Tamper-Proof Cable Gland with Irreversible Latching Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cable fixation technologies lack tamper-proof security, as they can be opened and closed multiple times, and encapsulation methods are complex, costly, and often result in non-functional outcomes.
Innovation Solution
A cable gland design where the pressure element irreversibly snaps onto the cable outlet connector using latching elements, with a non-rotatable locking ring that breaks if attempted to be unscrewed, ensuring secure sealing and detectable manipulation, and allowing for easy replacement of the locking ring for resealing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a threaded connection is used to allow the cable fixation to be opened and closed multiple times, then the ease of operation is improved, but the security against manipulation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The threaded connection is segmented into two functional parts: a reusable pressure element with thread and a fixed cable outlet connector with latching elements. This allows the pressure element to be removed and reinstalled while maintaining the permanent latched connection of the cable outlet connector, thus preserving both ease of operation and security against manipulation.
Solution Approach 2:
Latching elements act as an intermediary mechanism between the pressure element and the cable outlet connector. These latching elements (locking teeth or cam mechanisms) provide the security function by preventing unauthorized opening, while the threaded pressure element maintains ease of operation for authorized users. The latching elements mediate between these two conflicting requirements.
2Reliability
If encapsulation is used to provide secure sealing, then the security against manipulation is improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing function is extracted from the complex encapsulation process and assigned to a dedicated sealing element within the modular cable gland assembly. This sealing element can be independently manufactured and replaced without requiring complex injection molding or encapsulation processes, thus reducing device complexity while maintaining security against manipulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing element is designed as a replaceable, relatively simple component that can be easily manufactured and replaced if compromised. Instead of requiring complex encapsulation that is difficult to control and expensive, the sealing function is provided by a simple elastomeric or plastic sealing element that can be replaced without replacing the entire cable gland assembly.
3Reliability
If encapsulation is used to provide secure sealing, then the security against manipulation is improved, but the manufacturing cost deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The cable gland is segmented into independently manufacturable components: a pressure element, a cable outlet connector, and a sealing element. Each component can be manufactured using standard, cost-effective processes without requiring expensive injection molding equipment or complex encapsulation processes, thus reducing manufacturing cost while maintaining security.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing element is designed as a simple, inexpensive component that can be easily manufactured and replaced. Instead of using expensive encapsulation processes that are difficult to control and require very expensive injection molding devices, the sealing function is provided by a simple elastomeric or plastic element that can be manufactured cost-effectively and replaced if needed.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to a cable fixing means (1) for mechanically fastening a cable (10) to a cable outlet, comprising a cable outlet connection piece (2), a sealing element (3) and a pressure element (4), wherein the pressure element (4) can be screwed onto the cable outlet connection piece (2) by means of threads (2.1, 3.1), and in this way squeezes the sealing element (3) between the cable outlet connection piece (2) and the pressure element (4). Loosening of the threads (2.1, 3.1) which are screwed to one another is prevented by a latching means (4.2) on the pressure element (4) and a latching means (2.2), which interacts with said latching means (4.2), of the cable outlet connection piece (2).