Cam Activation Tool for Re-terminable Fiber Optic Connectors
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Field termination of re-terminable fiber stub connectors is challenging due to their small size and the difficulty in avoiding damage to the signal interface during crimping, which often results in irreversible connections and waste of connectors and fiber optic cables.
Innovation Solution
A cam tool that supports and actuates the internal cam mechanism of re-terminable fiber optic connectors through relative rotation, allowing for simplified and expeditious field termination without crimping, featuring a base with cradle members for ferrule holder and backbone support, and a cylindrical handle for constrained rotational movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If crimping is used to activate the connector, then the connection is secured, but the field fiber and stub fiber may be pulled apart or damaged, and the connection cannot be reversed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional crimping approach by using a cam mechanism that can be activated and deactivated. The cam, when rotated, applies compressive force to secure the fibers, and when rotated back, releases the fibers for removal or repositioning. This reversible mechanical action solves the contradiction between securing the connection and maintaining reversibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector employs a dynamic cam mechanism that transitions between activated and deactivated states. The cam's rotational movement dynamically adjusts the compressive force on the fibers, allowing the connection to be secured during activation and released during deactivation, thus providing both reliability and ease of operation.
2Reliability
If crimping is used to retain the field fiber, then the fiber is secured, but the connection becomes irreversible and requires cutoff if poor
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using irreversible crimping, the patent employs a cam mechanism that can be rotated to activate retention and rotated back to release it. This inversion of the conventional approach allows the field fiber to be securely retained during activation while maintaining the ability to reverse the process if the connection is poor.
3Reliability
If standard fiber optic connectors are used, then connection performance is achieved, but field installation is labor and expertise intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is designed with pre-assembled components including the cam mechanism, ferrule, and fiber retention structures already in place. This preliminary preparation allows field installers to simply activate the cam mechanism rather than performing complex assembly steps, significantly reducing installation complexity while maintaining connection performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam mechanism is designed to be self-activating through a simple rotational motion that automatically secures the fibers and activates the connection. This self-service design eliminates the need for specialized tools or expertise, making field installation straightforward while ensuring reliable connection performance.
4Adaptability or versatility
If reusable connectors are used, then re-termination is enabled, but the connectors are small and difficult to terminate in the field
Solution Approach 1:
The connector design incorporates an asymmetric cam mechanism with a lever arm that provides mechanical advantage. This asymmetric design allows the small connector body to be operated with a larger lever motion, making field termination easier while maintaining the re-termination capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam mechanism translates rotational motion in one dimension into linear compressive force in another dimension. This dimensional transformation allows the small connector to be activated through a larger rotational motion of the cam lever, improving ease of field termination while preserving re-termination capability.
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
Enables reliable and reversible termination of fiber optic cables, reducing the risk of damage and allowing for easy re-termination, thus improving the efficiency and effectiveness of field installations.
Implementation Method 1
A lever on the tool activates a connector cam mechanism to effectuate termination of the fiber
Data Source
AI summary
An activation tool used to terminate a pre-polished, no-crimp fiber optic connector. The tool holds and positions a suitable fiber optic connector, such as an ST-type Opti-Cam connector. A lever on the tool activates a connector cam mechanism to effectuate termination of the fiber. The tool includes a base that supports and locks axial and rotational movement of ferrule holder and backbone components of the connector while a rotatable cam activation tool handle engages with a cam of the connector to rotate the cam between a de-activated position and an activated or terminated position.