Ball-and-Socket Cable Joint With Quick Disconnect and Strain Relief
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connectors for cables, especially in pressurized housings, lack effective strain relief and are difficult to service in dynamic environments like underwater applications, where tidal, wind, or wave action complicates cable connections and makes servicing challenging.
Innovation Solution
A quick-disconnect ball and socket joint system with a substantially spherical strain relief node, an end cap, and a retaining element that allows for easy connection and disconnection while maintaining strain relief, suitable for underwater use and composed of corrosion-resistant materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a separate line with cable sock is used to take strain, then strain relief is achieved, but device complexity increases and ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the strain relief function and the connection function into a single integrated cable connector assembly. The cable connector with strain relief features is merged with the quick-disconnect mechanism, eliminating the need for separate strain relief lines and cable socks. This integration maintains effective strain relief while reducing overall system complexity and improving ease of operation.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If cables pass through an end cap for protection, then cable protection is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to difficulty in removal
Solution Approach 1:
The end cap is designed with dynamic quick-disconnect features that allow it to transition between a secured protective state and an easily removable service state. The quick-disconnect mechanism enables the end cap to be rapidly opened and closed, providing cable protection during operation while allowing extremely easy removal and servicing when needed, directly addressing the contradiction between protection and ease of operation.
3Reliability
If connectors are designed for secure connection, then reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to difficulty in disconnection
Solution Approach 1:
The quick-disconnect mechanism employs periodic action through a series of controlled steps: the connector engages through initial contact, then progresses through intermediate locking positions, and finally achieves full secure connection. For disconnection, a rapid actuating motion triggers a sequence of controlled releases that maintain security during normal operation but enable extremely easy and quick disconnection when needed, resolving the contradiction between connection security and ease of disconnection.
4Ease of operation
If strain relief is built into the connector, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The strain relief features are nested within the existing connector structure rather than being added as external components. The cable connector incorporates integrated strain relief elements that are contained within or form part of the connector housing, allowing strain relief functionality to be achieved while minimizing increases in overall device complexity and maintaining ease of operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A quick-disconnect ball and socket joint includes a substantially spherical strain relief node configured to be coupled to an object, such as a cable. The system further comprises an end cap configured to capture the substantially spherical strain relief node, the end cap having a diameter that permits the substantially spherical strain relief node to pass therethrough when the system is in an open position. The system still further comprises a retaining element configured to retain the substantially spherical strain relief node in the end cap. The retaining element is attached to the end cap when the system is in a closed position and the object is prevented from being removed from capture by the end cap. However, in the open position, the retaining element may be removed from capture by the end cap by passing the substantially spherical strain relief node through a diameter of the end cap.