Flexible Gaiter Sealing Element for Cable Water Ingress Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
In apparatus rooms, especially those housing outdoor radio base stations, vertical antenna cables act as water conductors during precipitation, leading to potential water ingress if sealings are inadequate, particularly when outlets are placed on the roof.
Innovation Solution
A sealing arrangement featuring a rigid tubular element with a flexible gaiter-like sealing element that securely fits around the cable, utilizing a conical connecting portion and internal ridges for enhanced grip, and can be tightened using a clamping ring for reliable sealing against water and moisture.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If the cable outlet is placed on the roof of the cabinet, then the cable length can be minimized, but water ingress risk increases due to vertical cable acting as water conductor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a flexible sealing element in the form of a gaiter that acts as a flexible shell around the cable. This gaiter can be crimped or clamped to create a water-tight seal, preventing water from traveling down the cable while allowing the cable to pass through the roof opening. The flexible nature of the gaiter allows it to conform to the cable surface and maintain sealing effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing element serves as an intermediary component between the cable and the wall opening. It mediates the interaction by providing a sealing interface that blocks water ingress while allowing the cable to pass through. The gaiter is crimped or clamped around the cable to create this intermediary sealing barrier.
2Reliability
If a rigid sealing structure is used, then sealing reliability improves, but adaptability to different cable positions and sizes decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing element is designed with dynamic characteristics, being flexible and capable of deformation. The gaiter can be crimped or clamped to different degrees and at different positions along the cable, allowing adaptation to various cable diameters and installation positions while maintaining reliable sealing. This dynamic adjustability resolves the contradiction between rigid sealing reliability and flexible adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing element's physical parameters (such as its diameter, length, and degree of crimping) can be changed to adapt to different cable sizes and positions. The gaiter can be selected in different sizes and crimped to different degrees to match the specific installation requirements, thereby maintaining sealing reliability across varying conditions.
3Ease of operation
If the sealing element is made flexible and adjustable, then ease of installation improves, but structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing element is segmented into distinct functional zones: a gaiter portion that seals around the cable, a clamping portion that secures the gaiter, and connection portions that interface with the wall opening. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function independently, simplifying the installation process while managing structural complexity through functional decomposition.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing element is designed to be self-installing to a large extent. The gaiter can be slipped over the cable, and the crimping or clamping mechanism secures it in place without requiring additional complex fastening systems. The design allows the sealing element to serve itself in creating the seal and securing its own position.
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 water and moisture ingress into the apparatus room or casing, ensuring a reliable seal regardless of the cable's position, whether on the roof, floor, or ceiling, while allowing for easy installation and adjustment.
Implementation Method 1
The sealing element conveniently consists of an elastic or flexible material. A silicone rubber can be mentioned as an appropriate material in this regard.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a flexible sealing element sealingly attached to a cable intended for connection to attachment means on e.g. the roof of a base station cabinet. When attaching the cable the front end of the sealing element is retracted to a position uncovering connecting means at the cable end. After attachment the front end is moved back to a position covering the connected cable end.