Coaxial Cable Fibre Conversion by Dielectric Softening
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Solution Overview
Problem
The transition from coaxial cables to glass-fibre cables in telecommunication networks is labor-intensive, time-consuming, and costly due to the need for excavation and permit processes.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that convert coaxial cables to glass-fibre cables by heating and deforming the dielectric material within the cable, allowing for the introduction of glass fibres and electrical conductors with minimal excavation and reduced costs, using elongate members for heating and manipulating the dielectric and core.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If coaxial cables are replaced with glass-fibre cables through traditional excavation methods, then network fiberization is achieved, but the process becomes labor-intensive, time-consuming, and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The invention segments the conversion process into distinct functional zones within the cable structure. The dielectric is divided into a softened section (where glass fibers are introduced) and a rigid section (maintaining structural integrity). This segmentation allows simultaneous presence of coaxial and fiber optic functionalities within the same cable infrastructure, enabling rapid conversion without complete replacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention nests glass fibers within the existing coaxial cable structure. The glass fibers are introduced into the cable through the softened dielectric section while the coaxial cable remains intact externally. This nesting approach allows fiber optic capability to be embedded within the existing copper infrastructure, achieving dual functionality without excavation or complete cable replacement.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional cable replacement methods are used, then complete fiberization is achieved, but excavation work and permit processes increase time and cost
Solution Approach 1:
The invention performs preliminary softening of the dielectric material before glass fiber introduction. By pre-heating and softening the dielectric in the first section of the cable, the path for glass fiber insertion is prepared in advance. This preliminary action eliminates the need for time-consuming excavation and cable replacement, allowing direct insertion of fibers through the softened section while the rest of the cable remains in service.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the physical state of the dielectric material from rigid to softened state through controlled heating. This parameter change (temperature increase) transforms the dielectric's properties, making it pliable enough to accommodate glass fibers. The dielectric is heated to a temperature range that softens it for fiber insertion but maintains enough structural integrity to keep the coaxial cable functional, enabling simultaneous operation of both cable types.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the dielectric is softened to introduce glass fibers, then fiberization is enabled, but the structural integrity of the cable may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The invention applies local quality changes to the dielectric, softening only the first section (where glass fibers need to be introduced) while maintaining the rigid state of the second section. This localized softening ensures that structural integrity is preserved in the portions of the cable that require mechanical strength, while only the necessary section is modified to accommodate fiber insertion. The transition between softened and rigid sections is gradual, maintaining overall cable stability.
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 rapid and cost-effective conversion of coaxial cables to glass-fibre cables with reduced labour and time, allowing for efficient network fibreization.
Implementation Method 1
The dielectric can be heated here by means of the first member and/or the core and/or the shield, preferably resistively by means of realizing an electric current through the first member and/or the core and/or the shield.
Implementation Method 2
The at least partially softened dielectric is preferably deformed and/or melted material of the at least partially melted dielectric is spread
Data Source
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AI summary
Method for converting a coaxial cable to a glass-fibre cable, characterized in that the method comprises of: - heating the dielectric such that the dielectric at least partially softens and/or at least partially melts; and - deforming the at least partially softened dielectric and/or spreading melted material of the at least partially melted dielectric such that a passage is created, which passage extends longitudinally inside the cable and inside the shield and is sufficiently large and suitable for introducing therein at least one glass fibre. Also device for converting such a coaxial cable to a glass-fibre cable. A coaxial cable can thus be converted relatively easily to a glass-fibre cable with a rninimum of work and excavation within a relatively short time and at greatly reduced costs. The at least partially softened dielectric is preferably deformed and/or melted material of the at least partially melted dielectric is spread by means of advancing longitudinally inside the cable and inside the shield a first member provided for the purpose and configured and suitable therefor, which first member is more preferably advanced, pushed and/or pulled inside the cable and inside the shield by means of an elongate second member provided for the purpose and configured and suitable therefor. The dielectric can be heated here by means of the first member and/or the core and/or the shield, preferably resistively by means of realizing an electric current through the first member and/or the core and/or the shield.