Fiber Optic Terminal Compression Sealing for Variable Cable Diameters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current securing mechanisms for fiber optic cables, such as cable glands and cable ties, require additional tools and skill for installation, while sealing foams are inadequate for a wide range of cable diameters, leading to inefficiencies and installation challenges.
Innovation Solution
A compression sealing mechanism with a rotatable compression releaser and compression ribs that compress sealing foam onto cables, creating a seal by transitioning between uncompressed and compressed positions, facilitated by a movable cover and base structure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If cable glands are used to secure cables, then cable stability is improved, but installation complexity and cost increase due to requiring skilled installers and additional tools
Solution Approach 1:
The compression sealing mechanism is designed to be self-adjusting, where the compression ribs automatically compress the sealing foam to the appropriate degree based on the cable diameter, eliminating the need for installers to measure and manually adjust the sealing element. The mechanism serves itself by using the cable's own diameter to determine the compression force applied.
Solution Approach 2:
The compression ribs act as an intermediary between the cover and the sealing foam, translating the closing action of the cover into controlled compression of the sealing foam. This intermediary mechanism simplifies the installation process by automating the compression adjustment that would otherwise require skilled manual intervention.
2Ease of manufacture
If cable ties are used to secure cables, then installation cost is reduced, but long-term reliability deteriorates due to problems developing over time
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing mechanism changes the physical state of the sealing foam from uncompressed to compressed, creating a permanent seal that maintains its sealing properties over time. The compression transforms the foam's density and structure, providing long-term reliability similar to cable glands but with simpler installation like cable ties.
3Ease of operation
If sealing foam is used for cables, then installation simplicity is improved, but adaptability deteriorates because foam is designed for a given and limited cable diameter
Solution Approach 1:
The compression sealing mechanism is designed to be dynamic rather than static. The compression ribs can move and adjust the sealing foam compression level based on the cable diameter, allowing the same mechanism to adapt to a wide range of cable sizes. The system transitions from a fixed compression state to a variable compression state that responds to different cable dimensions.
4Manufacturing precision
If precise cable diameter measurement is required for proper sealing, then sealing precision is improved, but installation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanism performs self-measurement and self-adjustment. The compression ribs automatically determine the appropriate compression force based on the cable diameter that inserts into the mechanism, eliminating the need for installers to measure the cable and manually adjust the sealing element. The system measures and adjusts itself without external intervention.
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
Provides a simple, tool-free installation process that securely seals various cable diameters, enhancing protection and stability without the need for precise measurement, thus improving installation efficiency and cable management.
Implementation Method 1
a compression sealing element positioned between the compression releaser and the first strain relief system... where the compression sealing element is compressed between the compression releaser and the first strain relief system
Data Source
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AI summary
In general, the present disclosure relates to a compression sealing mechanism by which sealing foam is compressed onto cables to create a seal for a terminal. The compression sealing mechanism includes a compression releaser that is moveable between a first position and a second position such that the sealing foam transitions between an uncompressed position to a compressed position, respectively, to effectuate the seal around the cables.