Anti-ballistic Feedthroughs with Non-linear Cable Paths
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing feedthrough technologies do not effectively mitigate the vulnerability of vehicles to ballistic threats and do not address the adverse effects of sharp cable turns in hostile environments, as they typically involve perpendicular exits and lack environmental sealing and anti-ballistic features.
Innovation Solution
The feedthroughs provide non-linear cable paths parallel to the vehicle hull surfaces, using a spiral guide and cover plate to prevent direct bullet entry and avoid sharp turns, integrating with the vehicle's hull for environmental sealing and shock absorption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a cable exits the opening perpendicular to the plane of the opening, then the cable path is simple and direct, but the vehicle hull becomes vulnerable to ballistic threats and the cable experiences sharp turns causing conductivity issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a curved guide structure with a radius of curvature that forces the cable to follow a non-linear path through the feedthrough. This curvature eliminates sharp ninety-degree turns that would degrade cable conductivity while simultaneously preventing direct ballistic penetration paths through the hull opening.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions the cable path from a simple perpendicular exit (one-dimensional) to a curved trajectory that exits parallel to the hull surface (utilizing multiple dimensions). This dimensional change allows the cable to maintain electrical integrity while the curved path blocks direct ballistic threats.
2Device complexity
If a straight opening is provided through the vehicle hull, then the cable passage is direct and simple, but direct ballistic entry paths are created
Solution Approach 1:
The feedthrough is divided into multiple functional segments: a base plate with opening, a curved guide structure, and a cover plate. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while collectively providing ballistic protection and environmental sealing without excessive overall complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The curved guide structure serves as an intermediary element between the external environment and the vehicle interior. It mediates the cable passage by providing a protected, sealed, and non-linear path that blocks direct ballistic threats while maintaining cable functionality.
3Reliability
If environmental sealing is added to protect against hostile environments, then protection against elements is improved, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functions into the feedthrough structure: ballistic protection, environmental sealing, and cable guidance. The curved guide structure simultaneously provides sealing surfaces for gaskets, blocks ballistic paths, and guides the cable along a protected non-linear trajectory, reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The feedthrough assembly is designed as a multi-functional component that provides ballistic protection, environmental sealing, cable guidance, and structural support all in one integrated structure, eliminating the need for separate components for each function.
Data Source
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AI summary
Feedthroughs for antenna or other cables are described. At least some versions of the feedthroughs may, but need not necessarily, be employed as part of passive armor systems for lightweight vehicles used by, for example, special operations forces of the United States military. The feedthroughs may provide non-linear cable paths in areas near openings of vehicle hulls and avoid creating direct pathways for bullets to enter the openings.