Universal Bushing with Removable Elastomeric Insert
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cable bushings often fail to accommodate varying cable sizes, leading to either the cable not passing through the cavity or an improper seal, as the cavity size is not sufficient relative to the cable size.
Innovation Solution
A universal bushing system comprising a base member and removable bushing members made of elastomeric material, where the bushing members can be decoupled and recoupled to adjust to different cable sizes, ensuring a proper seal by compressing against the cable.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed-size cavity is used in the bushing, then the bushing structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the bushing cannot accommodate varying cable sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The bushing is divided into a base member with a first cavity and a removable bushing member with a second cavity. The bushing member can be removed and replaced with different sized bushing members to accommodate different cable sizes, transforming a single fixed-structure problem into a modular segmented solution.
Solution Approach 2:
The bushing transitions from a static fixed-size cavity to a dynamic configurable cavity system. The removable bushing member allows the cavity size to be adjusted dynamically based on the cable size being installed, enabling the bushing to adapt its internal dimensions without changing the overall bushing structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the cavity is made smaller to fit smaller cables, then the seal may be proper for small cables, but larger cables cannot pass through
Solution Approach 1:
The bushing cavity is segmented into an outer first cavity in the base member and an inner second cavity in the removable bushing member. This segmentation allows the inner cavity to be adjusted by replacing the bushing member, while the outer cavity provides consistent structural support and sealing surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The removable bushing member acts as an intermediary element between the base member and the cable. By replacing this intermediary component, different cable sizes can be accommodated while maintaining the sealing function through the elastomeric material's compression capability.
3Reliability
If the bushing is made of elastomeric material for sealing, then the seal is effective, but the bushing cannot be easily adjusted for different cable sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The elastomeric sealing function is segmented into the removable bushing member, which can be replaced without compromising the sealing integrity. Each bushing member is designed with elastomeric material to provide effective sealing for its specific cable size range.
Solution Approach 2:
The bushing member can be removed (discarded from the assembly) and replaced with a different sized bushing member when cable size changes are needed. The removed bushing member can be stored and reused for similar cable sizes, maintaining sealing reliability while enabling adaptability.
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 universal bushing system provides a flexible solution that allows for the use of multiple cable sizes by adjusting the cavity size through the addition or removal of bushing members, ensuring a liquid-tight seal is maintained across various cable diameters.
Implementation Method 1
The base member and the first bushing member can be made of an elastomeric material
Data Source
AI summary
A universal bushing is described herein. The universal bushing can include a base member and a first bushing member. The base member can include at least one outer portion and at least one inner wall that forms a first cavity, where the at least one inner wall has a perimeter that is substantially uniform along a first height of the at least one inner wall. The first bushing member can be removeably coupled to the base member and disposed within the first cavity, where the first bushing member includes at least one first wall having a first inner surface that forms a second cavity and a first outer surface, where the at least one first wall has a first inner perimeter that is substantially uniform along a second height of the at least one first wall, and where the first outer surface forms a first outer perimeter.