Separable Cable Lead-Through Frame for Flexible Grommet Assembly

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing cable bushing technologies require multiple frames or crosses to accommodate different grommets, leading to logistical and cost challenges during assembly, as they need to be manufactured according to specific grommet types, resulting in high production costs and effort.

Innovation Solution

A divisible cable bushing with adjustable separating elements that can be inserted into bores or recesses on the longitudinal strips, allowing for flexible arrangement and use of standardized grommets within a single frame, reducing the need for multiple frames and enabling efficient assembly with fewer parts.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple frames or crosses are manufactured to match different grommets, then different grommet types can be accommodated, but production costs and logistical effort increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to accommodate different grommet typesVSAvoidproduction cost and effort
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal frame design with standardized longitudinal strips that can accommodate multiple types of grommets through adjustable separating elements. Instead of creating specialized frames for each grommet type, a single frame structure serves multiple functions by allowing flexible positioning of separating elements to match different grommet configurations, thereby reducing production costs while maintaining versatility

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

Solution Approach 2:

The frame is divided into modular components including longitudinal strips and adjustable separating elements that can be independently positioned. This segmentation allows the same frame structure to be adapted to different grommet types by reconfiguring the separating elements, eliminating the need to manufacture entirely different frames for each application

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple different frames are carried for assembly, then different grommet requirements can be met, but logistical effort and complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to meet different grommet requirementsVSAvoidnumber of different frames required
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

A single universal frame design replaces the need for multiple specialized frames. The frame incorporates adjustable separating elements that can be configured to match various grommet types, allowing one frame structure to perform the functions previously requiring multiple different frame variants

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

Solution Approach 2:

The separating elements within the frame are designed to be adjustable and reconfigurable rather than fixed. This dynamic capability allows the frame to adapt to different grommet requirements during assembly by repositioning the separating elements, eliminating the need to carry multiple static frame types

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Manufacturing precision

If injection molding tools are used for each frame variant, then precise manufacturing is achieved, but tooling costs become very high

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprecision of frame manufacturingVSAvoidtooling cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a universal frame design that can be produced using a single injection molding tool. By standardizing the frame structure with adjustable separating elements, the need for multiple specialized molds is eliminated, significantly reducing tooling costs while maintaining manufacturing precision through consistent mold-based production

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

Solution Approach 2:

The frame is designed as a modular structure where the main body is injection molded once and then configured with adjustable separating elements. This segmentation allows precise manufacturing of the base frame through a single mold while the adjustable components provide the necessary variations without requiring additional expensive tooling

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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

This solution allows for easy and efficient assembly of cable bushings with different grommet types using a single frame, reducing logistical and production costs while ensuring secure strain relief and high sealing integrity.

Implementation Method 1

The grommets are made of elastic material. The frame is then closed with the cover. This applies pressure to the grommets, compressing them completely within the frame, thus creating a tight seal.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentEP3545595B1Cable lead-through having a separable frame
Publication Date: 2024.07.03 ICOTEK PROJEKT GMBH & CO KG
  • EP3545595B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3545595B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP3545595B1 patent drawingFigure 5~6

AI summary

The invention relates to a cable lead-through, comprising: a separable frame having at least two longitudinal strips and two side strips, which are positioned together in a plane perpendicular to the direction of travel of the lead-through cable; spacer elements positioned between the longitudinal strips, of which at least one forms an intermediate space between itself and a neighbouring spacer element or one of the side strips, which is designed for receiving at least one grommet, which in turn has at least one hole for leading through the cable. The invention is characterised by the following features: each of the longitudinal strips has a plurality of holes or recesses on at least the side thereof facing the respective other longitudinal side; in the region of at least one of the front-side ends, each spacer element corresponds to the holes or the recesses in the longitudinal strips, such that the spacer elements can be introduced into the holes or recesses transverse to the direction of travel of the lead-through cable.;