Silicone Cable Connector Cover with Latch and Grooves
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cable connector covers face challenges such as time-consuming installation and removal, inconsistent sealing due to temperature fluctuations, and loss of sealing effectiveness over time, especially in environments with wide temperature variations and exposure to pollutants.
Innovation Solution
A cover for cable connectors made of silicone rubber with a unitary elongated body and strategically designed regions for sealing, featuring grooves for moisture management and strain relief, along with an optional adaptor for enhanced sealing and adaptability to various sizes and shapes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If tape layers are used to cover and seal cable connectors, then protection from environmental degradation is improved, but installation time and removal time increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The cover is divided into a body portion and a separate closure element that can be independently manipulated. The closure element features a latch mechanism that engages with the body, allowing for quick opening and closing without requiring removal of the entire cover assembly from the connector.
Solution Approach 2:
The closure element is designed to be movable relative to the body, transitioning between an open position (allowing access to the connector) and a closed position (providing environmental protection). The latch mechanism enables dynamic switching between these states without permanent attachment.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If tape layers are used to seal cable connectors, then protection from environmental factors is improved, but sealing consistency deteriorates due to temperature fluctuations
Solution Approach 1:
The cover and closure element are formed from elastomeric material whose physical properties (flexibility, sealing pressure) change with temperature. This allows the seal to maintain effectiveness across a wide temperature range by automatically adjusting to thermal expansion and contraction of the connector and surrounding environment.
Solution Approach 2:
The use of elastomeric material combines the benefits of flexibility, temperature resistance, and sealing capability in a single material system. The elastomeric properties allow the cover to conform to the connector shape while maintaining seal integrity under varying environmental conditions.
3Productivity
If plastic clamshell covers are used to protect cable connectors, then installation and removal speed is improved, but sealing effectiveness deteriorates in cold temperatures
Solution Approach 1:
The elastomeric material's physical state changes with temperature, remaining flexible and sealable even in cold conditions where rigid plastic would become brittle. The material's durometer and elongation properties are selected to maintain sealing capability across the expected operating temperature range.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover and closure element are formed from flexible elastomeric material that can deform to conform to the connector shape and create a tight seal. The flexibility allows the material to accommodate minor dimensional variations and maintain contact pressure for effective sealing.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If tape is used to seal cable connectors, then initial sealing is achieved, but adherence strength deteriorates over time due to material contraction
Solution Approach 1:
The elastomeric material is selected for its dimensional stability and resistance to permanent deformation over time. The material's cross-linking density and composition are optimized to minimize creep and stress relaxation, maintaining sealing pressure and adherence strength throughout the service life of the connector.
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 quick installation and removal, maintains effective sealing across temperature fluctuations, and provides durable protection against environmental factors, ensuring consistent signal quality and extended service life.
Implementation Method 1
a cover formed from an elastomeric material and adapted to be stretched and deformed to envelop a cable and connector
Implementation Method 2
a series of grooves which are formed in the cover and adapted to collect and contain any moisture that may migrate through the cable jacket
Data Source
AI summary
A cover and a system of covers/boots for placement in sealed relation over a connector or pair of connectors that is or are adapted to terminate a cable or splice together a pair of cables, preferably cables that carry signals received by a receiving apparatus on a cell tower. The covers include a cable end that sealingly receives a cable therein, an elongated body that provides secure cover to a cable connector, and an end that abuts a bulkhead or sealingly engages with a second cover when used in a splicing application.