Torsion Resistant Cable Gland with Anti-Torsion Element
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cable glands for optical network closures offer limited resistance to torsional forces, which can damage optical fibers, and may compromise the seal when subjected to torsional stress, particularly in anti-clockwise directions.
Innovation Solution
A torsion-resistant cable gland with a central body and a detachable anti-torsion element, featuring flexible fingers and a lockable band, that securely attaches to the cable to prevent rotation and enhance sealing, allowing for interchangeable cable securing assemblies to accommodate various cable types.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a conventional cable gland is used, then the cable can be secured to the optical network closure, but the resistance to torsional forces is limited and can damage optical fibers
Solution Approach 1:
The cable gland is divided into a central body and a separate anti-torsion element that can be attached independently. This segmentation allows the anti-torsion element to specifically address torsional forces without compromising the overall cable securing function, thereby improving torsional resistance while maintaining optical fiber protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The anti-torsion element incorporates flexible fingers that can dynamically adapt to the cable and apply variable resistance to torsional forces. These flexible fingers deform elastically under torsional stress, providing progressive resistance that protects optical fibers while allowing normal cable movement.
2Strength
If a clamping nut with biting clamps is used, then the cable can be securely gripped, but anti-clockwise torsional force can unscrew the nut and reduce sealing effectiveness
Solution Approach 1:
The gripping function and sealing function are separated into different components: the clamping nut with biting clamps provides cable grip, while the separate anti-torsion element with flexible fingers provides torsional resistance and maintains seal effectiveness. This prevents unscrewing issues while maintaining both grip and sealing.
Solution Approach 2:
The anti-torsion element acts as an intermediary between the cable and the clamping nut, absorbing torsional forces before they can affect the nut-cable connection. This mediator prevents the transmission of unscrewing forces to the clamping nut, maintaining both grip strength and seal effectiveness.
3Adaptability or versatility
If different cable glands are used for different cable types, then each cable type can be optimally secured, but installation time increases and molding costs rise
Solution Approach 1:
The central body of the cable gland is designed as a universal component that can accommodate different cable types and sizes. The interchangeable anti-torsion elements provide adaptability to specific cable characteristics, allowing a single central body design to serve multiple cable types while maintaining optimal securing performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible fingers of the anti-torsion element dynamically adapt to different cable diameters and surface characteristics, providing effective cable engagement without requiring multiple specialized gland designs. This dynamic adaptation enables universal compatibility while maintaining installation efficiency.
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 enhanced torsional resistance and secure sealing for optical cables, reducing installation time and molding costs by being adaptable to different cable sizes and types, while maintaining effective protection against torsional stress.
Implementation Method 1
flexible fingers at its opposite end, said flexible fingers being adapted to be squeezed together against the cable surface for securing said torsion resistant cable gland on said optical cable
Implementation Method 2
cable anti torsion element attachable to the second end of the central body and cooperating with the clamping nut so that when the clamping nut is screwed on the second end of the central body, the cable anti torsion element substantially prevents the cable from rotating with respect to the central body
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The present invention relates to a torsion resistant cable gland (100) for reducing torsion of an optical cable (20) partially insertable in a base (50) of an optical joint closure. The cable gland comprises a central body (120) longitudinally extended along a longitudinal direction (X-X) between a first end (121) and a second end (122) and configured to receive the optical cable passing through said ends, wherein when the central body is partially inserted in the optical joint closure, the first end is positioned inside the inner volume of the optical joint closure and the second end is positioned outside the optical joint closure for receiving a clamping nut (110). The cable gland also comprises a cable anti torsion element (450) attached to the second end of the central body and cooperating with the clamping nut so that when the clamping nut is screwed on the second end, the cable anti torsion element prevents the cable from rotating with respect to the central body.