Cable Gland Contact Element for Variable Cable Diameters
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cable glands with contact elements are limited to specific diameters, requiring multiple versions for different diameters and being costly and complex to adapt for electromagnetic compatibility, and struggle to handle varying diameters and current conduction effectively.
Innovation Solution
A cable gland with a contact element featuring multiple windings of different geometries that define two distinct diameters, allowing it to accommodate a range of diameters and provide reliable contact and current diversion, while reducing spring stiffness for easier assembly and variability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a contact element is designed for a specific diameter, then it provides reliable contact and current diversion, but it requires multiple versions for different diameters, increasing device complexity and cost
Solution Approach 1:
The contact element is designed with multiple windings of different geometries (first windings with first diameter, second windings with second diameter) that can accommodate different cable diameters. This multi-functional design allows a single contact element to serve multiple diameter ranges, eliminating the need for multiple specialized versions while maintaining reliable contact and current diversion for each diameter type.
2Reliability
If the spring element is made stiffer to maintain contact pressure, then contact reliability improves, but assembly difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The contact element utilizes the natural elasticity and dynamic deformation capabilities of the spring material. The multiple windings are designed to deform elastically during assembly and maintain contact pressure through their spring properties. This dynamic approach allows the contact element to be inserted easily while automatically maintaining reliable contact pressure without requiring excessive stiffness.
3Manufacturing precision
If different contact elements are used for different diameters, then optimal contact is achieved, but inventory complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The contact element is segmented into multiple functional windings (first windings for first diameter, second windings for second diameter). Each winding group is optimized for its specific diameter range, providing precise contact fit for different cable sizes. This segmentation within a single component allows the contact element to adapt to various diameters while maintaining manufacturing precision for each size category.
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
Enables a single contact element to fit various diameters, reduces the need for multiple versions, enhances electromagnetic compatibility, and maintains flexibility for both small and large diameters by adjusting windings for optimal performance.
Implementation Method 1
The contact element comprises several first windings and several second windings, which are geometrically different from the first windings... the first diameter d1 and the second diameter d2 are different
Implementation Method 2
The contact element must be designed in such a way that the contact element can withstand currents or fault currents induced in a shield without damage
Data Source
AI summary
A contact element for contacting at least one long molded part, in particular a cable, in the unassembled state includes a plurality of first windings and a plurality of second windings which are geometrically different from the first windings, and a through-opening for the passage of a long molded part.