Universal Cable Port Sealing with Deformable Fingers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cable port entry devices have limitations in accommodating cables of different sizes, often requiring multiple sealing elements or tear-out sections, which increases costs and complexity, and fail to provide an effective seal for both small and large cables.
Innovation Solution
The development of universal cable port entry devices with compressible members, including foam materials, that adapt to various cable sizes through unique geometries and deformable fingers, ensuring proper positioning and sealing, regardless of the number or size of cables.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If round cutouts are provided in cable sealing devices, then cables can be received, but the devices have limited ability to accommodate cables of different sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by making the cutout shape variable through compression. The compressible member changes the geometric parameters of the cutout from a fixed round shape to a variable shape that adapts to different cable diameters. When compressed, the cutout deforms to match the cable size, enabling a single device to accommodate multiple cable sizes without increasing structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by introducing a compressible member that allows the cutout to dynamically change its shape and size. Instead of a static round cutout, the compression mechanism enables the cutout to transform into different configurations based on the cable being inserted, providing adaptability while maintaining a simple single-piece structure.
2Reliability
If multiple sealing elements or tear-out sections are used to accommodate different cable sizes, then cable positioning and sealing improve, but costs and installation complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple sealing elements into a single integrated compressible member. Instead of using separate sealing components or tear-out sections, the compression mechanism consolidates all sealing functions into one piece that adapts to different cable sizes, reducing the number of parts while maintaining or improving sealing effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The compressible member serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides sealing, cable positioning, and size adaptation all in one component. This universal element replaces what would traditionally require multiple specialized components, reducing device complexity while ensuring reliable sealing across different cable configurations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If round cutouts are made large enough for small cables, then small cables can be received, but large cables can also be accommodated, however small cables shift within the cutout preventing effective sealing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses parameter changes to dynamically adjust the cutout dimensions to match the cable size. When a small cable is inserted, the compressible member maintains a tighter fit by deforming the cutout boundaries, preventing cable shift. The geometric parameters of the cutout change based on compression, ensuring optimal sealing contact regardless of cable diameter.
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
These devices provide high sealing efficiency, reducing costs and installation complexity by accommodating a wide range of cable sizes, ensuring effective sealing and protection from water, moisture, and dust, and allowing enclosures to meet IP55 or IP65 standards.
Implementation Method 1
The first compressible member and the second compressible member are compressed together to cause deformation in the second compressible member
Implementation Method 2
The second compressible member comprises a foam material configured to deform elastically
Implementation Method 3
both of the compressible members may comprise a foam material
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 1C
AI summary
A system for sealing cable(s) is provided comprising a first compressible member defining a wall portion and a first groove having a first rounded portion and a first straight portion. A minimum depth of the first rounded portion is less than a depth of the first straight portion, and the depth of the first straight portion is less than a depth of the wall portion. The first compressible member is configured to receive a first cable of the cable(s) in the first groove. The system comprises a second compressible member comprising fingers attached together on one side of the second compressible member. Cuts are formed in the second compressible member, and a respective cut is positioned between adjacent fingers. At least one finger deforms as the second compressible member is compressed, and the fingers at least partially restrict movement of and form a seal around the first cable.