Cable Sealing Assembly for Mixed-Diameter Terminal Cables
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current cable sealing mechanisms in communications equipment are dimension-specific, requiring multiple sealing elements for different cable diameters, leading to complexity and potential faulty installations, which can cause damage and signal loss in optical networks.
Innovation Solution
A versatile cable sealing device with a sealing element assembly featuring slits and crimp elements, allowing for secure sealing of multiple cables with varying diameters using a single assembly, and a lever mechanism to ensure proper engagement and sealing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If dimension-specific sealing mechanisms are used for different cable diameters, then each cable type can be sealed precisely, but the device complexity and number of sealing elements increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing element is designed with a universal structure that can accommodate multiple cable diameters (e.g., 10mm, 15mm, 20mm) through a single multi-functional component. The element includes multiple openings of different sizes and crimp elements that can be selectively engaged to seal different cable types, eliminating the need for multiple dedicated sealing mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing element is divided into multiple functional segments including separate openings for different cable sizes, independent crimp elements, and a lever mechanism with multiple engagement positions. This segmentation allows each part to perform a specific function while collectively providing universal sealing capability across different cable diameters.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple sealing mechanisms are used for different cable types, then each cable can be sealed appropriately, but the installation process becomes more arduous and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple sealing mechanisms that would traditionally be separate are merged into a single integrated sealing element. The element combines multiple openings, crimp elements, and sealing structures into one component that can seal different cable types, reducing the number of installation steps and improving productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing element incorporates a lever mechanism that can dynamically adjust between different sealing configurations. The lever can be positioned to engage different crimp elements corresponding to different cable diameters, allowing rapid switching between sealing modes without requiring multiple static mechanisms.
3Reliability
If dimension-specific sealing elements are used, then cable sealing can be achieved, but the risk of faulty installation and network damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing element is designed to guide the installation process automatically. The lever mechanism naturally guides the installer to engage the appropriate crimp element for the given cable diameter, and the structure provides visual and tactile feedback to confirm proper engagement, reducing the risk of faulty installation without requiring complex procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing element incorporates geometric parameters (opening sizes, crimp element positions) that are optimized for different cable diameters. By changing these geometric parameters within a single element design, the system maintains high reliability across different cable types while simplifying the installation process through a unified structure.
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 simplifies the sealing process, enhances the reliability of connections, and prevents signal loss by securely sealing cables of different diameters within communications equipment, reducing installation complexity and potential damage from axial torsion.
Implementation Method 1
a first crimp element with a first end disposed within the first opening, a second crimp element with a first end disposed within the second opening... the lever defines at least one lever body that when moved to the sealed position contacts at least one of the first crimp element or the second crimp element so as to cause at least one of the first end of the first crimp element or the first end of the second crimp element to move in a direction that is towards the slit so as to engage with the cable to thereby seal the cable within the slit
Data Source
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AI summary
Systems, assemblies, and methods for sealing a cable within a terminal are provided herein. A cable sealing device includes a sealing element assembly having a slit and two openings, the openings being on opposing sides of the slit. The cable sealing device also includes crimp elements disposed within the openings, such that when an attached lever is engaged, the crimp elements move towards the slit and seal one or more cables that are disposed within the slit.