Cable Assembly Access Point ERL Insert Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Fiber optic ribbon cables present challenges in accessing and terminating optical fibers, particularly at network access points, due to issues with ribbon stack handling, translation, and rotation, which affect the reliability and performance of fiber-to-the-premises networks.
Innovation Solution
The solution involves a cable assembly with a flexible network access point and an ERL insert assembly that includes resilient plugs to inhibit optical ribbon stack movement and torque, using gel bonding and anti-torque alignment inserts to secure the ribbon stack to the core tube, and employing flexible coverings and tether connections for robust installation and long-term reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If ribbon cables are used to provide compact design and high fiber density, then fiber capacity and space efficiency are improved, but ribbon stack movement and rotation at network access points occur causing reliability issues
Solution Approach 1:
The cable is segmented into multiple functional zones: a first portion with the ribbon stack, a second portion with the network access point, and a third portion with the tether cable. This segmentation allows the ribbon stack to be isolated from stresses at the access point, preventing movement and rotation while maintaining high fiber density.
Solution Approach 2:
A transition section acts as an intermediary between the ribbon stack and the network access point. This section includes a buffer tube that receives the ribbon stack and provides a stable mounting structure, preventing the ribbon stack from being directly subjected to movement and rotation forces at the access point.
2Adaptability or versatility
If network access points are created along distribution cables for branching connections, then network versatility and ease of installation are improved, but ribbon stack translation and rotation at access points cause performance degradation
Solution Approach 1:
The distribution cable is divided into distinct functional sections with the network access point located in a second portion separate from the ribbon stack in the first portion. This spatial segmentation allows branching connections to be made without disturbing the ribbon stack's position and orientation.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention addresses the problem by transitioning from a two-dimensional ribbon stack layout to a three-dimensional buffered structure. The buffer tube provides vertical and radial support, preventing translation and rotation in multiple dimensions while allowing the network access point to function independently.
3Reliability
If resilient plugs are used to inhibit ribbon stack movement, then connection reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The resilient plugs are designed to automatically engage with the ribbon stack and buffer tube structure upon assembly. The plugs utilize elastic deformation to provide friction-based retention, eliminating the need for additional fastening mechanisms or complex assembly procedures while ensuring reliable prevention of ribbon stack movement.
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
This approach effectively addresses translational and rotational issues at network access points, ensuring reliable fiber optic connections and minimizing ribbon movement, thereby enhancing the stability and performance of fiber optic cable assemblies in various applications.
Implementation Method 1
at least one resilient plug disposed within the fiber optic cable for holding the ribbon stack to the fiber optic cable to inhibit optical ribbon stack movement or torque
Implementation Method 2
at least one resilient plug disposed within the fiber optic cable for holding the ribbon stack to the fiber optic cable to inhibit optical ribbon stack movement or torque
Implementation Method 3
using gel bonding and anti-torque alignment inserts to secure the ribbon stack to the core tube
Data Source
AI summary
A cable assembly comprising a fiber optic cable having an optical ribbon stack therein, at least one network access location for accessing the ribbon stack, and at least one ERL insert assembly, which can include for example at least one resilient plug for holding one or more optical ribbons of the fiber optic cable at, or near, the network access location to inhibit optical ribbon stack movement and torque, for example, translation and/or rotation at the network access point. Also disclosed is a method for inhibiting optical fiber movement or torque, translation and/or rotation at a predetermined position within a fiber optic cable.