 125, as shown. Preferably, retaining pin
125 functions to assist in securing cutting die half portion 130 to
its respective armature, and to fix cutting blade 132 within cutting
die half portion 130, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this
specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues
such as cost, intended use, etc., other cutting blade arrangements,
such as, for example, providing a cutting blade at a single die-half
only, providing multiple cutting blades in each die-half, using heat
methods of cutting, etc., may suffice.
FIG. 13 shows a front view of preferred positioning of cutting
blades 132 within cutting die set 131, according to the preferred
embodiment of FIG. 2. Preferably, each cutting blade 132 is rotated
within the die to better position the cutting face relative to the
face of outer jacket 103, as shown. Angling cutting blades 132
promotes the preferred spiral cut within outer jacket 103.
Preferably, each cutting blade 132 is rotated about 12 to 13 degrees
relative to longitudinal axis 116, as shown.
FIG. 14 shows a side view of wire stripping tool 102, according to
the preferred embodiment of FIG. 2. Preferably, wire stripping tool
102 comprises an overall length "A" of about 190 millimeters, with a
handgrip diameter "B" of between about 30 millimeters to about 35
millimeters (at least embodying herein at least one hand-holdable
housing adapted to house such at least one rotator and such at least
one receiver). Preferably, rotating shaft 114 comprises an outer
diameter of about 12 to 13 millimeters. Preferably, interior channel
122 comprises an inner diameter of about 3 to 4 millimeters.
Alternate preferred dimensions are dependent on the size and nature
of twisted wire to be stripped. Upon reading the teachings of this
specification, those of ordinary skill in the art will now
understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such
issues as intended use, cost, etc., other system arrangements, such
as, for example, using interchangeable rotating shafts and cutting
dies to accommodate several wire thicknesses, etc., may suffice.
Preferably, handgrip 110, thumb actuator 112, and rotating shaft 114
are constructed of metal, preferably aluminum. Preferably, both
first armature 126 and second armature 128 are constructed from
metal, preferably stainless steel. Upon reading the teachings of
this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues
such as cost, etc., other material selections, such as, for example,
rigid plastics, metals, ceramics, epoxies, composites, etc., may
suffice.
In the following discussion, it is helpful to again refer to the
exploded view of FIG. 3A. Preferably, rotating shaft 114 comprises a
pair of circumferential slots 153 adapted to receive a pair of
retaining rings, retaining ring 156 and retaining ring 158, as best
illustrated in FIG. 5. Preferably, circumferential slots 123 are
situated such that a single retaining ring is positioned closely
adjacent to each side of rear bearing 120, as shown. Preferably, the
above-described arrangement of the retaining rings prevents
essentially all linear movement of rotating shaft 114 along
longitudinal axis 116. Preferably, retaining ring 156 is removable
to assist assembly/disassembly of wire stripping tool 102. Retaining
rings preferably suitable for use as retaining ring 156 and
retaining ring 158 are model S73HW2-100-050 available through of
McMaster-Carr of Atlanta, Ga.
Preferably, wire stripping tool 102 comprises a highly preferred
alternate arrangement for setting the strip length of the twisted
shielded wire 101. Preferably, rotating shaft 114 of wire stripping
tool 102 comprises threaded end 172, as shown. Preferably, threaded
end 172 is adapted to receive threaded collet nut 300, to allow
adjustable retention of cut-length rod 302 within interior channel
122, as best shown in FIG. 3A. Preferably, the cut-length rod is
used to gauge the length of twisted shielded wire 101 to be
stripped. A preferred collet nut 300 comprises commercially
available units such as is presently used for high-speed rotary
tools, for example a Dremel brand rotary tool. A collet nut 300
accepting a smooth rod having an outer diameter closely matching the
interior diameter of interior channel 122 (preferably a 1/8-inch
diameter drill-rod) is presently preferred.
In preferred use, the collet assembly (at least embodying herein at
least one cut length gauge adapted to gauge at least one length of
at least one of such at least one first longitudinal cut and such at
least one second longitudinal cut) is mounted to threaded end 172,
and gauging rod 302 is inserted into the end of rotating shaft 114,
to a selected point, leaving room for a length of wire to be
inserted in the opposite end of rotating shaft 114. Preferably,
tightening of a collet nut 300 compresses an internal collet sleeve
against the rod thereby restraining rod movement relative to
rotating shaft 114. Upon reading the teachings of this
specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues
such as cost, etc., other rod restraining arrangements, such as, for
example, cam-based clamping devices, externally threaded rods,
friction systems, etc., may suffice.
Although applicant has described applicant's preferred embodiments
of this invention, it will be understood that the broadest scope of
this invention includes modifications such as diverse shapes, sizes,
and materials. Such scope is limited only by the below claims as
read in connection with the above specification.
Further, many other advantages of applicant's invention will be
apparent to those skilled in the art from the above descriptions and
the below claims.
* * * * *
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