Cable Seal Systems With Rigid Guide Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connectors lack sufficient moisture resistance, leading to unwanted intrusion of water and potential corrosion, especially when cables move relative to the connector, compromising electrical connections and potentially causing damage.
Innovation Solution
A cable seal system comprising a housing with a recessed opening and an elastomeric seal element, paired with rigid guide elements and a cover, providing a leak-tight seal through surface features and axial fixation, ensuring stability and protection against moisture intrusion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a simple connector design is used, then manufacturing cost and device complexity are reduced, but moisture resistance and leak protection deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into distinct functional components: a housing, a separate seal member with elastomeric material, and rigid guide elements. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall simplicity in assembly and manufacturing.
Solution Approach 2:
A seal member acting as an intermediary element is introduced between the housing and the cable. This seal member includes an elastomeric seal element that directly contacts the cable and provides the leak-tight barrier, while rigid guide elements guide the cable into proper position. This intermediary structure enables moisture resistance without complicating the overall connector design.
2Adaptability or versatility
If cable movement is allowed, then adaptability and ease of operation are improved, but seal effectiveness and leak protection deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The seal member incorporates an elastomeric seal element that functions as a flexible component. This elastomeric material can deform and conform to cable movements while maintaining the seal, allowing the connector to accommodate cable adaptability without compromising leak protection. The flexible nature of the elastomeric seal enables it to follow cable motion while preserving the barrier against moisture intrusion.
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 effectively prevents moisture intrusion and maintains a stable electrical connection even when cables move, reducing the risk of corrosion and electrical failures.
Implementation Method 1
A seal member is disposed within the recessed opening and comprises an elastomeric seal element having an inside diameter and an outside diameter. The seal element inside diameter extends around an outside surface of a cable and the seal element outside diameter extends around an inside surface of the recessed opening.
Data Source
AI summary
Cable seal systems used with connectors comprise a housing having an inside passage for placement of a cable therein, wherein the passage includes a recessed opening extending axially a distance from a housing open end. A seal member is disposed within the recessed opening and comprises an elastomeric seal element having an inside diameter extending around a cable outside surface and an outside diameter extending around an inside surface of the recessed opening. The inside and outside diameters may have a surface feature to provide a leak-tight seal the respective cable and recessed opening. The seal member includes rigid guide elements that are connected with opposed axial surfaces of the seal element. A cover is connected to the housing open axially fixing placement of the member between the cover and housing, wherein the cover includes an opening to accommodate passage of the cable into the housing.