Cable Overblowing Connector for Legacy Network Expansion
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The legacy external telecommunication network has exposed and vulnerable fibre units due to past and current bad practices, necessitating a solution to maintain network integrity and allow for additional capacity expansion through pneumatic overblowing without damaging existing cables.
Innovation Solution
A connector assembly that allows for the secure addition of new fibre units to the existing network by sealing and guiding new fibre ducts into legacy ducts, ensuring the integrity of the network and facilitating efficient overblowing without damaging the existing fibre units.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If pneumatic overblowing technique is employed to add micro-cables to the legacy network, then network capacity is expanded and time/money savings are achieved, but the integrity of the existing network may be compromised and exposed fibre units remain vulnerable
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly acts as an intermediary device between the existing network infrastructure and the new micro-cables being installed. It provides a protected interface that allows pneumatic overblowing to occur while maintaining network integrity through its sealed construction and proper integration with existing ducts
Solution Approach 2:
The connector assembly is pre-installed and configured before the pneumatic overblowing process begins. This preliminary setup ensures that the network integrity is maintained from the outset, with the connector ready to receive and protect the new micro-cables as they are blown through the existing infrastructure
2Ease of operation
If fibre units are left exposed to facilitate installation, then ease of installation is improved, but vulnerability and damage risk to fibre units increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly serves as a protective intermediary that shields exposed fibre units from environmental damage and mechanical stress. It provides a controlled environment for fibre installation while maintaining accessibility for installation activities
Solution Approach 2:
The connector assembly is installed beforehand to provide protective cushioning for fibre units before they are exposed to harsh environmental conditions. This pre-installation protection prevents damage from moisture, temperature extremes, and physical stress during and after installation
Data Source
AI summary
A connector assembly comprising: a first end and a second end; a first inlet for receiving a protective duct of an enhanced performance fibre unit; a second inlet for receiving a protective duct of an enhanced performance fibre unit; an outlet for receiving a protective duct of an enhanced performance fibre unit; a first internal channel between the first inlet and the outlet for receiving a length of enhanced performance fibre unit stripped of its protective duct; and a second internal channel for receiving a length of enhanced performance fibre unit stripped of its protective duct between the second inlet and a section of the first internal channel proximate the outlet.