Backshell Adaptor Seam Clamp for Cable Bundle Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical connector backshell adaptors face issues with cable bundle breakages due to differential stretching tolerances between the sheath and cables, and the introduction of additional parts in 'O' clamp adaptations leads to foreign object damage from loose components.
Innovation Solution
The rearward retention flange of the backshell adaptor is designed to function as both an annular clamp and a mechanical 'O' clamp, with a seam dividing it into movable and immovable jaw segments, and jack screw actuating means to compress the cable bundle, while the sheath acts as a foreign object receptacle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an 'O' clamp assembly with multiple separate parts is used to compress the cable bundle, then cable bundle protection from pulling forces is improved, but the risk of foreign object damage from loose parts increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate parts of the 'O' clamp assembly (clamping jaws, mounting arms, fasteners) into a single integrated backshell adaptor body. This merging eliminates loose parts that could cause foreign object damage while maintaining the cable compression function through an integrated seam structure that acts as the clamping mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The backshell adaptor body is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support, acts as the 'O' clamp mechanism through its seam, serves as the mounting structure, and functions as the cable compression device. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated parts for each function.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a cable sheath with high stretching tolerance is used, then the sheath can accommodate movement, but the cable bundle inside may break due to excessive stretching
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary compression to the cable bundle through the integrated 'O' clamp seam structure, creating pre-tension that counteracts subsequent stretching forces. This preliminary anti-action prevents the cable from breaking when the sheath stretches by having the compression mechanism actively resist the stretching force.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated seam structure acts as an intermediary between the sheath and the cable bundle, mediating the force transmission. When the sheath stretches, the seam structure translates this movement into controlled compression on the cable rather than allowing direct excessive stretching of the cable itself.
3Reliability
If multiple separate parts are used in the 'O' clamp assembly, then cable compression function is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the clamping jaws, mounting arms, fasteners, and support structure into a single integrated backshell adaptor body. The seam structure itself forms the clamping mechanism, eliminating the need for separate movable jaws and fasteners while maintaining the cable compression function.
Solution Approach 2:
The backshell adaptor body serves as both the structural housing and the active clamping mechanism. The seam structure provides both the mounting interface and the cable compression function, reducing the overall part count while maintaining functional complexity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This design effectively prevents cable bundle damage from pulling forces and reduces foreign object interference by directly translating forces to the nipple and containing loose parts within the sheath, enhancing the reliability and safety of the connector assembly.
Implementation Method 1
jack screw actuating means to compress the cable bundle
Implementation Method 2
such 'O' clamp modifications transmit pulling forces applied to the bundle and sheath directly to the nipple
Implementation Method 3
annular clamping means such as a constant force spring
Data Source
AI summary
A foreign object damage protecting electrical connector backshell adaptor including a nipple having a forward end, a rearward end, a hollow bore, and a wall surrounding the hollow bore; an adaptor mounting coupling nut fixedly attached to the nipple's forward end; a retention flange, the retention flange being fixedly attached to or formed wholly with the nipple's rearward end, the retention flange having a seam dividing the retention flange at least into a movable clamp jaw segment and an opposing clamp jaw segment; clamp actuating screws connected operatively to the retention flange for drawing the movable clamp jaw segment from a cable receiving position to a cable clamping position; a tubular sheath and receptacle extending rearwardly from and annularly about the retention flange; and an annular clamping band engaging the tubular sheath forwardly from the retention flange.