Cable Connector Assembly With Elastic Clamping and Watertight Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current cable connector splice kits for refrigeration containers are complex, costly, and lack reliability and water-tightness, failing to provide durable electrical connections for cables with large outer diameters due to numerous components and inadequate sealing.
Innovation Solution
A cable connector assembly with a housing member and clamping members that elastically deform to secure cables, featuring a simplified design with integrated engaging portions and fastening members, and optional sealing elements to ensure a secure and watertight connection, reducing the number of components and manufacturing complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If current splice kits are used for connecting cables with large ODs, then cable connection capability is provided, but device complexity increases due to large number of sub-components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple sub-components into a unified connector assembly where the housing member, clamping members, and fastening members work as an integrated system. The housing member incorporates engaging portions that directly interface with clamping members, eliminating the need for separate mounting brackets or additional fastening mechanisms found in conventional splice kits.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector assembly is designed to handle cables with varying outer diameters through adjustable clamping members that can accommodate different cable sizes. The fastening members can be rotated to provide different tightening forces, making the same connector suitable for various cable types without requiring multiple specialized components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If current splice kits with large number of components are used, then cable connection is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases substantially
Solution Approach 1:
By combining multiple functions into fewer components, the patent reduces the total part count and associated manufacturing costs. The housing member integrates structural support, cable guidance, and fastening interfaces, while clamping members combine cable securing and sealing functions, eliminating the need for separate grommets or protective sleeves.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent eliminates redundant components that do not add functional value, such as excessive fastening elements or overlapping structural members. Each remaining component serves a specific purpose, reducing material costs and assembly complexity while maintaining connection reliability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If current splice kits are used, then cable connection is provided, but overall length of connector becomes substantially larger
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping members are positioned within the housing member's engaging portions, and fastening members rotate within the same space, creating a compact nested arrangement. This eliminates the need for linear extension of components along the cable axis, significantly reducing the overall connector length compared to conventional splice kits.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening mechanism transitions from linear extension to rotational motion, allowing the fastening members to achieve full clamping force within a compact radial space rather than requiring extended axial length. This dimensional change enables compact connector design while maintaining effective cable securing.
4Adaptability or versatility
If current splice kits are used, then cable connection is achieved, but electrical connection reliability is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping members are designed with elastic deformation capability, allowing them to conform to the cable surface and provide uniform contact pressure. This flexible clamping action ensures secure mechanical attachment and stable electrical contact, preventing connection failures due to movement or vibration.
Solution Approach 2:
The engaging portions of the housing member and the clamping surfaces of the clamping members feature curved geometries that distribute contact forces evenly across the cable surface. This curved contact interface prevents stress concentration and ensures reliable electrical connection under varying mechanical loads.
5Adaptability or versatility
If current splice kits are used, then cable connection is provided, but water-tight provisions are insufficient making electrical connection prone to moisture
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping members act as flexible sealing elements that conform to the cable surface and create a water-tight barrier. When the fastening members are tightened, the elastic clamping members deform to fill any gaps between the rigid housing and the cable, preventing moisture ingress without requiring separate grommets or sealing compounds.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines mechanical clamping and sealing functions into a single integrated component system. The same clamping members that secure the cable mechanically also provide the water-tight seal, eliminating the need for separate sealing components and ensuring reliable protection against moisture and contaminants.
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
The solution provides a compact, cost-effective, and durable cable connector assembly that ensures reliable electrical connections and improved sealing for cables with varying diameters, reducing manufacturing costs and weight while enhancing durability and water-tightness.
Implementation Method 1
The first clamping member is adapted to elastically deform to clamp the first cable. The second clamping member is adapted to elastically deform to clamp the second cable.
Implementation Method 2
a sealing ring adapted to be accommodated in a circular groove formed on an outer surface of the mating portion
Data Source
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AI summary
A cable connector assembly (100) is disclosed. The cable connector assembly (100) includes a housing member (102) having a first end (110) and a second end (112) defining a passage (114) therebetween. The housing member (102) includes a first engaging portion (116) and a second engaging portion (118) coaxially extending from the first end (110) and the second end (112), respectively. The housing member (102) is adapted to accommodate at least one terminal block (108) to electrically connect a first cable and a second cable. Further, the cable connector assembly (100) includes a first clamping member (104-1) adapted to be partially inserted in the first engaging portion (116) of the housing member (102) and to coaxially align with the passage (114) to accommodate insertion of the first cable therein. The first clamping member (104-1) is adapted to elastically deform to clamp the first cable.