Telescoping Sealing Assembly for Multi-Position Connector Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Enclosure assemblies for mounting connectors at varying depth positions face challenges in providing effective strain relief and sealing for long, thin optical fibers, which are prone to damage due to environmental factors and dimensional variations among different connectors and enclosures.
Innovation Solution
A kit comprising a sealing sub-assembly with an annular sealing element and washer, supported by a housing sub-assembly with a flange and an outer shell, allowing the connector to be adjusted to multiple retaining positions along the longitudinal direction, and featuring a telescoping sub-assembly with a retaining section and spring retainer for secure locking and sealing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed-position connector mounting is used, then the structural simplicity is maintained, but the adaptability to different connectors and enclosures is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The connector mounting structure transitions from a fixed position to a telescoping mechanism that can dynamically adjust its position along the longitudinal direction, enabling the connector to be retained at multiple different positions while maintaining structural integration
Solution Approach 2:
The enclosure assembly is designed with a universal mounting structure that can accommodate different types of connectors and enclosures through the telescoping mechanism, allowing a single design to serve multiple applications and configurations
2Adaptability or versatility
If the connector position is made adjustable to multiple retaining positions, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The telescoping sub-assembly is nested within the housing sub-assembly, with the telescoping section containing retaining sections that can lock at multiple positions, creating a compact multi-functional structure without excessive external complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The housing is divided into distinct sub-assemblies (housing sub-assembly and telescoping sub-assembly) with the telescoping section further segmented into retaining sections, allowing independent positioning and retention at multiple discrete locations
3Adaptability or versatility
If a telescoping sub-assembly with multiple retaining positions is implemented, then the adaptability to varying depth positions is improved, but the sealing difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
Sealing elements are strategically placed at specific locations within the telescoping sub-assembly, with each sealing element tailored to its local position and function, ensuring effective sealing at each retaining position without requiring complex sealing throughout the entire structure
Solution Approach 2:
Sealing elements act as intermediaries between the telescoping sub-assembly and the housing sub-assembly, creating effective seals at the interfaces and retaining positions while allowing the telescoping mechanism to move and lock at multiple positions
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 provides a rugged, safe, and easily adjustable enclosure assembly that can accommodate different types of connectors and enclosures, offering reliable strain relief and sealing across various positions, ensuring secure retention and tactile feedback.
Implementation Method 1
The spring retainer may be formed as a compression spring
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a sealing sub-assembly (122) for an enclosure assembly (100, 100') for mounting at various depth positions and for receiving at least one connector (201) terminating a data and/or power transmission line (301), the sealing sub-assembly (122) comprising at least one annular sealing element (114) and at least one washer (113).