Optical Fiber Cable Sealing Device with Deformable Compression Element

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing sealing and locking devices for optical fiber cables are structurally complex, difficult to install and dismantle, and do not allow for precise positioning of stripped cable ends, making handling and routing of fibers within containers cumbersome and costly.

Innovation Solution

A container with a simplified sealing mechanism featuring a support frame with locking means, deformable elements, and compression elements that securely hold cables in place without requiring heat-shrinkable sheaths, ensuring axial locking and precise positioning of optical fibers.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional sealing and locking devices are used for optical fiber cables, then the cables can be sealed and locked, but the structural complexity increases and installation becomes difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesealing and locking capabilityVSAvoidstructural complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the sealing function and locking function into a single integrated device. The sealing element and locking mechanism are merged into one component that performs both functions simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate sealing devices and locking mechanisms, thus reducing structural complexity while maintaining both sealing and locking capabilities

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The sealing and locking device is designed as a multi-functional component that can seal cable openings and lock cables in place simultaneously. This universal device replaces multiple specialized devices, simplifying the overall structure while providing comprehensive protection and securing for optical fiber cables

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If traditional sealing and locking devices are used, then cables can be secured, but installation and dismantling become time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecable securing capabilityVSAvoidinstallation and dismantling time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The sealing and locking device is designed with separable components that can be easily assembled and disassembled. The sealing element and locking mechanism are segmented in a way that allows quick installation by simply inserting the cable through the device, which then automatically engages the locking mechanism, significantly reducing installation and dismantling time while maintaining secure cable fixation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Reliability

If traditional sealing devices are used, then cables can be sealed, but precise positioning of stripped cable ends is not achieved

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesealing capabilityVSAvoidpositioning precision of cable ends
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The sealing device incorporates a positioning structure with a localized feature (such as a stepped surface or dedicated positioning ledge) that provides precise positioning for the stripped cable ends. This local quality enhancement ensures that cable ends are positioned accurately at a specific location within the sealed opening, facilitating proper routing and connection while maintaining the overall sealing function

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

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 enables safe, simple, and cost-effective sealing and handling of optical fibers, preventing accidental displacement and damage, while allowing for easy installation and maintenance of cables within the container.

Implementation Method 1

a deformable element (20) arranged in the conduit longitudinal direction between a first compression element (19) and a second compression element (21), said deformable element being designed to seal the opening (4) in the wall (4b)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectDeformation: Deformation

Implementation Method 2

first compression element (19) and a second compression element (21)... mutually approach the first compression element (19) and the second compression element (21) so as to deform the deformable element (20) interposed therebetween

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCompression: Compression

Data Source

PatentEP2136118B1Device for sealing cables through containers for optical fibres and container comprising said device
Publication Date: 2015.07.01 OPTOTEC
  • EP2136118B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2136118B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2136118B1 patent drawingFigure 2a

AI summary

A device for sealing cables through containers for optical fibres comprises a support frame (1), a first compression element (19) mounted on the support frame (11), a second compression element (21) mounted on the support frame (11) and a deformable element (20) mounted on the support frame (11) between the first and second compression elements (19, 21). The device (1) is insertable in an inlet/outlet duct (4) of a container (2) for optical fibres and has at least one passage (22) for a cable (5), formed through the first and second compression elements (19, 21) and through the deformable element (20). Means for moving the first compression element (19) close to the second compression element (21) allows radial deformation of the deformable element (20) in such a manner as to obtain a sealing action of the deformable element (20) on an inner wall (4a) of the duct (4) and a sealing action of the deformable element (20) on the cable (5) located in the respective passage (22). Coupling means (18) placed at a distal end of the support frame (22) spaced apart from the first compression element (19) allows the device (1) to be secured to the container (2) in an integral manner.