Multi-Layer Cable Port Seal for Variable Cable Diameters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cable port seals in communication networks require manual measurement and modification of sealing foams to fit different cable diameters, leading to improper sealing and potential ingress of debris and water if measurements are incorrect.
Innovation Solution
A self-adjusting cable port seal with a multi-layer foam design that accommodates various cable diameters without requiring field measurements or modifications, using a single piece of foam that can be folded or stacked into a multi-layer form for installation, providing a cost-effective solution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional foam-based cable port seals are used, then sealing capability is provided, but manual measurement and modification are required in the field which increases installation complexity and risk of improper sealing
Solution Approach 1:
The foam cable port seal is divided into multiple layers with different cable diameter accommodations. Each layer can be independently selected and installed, eliminating the need for field measurements and modifications while providing precise sealing for different cable sizes.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing foam is pre-configured with multiple layers designed for different cable diameters during manufacturing. This preliminary preparation allows installers to simply select the appropriate layer without performing any field measurements, cutting, or modifications, thereby improving installation ease while maintaining sealing effectiveness.
2Adaptability or versatility
If pre-cuts or perforations are made in sealing foam for different cable diameters, then adaptability to different cables is improved, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple sealing layers with different cable diameter accommodations are nested within a single foam structure. This nested design allows the seal to adapt to various cable diameters while being manufactured as a single integrated component, simplifying the manufacturing process compared to creating separate seals for each cable size.
Solution Approach 2:
The foam structure utilizes parameter changes in density and compression characteristics across different layers to accommodate various cable diameters. This approach allows a single foam component to provide adaptability for different cable sizes without requiring complex pre-cuts or perforations, thereby improving ease of manufacture while maintaining versatility.
3Adaptability or versatility
If thick foam is used to accommodate large cable diameter variations, then adaptability is improved, but manufacturing cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The thick foam is segmented into multiple thinner layers, each optimized for specific cable diameter ranges. This segmentation maintains the adaptability to accommodate large cable diameter variations while simplifying the manufacturing process, as thinner layers are easier and more cost-effective to produce consistently than a single thick foam component.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of increasing foam thickness in one dimension to accommodate cable diameter variations, the solution transitions to a multi-layer structure where adaptability is achieved through stacking multiple thinner layers. This dimensional approach maintains versatility while reducing manufacturing complexity and cost associated with producing single thick foam components.
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
Ensures proper sealing of cable ports across different diameters, eliminating the need for manual adjustments and reducing costs compared to traditional foam-based solutions.
Implementation Method 1
The multilayer foam cable seal includes a 'self-adjusting' capability on large range of different cable OD
Data Source
AI summary
A cable port seal is provided including an upper and lower elements for cables to pass and be compressed therebetween to provide a environmental barrier. The upper or lower elements include a first sealing member having a first face, an opposing second face, and a first sealing edge with a first and second ends, the first sealing edge including first cable cutouts disposed proximate to each of the first and second ends of the first sealing member, a second sealing member having a third face, an opposing fourth face, and a second sealing edge with a first and second ends, the second sealing edge including at least one second cable cutout disposed proximate to each of the first end and the second end of the second sealing member, and at least one third cable cutout disposed between each of the at least one second cable cutouts.