Page 197 - The ROV Manual - A User Guide for Remotely Operated Vehicles 2nd edition

186 CHAPTER 8 Cables and Connectors
Locking sleeves are used to prevent the mated pair from accidental disconnection. Locking sleeves are made from Delrin, stainless steel, or glass-filled nylon. Nylon 6/6 alone is hygroscopic and will swell with constant immersion in water, resulting in disengagement of the locking sleeve threads.
8.5.2 Advanced designs
8.5.2.1 Recent trends and future developments
Miniaturization
Smaller versions of many standard connectors and new designs for lower power electronic sys- tems have been recently introduced (Figure 8.32).
High-speed data connectors
Specialized connectors are available for Ethernet communications with data rates of up to 1 GB/s (Figure 8.33).
Smart connectors
Three unique approaches to smart connectors may be seen with the Schilling SeaNet Connector, MBARI PUCK, and Integral Data Converters.
Schilling Robotics SeaNet connector
Concentric circular contacts allow this connector (Figures 8.34 and 8.35) to be rotated to change orientation so the cable exits in the desired direction during final assembly. The design is not intended for a rotary application in the manner of a slip ring. Internal indicator lights provide visual feedback of power and data status. The PBOF design makes it usable at any depth.
FIGURE 8.32
Microconnector series take up less space.
(Courtesy MacArtney.)