A transit device and system for leading cables or pipes through a partition and use thereof

Abstract

A transit device (10) for leading a cable (11) or a pipe through a partition (12), wherein the transit device comprises a frame (16), a center axis (A), at least one compression unit (17) and at least one compression screw (18) for operating said compression unit (17), wherein the frame (16) comprises at least one axially extending through opening and interconnected walls (19-22) enclosing said opening, wherein the walls have an exterior surface and an opposite interior surface, wherein the interior surface is facing said opening, wherein the compression unit (17) is arranged in the opening of the frame (16) and is operable by means of the compression screw (18) to compress one or more compressible modules (13) arranged in the opening of the frame (16). The frame (16) is formed in a non-conductive material. The transit device (10) comprises a conductive element (38) extending along the interior surface of the frame walls, wherein the conductive element (38) is arranged for contacting a safety grounding conductor (49) of at least one of the compressible modules (13).

Description

[0001] A TRANSIT DEVICE AND SYSTEM FOR LEADING CABLES OR PIPES THROUGH A PARTITION AND USE THEREOF

[0002] Technical Field

[0003] The present invention concerns a transit device for leading one or more cables or pipes through a partition. More specifically, the present invention is related to such a transit device comprising a frame, a center axis, at least one compression unit and at least one compression screw for operating said compression unit. The frame comprises at least one axially extending through opening and interconnected walls enclosing said opening. The compression unit is arranged in the opening of the frame and is operable by means of the compression screw to compress one or more compressible modules arranged in the opening of the frame.

[0004] The present invention is also related to the use of such a transit device for leading a cable or a pipe through a partition. The present invention is also related to a transit system for leading a cable or a pipe through a partition, wherein the transit system comprises the transit device.

[0005] Background

[0006] Transit devices and systems are used for leading cables and pipes through partitions, such as walls, floors and ceilings. Transit devices are used in many different environments, including cabinets, junction boxes, machines and similar, and for different industrial applications, such as for automotive and rolling stock applications, communication, power generation and distribution as well as marine and off-shore applications. Transit systems are often required to have a sealing function, e.g. sealing against different types of liquids, such as water, and / or gases, such as air, depending on the application. To provide a fastening and / or sealing function the cables or pipes are generally arranged in a through opening of a compressible module. One common type of such a module comprises two opposite module halves arranged around the cable or pipe, wherein the modules are arranged in a frame arranged in an opening in the partition. The modules in the frame are then compressed by means of a compression unit to press the modules against the inside of the frame, against each other if applicable, and against the cables or pipes in the modules to fasten the modules and the cables or pipes and seal the transit. The transit system may be arranged to seal against liquid, such as water, gas, fire, rodents, termites, dust, moisture, etc. The transit system and the modules are, for example, arranged for receiving cables for electricity, communication, computers, etc., or pipes for different gases or liquids, such as water, compressed air, hydraulic fluid and cooking gas.

[0007] Transit devices and systems sometimes comprise bonding and grounding features for bonding and grounding electrically shielded cables or electrically conductive pipes arranged in the compressible modules. Electrically shielded cables, i.e. cables comprising a cable screen or shield made of an electrically conductive material, have several applications. The purpose of the screen may be to maintain the quality of the signal conducted through the shielded cable, or to screen the surroundings from electro-magnetic interference (EMI) caused by the signal conducted through the cable, or vice versa. Cables may also be provided with an armor, a metallic enclosure surrounding the cable. Even if the definition would be a bit forced, one might say that the screen or shield serves its function continuously, preventing EMI from travelling into or out of the cable while the armor serves it purpose of preventing sudden failure, since it mechanically prevents the cable from being damaged, or prevents a more severe failure, since it is often used to bond the cable with ground (earth potential). In practice, the screen or shield will also prevent the cable from being damaged (which is the purpose of the armor), at least to some extent, and the armor will also prevent EMI from passing (which is the purpose of the screen or shield).

[0008] The disclosure of the present application mainly relates to applications where a bond to ground is required so that high currents can be lead away, such as grounding in high-power applications, bonding and equipotential bonding and lightning protection. In general the present invention may be used in electrical installations where high current carrying capabilities are required. Examples of typical cables used are metal clad cables and TECK cables, and also wired armoured cables (e.g. SWA cables) and wired braid cables (e.g. SWB cables) i.e. high-performance cables with a metal casing, which cables may be used in hazardous environments. Such grounding is called electrical safety grounding. Generally, electrical safety grounding requires low resistance and high current carrying capability. Electrical safety grounding is not the same as EMI grounding (EMI = electromagnetic interference). Electrical safety grounding is a matter of safety for personnel and equipment whereas EMI grounding protects against electromagnetic interference. The current carrying capability required for electrical safety grounding is typically above 1000 or even 10000 amperes, whereas currents involved in EMI grounding amount to less than 1 ampere and typically milli-amperes, i.e. 10'3amperes.

[0009] One problem with prior art transit devices and systems is that they are difficult and expensive to produce.

[0010] Another problem with prior art transit devices and systems is that they can be difficult to install.

[0011] Another problem with some types of prior art transit devices is that they can be unreliable.

[0012] Summary

[0013] In view of the above one object of the present invention is to provide a transit device and system which can be produced and installed in an easy and efficient manner to provide a reliable transit for cables or pipes.

[0014] The present invention is related to a transit device for leading a cable or a pipe through a partition, wherein the transit device comprises a frame, a center axis, at least one compression unit and at least one compression screw for operating said compression unit, wherein the frame comprises at least one axially extending through opening and interconnected walls enclosing said opening, wherein the walls have an exterior surface and an opposite interior surface, wherein the interior surface is facing said opening, wherein the compression unit is arranged in the opening of the frame and is operable by means of the compression screw to compress one or more compressible modules arranged in the opening of the frame, characterised in that the frame is formed in a non-conductive material and the transit comprises a conductive element extending along the interior surface of the walls, wherein the conductive element is arranged for contacting a safety grounding conductor of at least one of the compressible modules. The combination of the frame in non-conductive material and the conductive element arranged around the opening allows the frame to be formed, such as molded or casted, in plastic or composite materials in an easy and cost efficient manner while the conductive element can be formed in an efficient manner, such as by molding or casting, wherein the transit device can be assembled in an easy manner to provide a transit device for reliable and efficient safety grounding of cables and pipes arranged in the compressible modules inside the frame. For example, the conductive element can be inserted into the opening of the frame.

[0015] The conductive element can be formed of interconnected walls, such as four or more interconnected walls forming one or more through openings in the axial direction corresponding to the through openings of the frame. Hence, the conductive element can be formed as a conductive frame to be inserted into the frame of the transit. The conductive element can be formed as a closed loop. Also the frame can be formed as a closed loop. The conductive element can extend at least partially circumferentially around the through opening(s) of the frame. For example, the conductive element is abutting the interior surface of one or more of the walls of the frame or abutting protrusions projecting radially inward from the interior side of one or more walls of the frame, such as two opposite walls thereof.

[0016] The conductive element can be connected to ground in an easy and reliable manner. For example, the conductive element can comprise a grounding lug for connecting the conductive element to ground. The grounding lug can project from a wall of the conductive element and can optionally be provided with a through hole for connection to a grounding cable or similar.

[0017] The frame can be formed with a recess for receiving the conductive element. The recess can extend from a rear end of the frame and in the axial direction towards a forward end of the frame and may end with an edge between the rear and front ends of the frame, wherein the conductive element can be inserted in the axial direction from the rear end and up to said edge. Hence, efficient assembly of the frame and conductive element is provided while providing efficient sealing against compressible modules arranged inside the frame. A height of the recess can correspond to a thickness of the conductive element. The height of the recess is a dimension in the radial direction perpendicular to the axial direction, wherein the thickness of the conductive element is the thickness of each of the walls thereof. Hence, a level surface of the through opening can be formed for efficient sealing against the compressible modules therein.

[0018] The compression screw can extend through an aperture in one of the frame walls. Hence, the compression unit can be operated in an efficient manner and the compression unit can be connected to the frame through the compression screw.

[0019] The compression unit can comprise a compressible block. The frame can comprise a guiding surface arranged in a plane perpendicular to the center axis, wherein the guiding surface is formed in a single integrated piece in non-conductive material together with the walls of the frame and engages a first side of the compression unit to guide the compression unit when operated by the compression screw. The transit device can also comprise an angle element having a first plate portion and a second plate portion arranged perpendicular to the first plate portion, wherein the first plate portion is arranged in the opening of the frame and comprises a through hole for the compression screw, wherein the second plate portion engages a second side of the compression unit opposite the first side thereof to guide the compression unit when operated by the compression screw. Hence, the compression unit is guided in axially extending planes by three walls of the frame and / or three walls of the conductive element, e.g. in lateral directions and a direction upward (or downward), while being guided in radially extending planes, i.e. in front and rear directions of the transit device, by the guiding surface and the angle element. Hence, efficient guiding of the compression unit is achieved at the same time as the frame and conductive element can be produced in a cost-efficient manner.

[0020] The second plate portion of the angle element can comprise radially projecting wings received in corresponding recesses of the walls of the conductive element to prevent movement of the angle element in a plane of the second plate portion, i.e. a radial plane perpendicular to the axial direction and particularly in a direction along the compression screw.

[0021] The frame and the conductive element can comprise plurality of the through openings, each receiving a compression unit and one or more compressible modules. Hence, the frame can comprise at least one intermediate wall to form the plurality of through openings of the frame, wherein the conductive element can be formed with one or more corresponding intermediate walls axially aligned with the intermediate walls of the frame. The intermediate walls of the frame can extend to the edge of the recess for receiving the conductive element.

[0022] The through hole of the first plate portion can be formed with a thread cooperating with a thread of the compression screw. Alternatively or in addition, the conductive element can be formed with a thread cooperating with a thread of the compression screw. Hence, a robust transit device is obtained while providing for cost- efficient manufacture and reliable safety grounding.

[0023] The frame can be formed in plastic materials or composite materials in a cost- efficient and easy manner. The conductive element can be of metal and can also be formed in a cost efficient and easy manner. Together they can provide a robust transit device with reliable sealing and safety grounding possibilities.

[0024] The transit device can comprise one or more compressible modules having a through opening for receiving a cable or pipe, wherein the one or more compressible modules are arranged in the one or more openings of the frame, wherein a cable screen or armor of the cable or the pipe is connected to a safety grounding conductor of the compressible module, and wherein the safety grounding conductor of the compressible modules are connected, directly or indirectly, to the conductive element. For example, the safety grounding conductor of compressible modules adjacent the conductive element are contacting the conductive element and the safety grounding conductor of other compressible modules are contacting each other and / or a stayplate of the transit device. The present invention is also related to a use of a transit device as set out above for leading a cable or a pipe through a partition. The use may include that the cable screen or armor is in contact with the safety grounding conductor of the compressible modules, wherein the safety grounding conductor of each compressible module is in contact with the conductive element and that the conductive element is connected to ground, so that the cables and pipes arranged in the transit device are safety grounded.

[0025] For example, the frame with the guiding surface can be casted as a single integrated piece, wherein the frame subsequently can be assembled with the conductive element and optionally the angle element to provide for simplified production and easy assembly while making it possible to form the frame, the conductive element and the angle element in different materials.

[0026] The through hole of the first plate portion of the angle element can be formed with a thread cooperating with a thread of the compression screw. Hence, load from the compression screw can be transferred to the angle element instead of or in addition to transferring load to a thread of the frame. This makes it possible to form the frame in materials which do not provide a strong thread. For example, the frame can be formed in non-conductive plastic or composite materials. In addition, the frame can be formed without any thread, which simplifies manufacturing even further. For example, the angle element is formed in a material that provides a strong thread, such as steel. This provides for a strong and durable transit device which can be manufactured in a cost efficient manner while providing for safety grounding of the cables and pipes arranged in the transit device.

[0027] The compression screw can be arranged to rotate in relation to the compression unit, which facilitates operation and durability of the transit device. The compression unit can be rotatably attached to the compression screw and displaceable with the compression screw in a longitudinal direction thereof both in a direction for compression and in a direction for decompression. Hence, decompression is more efficient and reliable.

[0028] The present invention is also related to a transit system for leading a cable or a pipe through a partition, comprising a transit device as set out above and one or more compressible modules arranged within the frame, wherein the compression unit engages at least one of the compressible modules, wherein a cable or pipe is arranged in a through opening of at least one of the compressible modules, wherein a safety grounding conductor of the compressible module is arranged in contact with a cable screen or armor of the cable or the pipe, wherein the safety grounding conductor is connected to the conductive element and wherein the conductive element is connected to ground for safety grounding of the cable or pipe.

[0029] Further objects and advantages of the present invention will be clear to a person skilled in the art when reading the detailed description below.

[0030] Brief Description of the Drawings

[0031] Fig. 1 is a schematic perspective view of a transit device according to one embodiment, illustrating the transit device in a compressed position and with two compressible modules arranged therein,

[0032] Fig. 2 is a schematic rear view of the transit device of Fig. 1,

[0033] Fig. 3 is a schematic section view of the transit device along the line A- A of Fig. 2,

[0034] Fig. 4 is a schematic perspective view of the transit device with two modules arranged therein, wherein the transit device is illustrated in an uncompressed position, Fig. 5 is a schematic rear view of the transit device of Fig. 4,

[0035] Fig. 6 is a schematic section view of the transit device along the line C-C of Fig. 5,

[0036] Fig. 7 is a schematic perspective view of a transit device according to another embodiment,

[0037] Fig. 8 is a schematic exploded perspective view of the transit device of Fig. 7, Fig. 9 is a schematic perspective view of a frame and a conductive element of the transit device of Fig. 7,

[0038] Fig. 10 is a schematic front view of the transit device of Fig. 7, Fig. 11 is a schematic section view along the line A-A of Fig. 10, and Fig. 12 is a schematic perspective view of a part of a transit device according to one example, illustrating a safety grounding conductor of a compressible module in contact with a cable shield or armor of a cable arranged through the compressible module.

[0039] Description of Embodiments

[0040] With reference to Figs. 1-3 a transit device 10 for passing at least one cable 11 and / or at least one pipe through a partition 12 is illustrated schematically according to one embodiment. A part of the partition 12 is illustrated by means of dashed line in Fig. 2. The transit device 10 is illustrated in a compressed position in Figs. 1-3. The partition 12 is illustrated schematically by a dashed line also in Fig. 3.

[0041] The transit device 10 is arranged for passing the one or more cables 11 and / or pipes through the partition 12. The partition 12 is, e.g. in the form of a wall, a floor, a roof or a ceiling. For example, the transit device 10 is arranged for passing cables 11, such as cables for electricity, communication, computers etc., or pipes for different gases or liquids, such as water, compressed air, hydraulic fluid, cooking gas or other types of liquids or gases, through the partition 12. Cables and / or pipes are led in an axial direction through the transit device 10. For example, the transit device 10 is arranged at a through opening in the partition 12 and is attached to the partition 12, e.g. by fastening means such as screws, a welding joint or similar. As illustrated in Figs. 2 and 3, the cables 11 comprise an outer jacket 1 la, an armor or shield 1 lb, an inner jacket 11c and a conducting wire l id. The outer and inner jackets I la, 11c are, e.g. of isolating material, such as plastic. The shield or armor 1 lb is of an electrically conducting material. The drawings are simplified and schematic and the cable 11 may comprise further layers in conventional manners.

[0042] The transit device 10 is arranged for receiving one or more compressible modules 13 for holding the cables 11 or pipes. The compressible modules in Figs. 1-3 are illustrated with a portion of the cable 11 or pipe therein and it is understood that the cable 11 or pipe continues. It is also understood that the compressible module 13 can be provided with a conventional blind plug B if no cable 11 or pipe is arranged therein, which is illustrated in Fig. 1. The compressible modules 13 may be arranged in different sizes and a plurality of different compressible modules 13 may be arranged in different configurations in the transit device 10. The transit device 10 of the embodiment illustrated in Figs. 1-3 comprises two compressible modules 13 of the same size but it is understood that any suitable number of compressible modules of the same or different sizes can be provided. The compressible modules 13 are compressible. For example, the compressible modules 13 are resilient and comprises two opposite and compressible bodies 14 in the form of compressible module halves, wherein the compressible body 14 is a compressible module half. Optionally, each compressible body 14 comprises a plurality of peelable sheets 15 placed in a semi-cylindrical groove in the compressible body 14. For example, each compressible body 14 has its own stack of semi-cylindrical peelable sheets 15. For example, each compressible body 14 has at least two stacks of semi-cylindrical peelable sheets 15, such as three of said stacks, which can be peeled individually and independently to adapt to the different diameters of the cable 11 when the outer jacket 1 la is removed at a portion of the cable to expose the cable screen or armor 1 lb at said portion. For example, the peelable sheets 15 as such are of conventional type and are provided to adapt the diameter of the groove to the outer diameter of the cable 11 or pipe. Optionally, a suitable number of peelable sheets 15 are removed to adapt the compressible module 13 to the diameter of the cable 11 or pipe, wherein the cable 11 or pipe is placed in the compressible body 14 and a compressible module 13 is formed by placing two module halves 14 on top of each other so that the grooves are facing each other and form an opening for the cable 11 or pipe. The compressible body 14 also comprises an outer surface. The compressible modules 13 are resilient, and are for example made of natural or synthetic rubber, such as an EPDM rubber, optionally with additional fillers, or TPE. As can be seen in Fig. 3 the compressible modules 13 comprise a safety grounding conductor 49 for contacting the shield or armor 1 lb of the cable 11. For example, each of the compressible bodies 14 of a compressible module 13 comprises a safety grounding conductor 49. Hence, a portion of the outer jacket I la is removed, so that the shield or armor 1 lb can be arranged in contact with the safety grounding conductor 49. For example, the safety grounding conductor 49 extends circumferentially around the compressible module 14, e.g. from inside the grove and around the compressible body 14 and into the groove from the opposite side thereof, and may also be arranged to contact the safety grounding conductor 49 of adjacent modules, if applicable.

[0043] The transit device 10 comprises a center axis A, a frame 16, a compression unit 17 and a compression screw 18 for operating the compression unit 17. The frame 16 comprises at least first, second, third and fourth walls 19-22 forming an opening for receiving the one or more compressible modules 13 and the compression unit 17. A center axis of the frame 16 coincides with the center axis of the transit device 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the first and third walls 19, 21 are arranged opposite each other, wherein the second and fourth walls 20, 22 are arranged opposite each other and perpendicular to the first and third walls 19, 21. For example, the first wall 19 is a top wall of the frame 16, wherein the second and fourth walls 20, 22 are lateral walls and the third wall is a bottom wall. The transit device 10 can be mounted in a standing position, wherein the first wall 19 extends in a horizontal plane, or a lying position, wherein the first wall 19 extends in a vertical plane. For example, the frame 16 is substantially rectangular, optionally with rounded comers. For example, the walls 19-22 are integrated with each other end to end. For example, the frame 16 is a molded or casted frame, i.e. formed as one integrated piece by molding or casting. The frame 16 is made of non-conductive material, such as plastic or composite materials, which gives a light transit device which is easy to handle and install and also cost-efficient. In the illustrated embodiment, the frame 16 comprises a flange 23 for attachment to the partition 12. For example, the flange 23 is an outer peripheral flange surrounding the opening of the frame 16. Optionally, the flange 23 is formed with holes for fastening by means of screws or similar to the partition 12. In the illustrated embodiment, the flange 23 is formed with a groove 24 for receiving a sealing strip (not illustrated) or similar for sealing against the partition 12.

[0044] The first wall 19 of the frame 16 is formed with a through aperture 25 for the compression screw 18, wherein the compression screw 18 extends through the first wall 19 for operating the compression unit 17, such as for displacing the compression unit 17 and / or compressing it inside the opening of the frame 16. The through aperture 25 is illustrated in Fig. 3. For example, the compression screw 18 has one end outside the frame 16 and the opposite end in the opening of the frame 16, so that the compression unit 17 can be operated from outside the frame 16, e.g. through a screw head. According to one embodiment, the compression screw 18 can be rotated freely in the through aperture 25. For example, the through aperture 25 (i.e. the frame 16 around the through aperture 25) is arranged without a thread and may, for example, be smooth.

[0045] The frame 16 further comprises a guiding surface 27 for guiding the compression unit 17. The guiding surface 27 is arranged between the second and fourth walls 20, 22 and extends perpendicular to the first wall 19. For example, the guiding surface 27 is formed as a plate portion having a plane extending perpendicular to the first wall 19 and perpendicular to the second and third walls 20, 21 to cover a portion of the opening of the frame 16, such as a front portion or an upper front portion of the opening. The guiding surface 27 is, for example, an integrated part of the frame 16. For example, the guiding surface 27 is molded or casted together with the rest of the frame 16. In the illustrated embodiment, the guiding surface 27 is connected to the first wall 19 and to the second and fourth walls 20, 22. The guiding surface 27 is arranged to engage the compression unit 17 and keep it in place in the opening of the frame 16. For example, the guiding surface 27 is arranged to engage a first side of the compression unit 17.

[0046] The compression unit 17 is arranged for compressing the compressible modules 13 in the opening of the frame 16. For example, the compression unit comprises a compressible block 28, such as a block of rubber, TPE or similar elastic material. In the illustrated embodiment, the compression unit 17 also comprises a plate 29 of more rigid material than the compressible block 28, such as metal, for cooperation with the compression screw 18. The compressible unit 17 is compressible in a longitudinal direction of the compression screw 18, i.e. an axial direction of the compression screw, wherein the compressible block 28 expands in the radial directions perpendicular to the longitudinal and axial direction of the compression screw 18. For example, the compression screw 18 engages a top surface of the compression unit 17, wherein an opposite bottom surface of the compression unit 17 engages the one or more modules 13, either directly or through a conventional stayplate S (illustrated in Fig. 12) or similar. For example, the compression unit 17 is displaceable in the longitudinal direction of the compression screw 18 in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the first wall 19. For example, opposite sides of the compression unit 17 engages the second and fourths walls 20, 22 of the frame 16. For example, the compressible block 28 is a substantially rectangular block.

[0047] For example, the compression screw 18 is fixed to the compression unit 17 in the axial direction of the compression screw 18, wherein the compression unit 17 is displaced together with the compression screw 18 in the longitudinal direction of the compression screw 18. In the illustrated embodiment, the compression screw 18 is attached to the compression unit 17 by means of an optional fastening device 30, wherein the compression screw 18 is rotatably attached to the compression unit 17 while the compression unit 17 is displaced inside the opening of the frame. The compression unit 17 is displaceable together with the screw in a direction along the screw and also along the second and fourth walls 20, 22, so that the compression unit can be moved towards and away from the first and second walls 19, 21. For example, the compression unit 17 is movable by means of the compression screw towards and away from the compressible modules 13. The attachment of the compression unit 17 to the compression screw 18 is favorable particularly for decompression of the compression unit 17 and the compressible modules 13 as the compression unit 17 will be pulled away from the compressible modules 13 during decompression.

[0048] According to one embodiment, the compression screw 18 is formed with a stem having a first stem portion and a second stem portion forming a shoulder for engaging the plate 29 of the compression unit 17. For example, the second stem portion has a smaller diameter than the first stem portion to form said shoulder. In the illustrated embodiment, the second stem portion is an end portion of the compression screw 18, which second stem portion is arranged through an opening of the plate 29 and is attached to the compression unit 17 through the fastening device 30. For example, the second stem portion is attached to the fastening device 30 by means of cooperating threads. For example, the second stem portion has a smooth outer surface, i.e. arranged without a thread. For example, the second stem portion is formed with a threaded opening in the axial direction of the compression screw 18 for receiving the fastening device 30, wherein the fastening device is arranged as a screw. Alternatively, the second stem portion has an external thread cooperating with an internal thread of the fastening device 30, wherein the fastening device is formed as a threaded sleeve or a nut. The compressible block 28 may be formed with an opening through which the fastening device 30 can be inserted for cooperation with the compression screw 18 and / or through which a portion of the compression screw 18 can extend for cooperation with the fastening device 30. The compression screw 18 is formed with a thread for operating the compression unit 17 towards and away from the compressible modules 13, so that the compression unit 17 can be compressed and pressed against the compressible modules 13 and also so that the compression unit 17 can be decompressed and / or moved in a direction away from the compressible modules 13. For example, the first stem portion is formed with a thread for moving the compression unit 17.

[0049] The transit device further comprises an angle element 33. The angle element 33 is arranged to guide the compression unit 17. For example, the angle element 33 is made of metal, such as steel. The angle element 33 is not integrated with the frame 16. The angle element 33 is, for example, manufactured separately from the frame 16 and may be in a different material than the frame 16. The angle element 33 and the frame 16 are assembled to form the transit device 10. For example, the transit device 10 can be disassembled and the angle element 33 can optionally be removed from the frame 16. The angle element 33 comprises a first plate portion 34 and a second plate portion 35 arranged perpendicular to the first plate portion 34. For example, the first plate portion 34 is arranged in the opening of the frame 16 and is arranged in parallel to the first wall 19 of the frame 16. Hence, a plane of the first plate portion 34 extends in parallel to the plane of the first wall 19. The first plate portion 34 comprises a through hole 36 for receiving the compression screw 18. The through hole 36 is illustrated in Fig. 3. The hole 36 is aligned with the through aperture 25 in the first wall 19 of the frame 16. The hole 36 is arranged with a thread cooperating with the compression screw 18 so as to allow the compression unit 17 to be compressed and uncompressed. Hence, the first plate portion 34 is formed with a thread around the hole 36. For example, the thread of the hole 36 cooperates with the thread of the compression screw 18 to displace the compression screw 18 in the longitudinal direction of the compression screw 18.

[0050] The second plate portion 35 engages a second side of the compression unit 17 opposite the first side thereof to guide the compression unit 17 when operated by the compression screw 18. The second plate portion 35 has a plane extending perpendicular to the plane of the first plate portion 34 and perpendicular to the planes of the second and fourth walls 20, 22. Hence, the transit device 10 comprises the guiding surface 27 covering a first portion of the opening of the frame 16, and the second plate portion 35 of the angle element covering a second portion of the opening opposite the guiding surface 27. The compression unit 17 is thus guided and held in place by the opposite second and fourth walls 20, 22 of the frame 16, together with the guiding surface 27 and the second plate portion 35 of the angle element 33. Hence, four lateral sides around the compression unit 17, which four sides connect a top surface and a bottom surface of the compression unit, are at least partially engaged and guided by the frame 16 and the angle element 33 during compression of the compression unit 17. For example, three lateral sides of the compression unit 17 are at least partially contacting the frame 16, wherein the remaining lateral side thereof is at least partially contacting the second plate portion of the angle element 33 during compression of the compression unit.

[0051] The transit device 10 is illustrated in a compressed position in Figs. 1-3, wherein the compression screw 18 has been screwed inward in a direction toward the compressible modules to displace the plate 29 of the compression unit 17 in the same direction and compress the compressible block 28 against the compressible modules 13. The thread of the compression screw 18 engages the thread in the hole 36 of the angle element 33. Optionally, the thread of the compression screw 18 also engages a thread of the through aperture in the first wall 19. Alternatively, the compression screw 18 is rotating freely in the through aperture in the first wall 19. Hence, the compression screw 18 is not dependent on the thread of the frame 16. Instead, the compression screw 18 cooperates with the thread of the angle element 33 to compress the compressible modules 13. As can be seen in for example Fig. 3, the compression unit 17 has been moved away from the first wall 19 and towards the compressible modules 13, wherein portions of the compressible block 28 engage the guiding surface 27 and the angle element 33.

[0052] With reference to figs. 4-6 the transit device 10 is illustrated in a neutral position before compression or in a decompressed position, wherein the compression screw 18 has been screwed out to decompress the compressible modules 13. In the illustrated embodiment, the compression unit 17 has been retracted from the compressible modules 13 by rotating the compression screw 18 in the opposite direction as for tightening thereof and in the opposite direction as for compression of the compressible modules 13 by the compression unit 17. Hence, the compressible modules 13 are compressed by tightening the compression screw 18 from the position as illustrated in Figs. 4-6 to the position as illustrated in Figs. 1-3. By tightening the compression screw 18, the compression unit 17 is compressed and / or moved towards the compressible modules 13. For example, tightening of the compression screw 18 displaces the compression screw 18 towards the compressible modules, wherein the compression screw 18 displaces the plate 29 of the compression unit 17 in the same direction, which in turn compresses the compressible block 28 against the compressible modules 13 or displaces the compressible block 28 in a direction against the compressible modules 13 so that the compressible modules 13 are compressed. From the compressed position, as illustrated in Figs. 1-3, the transit device 10 in the illustrated embodiment can be decompressed by loosening the compression screw 18, wherein the pressure on the compressible modules 13 is released. In the illustrated embodiment, the compression unit 17 is retractable from the compressible modules 13. The attachment of the compression unit 17 to the compression screw 18 is favorable particularly for decompression of the compression unit 17 and the compressible modules 13 as the compression unit 17 will be pulled away from the compressible modules during decompression. According to one embodiment, the compression screw 18 is attached to the compression unit 17 by means of the fastening device 30, such as the illustrated fastening screw.

[0053] In the retracted and decompressed position as illustrated in Figs. 4-6, the compression unit 17 is displaced towards the first wall 19. For example, the compression unit 17 is, in the retracted position, enclosed by the guiding surface 27, the second plate portion 35 of the angle element 33, a portion of the second wall 20 and a portion of the fourth wall 22. For example, the compression unit 17 is displaceable until the compression unit 17, such as the plate 29 thereof, contacts the first plate portion 34 of the angle element 33. In the neutral or decompressed position of the transit device 10, compressible modules 13 and cables 11 can be mounted in the opening of the frame 16. Then, the compression screw 18 can be tightened to compress the compression unit 17 against the compressible modules 13 as describe above and as illustrated in Figs. 1-3. As illustrated in Fig. 3 and in a more simplified manner in Fig. 6, the transit device 10 comprises a conductive element 38 for contacting the safety grounding conductor 49 of at least one of the compressible modules 13. The conductive element 38 is arranged for safety grounding of one or more of the cables 11 or pipes arranged in the transit device 10. Hence, the shield or armor 1 lb of the cable 11 or the pipe is connected to the safety grounding conductor 49 of the compressible module 14, wherein the safety grounding conductor 49 is connected to the conductive element 38. The conductive element 38 is connected to ground, e.g. through a grounding cable (not illustrated). The conductive element 38 extends at least partially around the through opening of the frame 16. For example, the conductive element 38 extends circumferentially around the through opening of the frame 16, optionally around the entire through opening. For example, the conductive element 38 extends continuously. The conductive element 38 extends along the interior surface of the walls 19-22 of the frame 16. For example, the conductor element 38 extends along at least three of said walls and optionally along all walls of the frame 16. Optionally, the conducting element 38 abuts said frame walls. Hence, the conductor element 38 comprises at least four interconnected walls forming a through opening. For example, the conductive element 38 is rectangular. For example, the conductive element 38 is formed in metal, such as aluminum, steel or other suitable materials for conducting high currents for safety grounding. Hence, also the dimensions of the conductive element 38, such as a thickness of the walls thereof, is configured to handle high currents for safety grounding. For example, the conductive element 38 is arranged for conducting at least 1000 amperes. For example, the conductive element 38 is a rigid structure, so that it can stand for itself. The conductive element 38 is, e.g. formed or casted in one integrated piece of the same material.

[0054] The frame 16 is formed with a recess 39 for receiving the conductive element 38. The recess 39 extends from a rear end of the frame 16 and in the axial direction towards a forward end of the frame 16. Hence, the recess 39 extends mainly in axially extending planes for receiving the walls of the conductor element 38. The conductive element 38 can be inserted into the recess 39 in the axial direction from the rear end of the frame 16. The recess 39 has a height in a radial direction perpendicular to said axially extending planes, wherein said height corresponds to the thickness of the walls of the conductor element 38 to form a level interior surface for contacting compressible modules 13. Hence, an interior surface of the frame 16 and conductor element 38 assembly is level. The recess 39 ends with an edge 40 between the rear and front ends of the frame 16, wherein the conductive element 38 can be inserted in the axial direction from the rear end and up to said edge 40.

[0055] With reference to Figs. 7-11 another embodiment of the transit device 10 is illustrated schematically. Fig. 9 illustrates the frame 16 and the conductor element 38. The transit device 10 differs from the transit device 10 as described above in that it comprises a plurality of through openings formed by intermediate walls 41 of the frame 16 and also corresponding intermediate walls 42 of the conductor element 38, wherein a compression unit 17 is arranged in each of the through openings. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the through openings is provided with the guiding surface 27 and the angle element 33. The intermediate walls 42 of the conductor element 38 are aligned with the intermediate walls 41 of the frame 16 in the axial direction. Each of the through openings is arranged for receiving one or more compressible modules 13.

[0056] The angle element 33 comprises means for preventing displacement in the plane of the second plate portion 35, i.e. in a plane perpendicular to the center axis A. For example, the second plate portion 35 comprises wings 37 cooperating with recesses 43 in the frame 16 to prevent displacement of the angle element 33. In the illustrated embodiment, the wings 37 extend in the plane of the second plate portion 35 and are received in corresponding recesses 43 of the conductive element 38. The wings 37 project in a radial plane and have a thickness in the axial direction. The wings 37 and corresponding recesses 43 prevent movement of the angle element 33 and ensures that the angle element 33 is kept in place, both during compression and decompression of the compressible modules 13.

[0057] The conductive element 38 comprises an optional grounding lug 44 for connecting the conductive element 38 to ground, such as by means of a grounding cable or similar. For example, the grounding lug 44 comprises a through hole for connection to the grounding cable or similar means for connecting the conductive element 38 to ground. The grounding lug 44 extends, e.g. in a radial plane. Optionally, the conductive element 38 is formed with fastening ears 45 having through holes for fastening of the conductive element 38 to the frame 16 by screws 50 and / or for fastening of the transit device 10 to the partition 12. Hence, the frame 16 is formed with corresponding holes 46 for receiving said screws 50. According to one embodiment, the transit device 10 further comprises a fastening frame 47 having holes 48 corresponding to the holes in the fastening ears 45 of the conductor element 38 and corresponding to the screw holes 46 of the frame 15, wherein the conductive element 38 can be fastened to the frame 16 and optionally also the partition 12 by means of the fastening frame 47 and the screws 50 or similar. Optionally, the conductive element 38 comprises fastening means 51, such as protrusions, for fastening to the frame 16 through screws (not illustrated) to be received in receiving parts 52 of the frame 16. For example, fastening means 51 are arranged on opposite walls of the conductive element 38 and receiving parts 52 are arranged on corresponding opposite walls of the frame 16. For example, the receiving parts 52 are formed for receiving self-tapping screws or comprise a threaded metal insert inserted into holes of the frame 16. For example, the holes 46 and / or the receiving parts 52 are arranged on the interior side of the frame 16. According to the illustrated embodiment, two opposite walls, such as the second and fourth walls, of the frame 16 comprise protrusions 53 projecting radially inward from the interior surface of said walls. It is however, understood that similar protrusions or ribs can project from the interior of the first and / or third walls of the frame 16. For example, the conductive element 38 abuts said protrusions 53.

[0058] In Figs. 7-11 the frame 16 and the conductor element 38 are illustrated with four through openings, illustrated with O1-O4 in Figs. 10 and 11. It is however understood that the frame 16 and the conductor element 38 can have any number of intermediate walls and thus any number of through openings.

[0059] With reference to Fig. 12 the connection between the cable screen or armor 1 lb with the conductive element 38 via the safety grounding conductor 49 of the compressible module 13 is illustrated schematically when a cable 11 has been arranged in a compressible module 13. It is understood that one module half, i.e. compressible body 14 with its safety grounding conductor 49 has been removed and that part of the frame 16, part of the conductive element 38, parts of optional stayplates S and adjacent compressible modules 13 have been removed for illustration purposes. The safety grounding conductor 49 is, e.g. configured to conduct at least 1000 amperes. For example, the safety grounding conductor comprises a flexible strip comprising expanded metal or one or more connected wires, such as a braided wire, a knitted wire, a woven wire, a wire cloth or a wire mesh.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A transit device (10) for leading a cable (11) or a pipe through a partition (12), wherein the transit device (10) comprises a frame (16), a center axis (A), at least one compression unit (17) and at least one compression screw (18) for operating said compression unit (17), wherein the frame (16) comprises interconnected walls (19-22, 41) forming at least one axially extending through opening, wherein the walls have an exterior surface and an opposite interior surface, wherein the interior surface is facing said opening, wherein the compression unit (17) is arranged in the opening of the frame (16) and is operable by means of the compression screw (18) to compress one or more compressible modules (13) arranged in the opening of the frame (16), characterised in that the frame (16) is formed in a non-conductive material, and the transit device (10) comprises a conductive element (38) extending along the interior surface of the frame walls (19-22, 41), wherein the conductive element (38) is arranged for contacting a safety grounding conductor (49) of at least one of the compressible modules (13).

2. The transit device of claim 1, wherein the conductive element (38) comprises a grounding lug (44) for connecting the conductive element (38) to ground.

3. The transit device of claim 1 or 2, wherein the conductive element (38) is connected to ground.

4. The transit device of any of the preceding claims, wherein the frame (16) is formed with a recess (39) for receiving the conductive element (38).

5. The transit device of claim 4, wherein the recess (39) extends from a rear end of the frame (16) and in the axial direction towards a forward end of the frame (16) and ends with an edge (40) between the rear and front ends of the frame (16), wherein theconductive element (38) can be inserted in the axial direction from the rear end and up to said edge (40).

6. The transit device of claim 4 or 5, wherein a height of the recess (39) corresponds to a thickness of the conductive element (38).

7. The transit device of any of the preceding claims, wherein the conductive element (38) comprises at least four interconnected walls extending along corresponding walls (19-22, 41) of the frame.

8. The transit device of any of the preceding claims, wherein the compression screw (18) extends through an aperture (25) in one of the frame walls (19).

9. The transit device of any of the preceding claims, wherein the frame (16) comprises a guiding surface (27) arranged in a plane perpendicular to the center axis (A), wherein the guiding surface (27) is formed in a single integrated piece in non-conductive material together with the walls (19-22, 41)of the frame (16) and engages a first side of the compression unit (17) to guide the compression unit (17) when operated by the compression screw (18).

10. The transit device according to claim 9, wherein the transit device (10) comprises an angle element (33) having a first plate portion (34) and a second plate portion (35) arranged perpendicular to the first plate portion, wherein the first plate portion is arranged in the opening of the frame (16) and comprises a through hole (36) for the compression screw (18), wherein the second plate portion (35) engages a second side of the compression unit (17) opposite the first side thereof to guide the compression unit (17) when operated by the compression screw (18).

11. The transit device according to claim 10, wherein the second plate portion (35) comprises wings (37) received in corresponding recesses (43) of the walls of theconductive element (38) to prevent movement of the angle element (33) in a plane of the second plate portion (35).

12. The transit device of any of the preceding claims, wherein the frame (16) comprises at least one intermediate wall (41) forming a plurality of through openings of the frame (16), wherein a compression unit (17) is arranged in each of said openings, and wherein the conductive element (38) is formed with one or more corresponding intermediate walls (42) axially aligned with the intermediate walls (41) of the frame (16).

13. The transit device of any of the preceding claims and claim 10, wherein the through hole (36) of the first plate portion (34) is formed with a thread cooperating with a thread of the compression screw (18).

14. The transit device of claim 13, wherein the angle element (33) is formed of metal.

15. The transit device according to any of the previous claims, comprising one or more compressible modules (13) having a through opening for receiving a cable (11) or pipe, wherein the one or more compressible modules (13) are arranged in the one or more openings of the frame (16).

16. Use of a transit device (10) according to any of the previous claims for leading a cable (11) or a pipe through a partition (12).

17. A transit system for leading a cable or a pipe through a partition, comprising a transit device (10) according to any of claims 1 to 16 and one or more compressible modules (13) arranged within the frame (16), wherein a compression unit (17) compresses said compressible modules (13), wherein a cable (11) or pipe is arranged in a through opening of at least one of said compressible modules (13), wherein a safety grounding conductor (49) of the compressible module (13) is arranged in contact with a cable screen or armor of the cable (11) or the pipe, wherein the safety groundingconductor (49) is connected to the conductive element (38) and wherein the conductive element (38) is connected to ground for safety grounding of the cable (11) or pipe.

Images