Fiber Optic Cable Sealing Device with Deformable Annular Element
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for connecting protective tubes of optical fiber cables require significant user effort and lack clear feedback for proper insertion, with sealing elements that are difficult to deform and not reusable.
Innovation Solution
A connection device with a deformable annular sealing element that transitions from a free passage state to a sealed state under axial compression, facilitated by a tubular body with an annular step and a relief for easy penetration and disconnection, made from transparent material for visual inspection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the sealing element is forced into a restriction of the channel to create a seal, then the sealing effect is improved, but the force required for insertion increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing element is designed to be deformable and transition dynamically between two states: a first state with a larger cross-sectional area for easy insertion, and a second state with a smaller cross-sectional area for creating the seal. The element deforms under axial compression when the tube is inserted, transitioning from state 1 to state 2, which reduces the insertion force while maintaining sealing reliability.
2Reliability
If the sealing element is deformed to create a seal, then the sealing effect is improved, but the reusability of the connection device is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing element is designed with elastic properties that allow it to deform reversibly. After the tube is inserted and the sealing element transitions to its second state, the element can return to its first state when the tube is removed, enabling the connection device to be reused multiple times while maintaining consistent sealing performance.
3Reliability
If the sealing element is made difficult to deform, then the sealing reliability is improved, but the ease of operation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing element exhibits different mechanical properties at different stages of insertion. During insertion, the element is in its first state with a larger cross-sectional area that facilitates easy passage. Once the tube is inserted and axial compression is applied, the element transitions to its second state with a smaller cross-sectional area that provides reliable sealing, all while requiring minimal user effort.
4Ease of operation
If the sealing element is designed for easy deformation, then the ease of operation is improved, but the sealing reliability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing element is designed with specific geometric and material properties that enable it to deform easily under controlled axial compression while maintaining sealing reliability. The element transitions from a first state with a larger cross-sectional area to a second state with a smaller area, ensuring both easy insertion and reliable sealing through its dynamic deformation capability.
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
Simplifies the insertion process, reduces the force required for sealing element deformation, and allows for reversible connection and disconnection, enhancing user perception and operational security.
Implementation Method 1
an annular sealing element (10) which is deformable from a first state in which the sealing element delimits a free passage section of the cable to a second state in which the sealing element delimits a section smaller than a section of the cable
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~7
Figure 8~10
AI summary
The invention relates to a device (1) for connecting protective tubes (101, 102) of a fiber-optic cable (103), including a tubular body (2) defining a channel (3) having a first housing (4.1) and a second housing (4.2) each of which are arranged so as to receive one of the tubes and which are provided with means (5) for sealingly holding said tube, and an annular recess (9) extending between the housings in order to form an abutment when the tubes are driven into the housings, an annular sealing element (10) being arranged in the first housing in the vicinity of a side of the recess and arranged such that, as a result of axial compression exerted by the tube, same is brought from a first state, in which the sealing element defines a section for free passage of the cable, to a second state, in which the sealing element defines a section smaller than a section of the cable. The invention likewise relates to a section of an optical transmission circuit comprising such a connection device.