Elastomeric Plug Connector Cover for Outside Plant Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical fiber connector protection methods for outside plant applications are inefficient due to time-consuming installation, inconsistent sealing, adhesive residue issues, and compromised sealing in harsh environmental conditions, particularly when using tape or prior art mechanisms like bayonet restraining mechanisms and o-rings.
Innovation Solution
A connector cover apparatus featuring an elongated hollow cylindrical cover with a plug made from elastomeric material, providing a sliding interference fit and secure sealing with a clamp, allowing easy removal and re-sealing without adhesive residue, using an elastomeric plug and clamp system for reliable environmental protection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If tape is used to seal the connector cover, then sealing is provided, but installation time increases and adhesive residue is left on components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the tape sealing method entirely and replaces it with a mechanical interference fit system. The plug is extracted from the cover through a bore, and the cover is secured to the connector assembly through a retaining mechanism that eliminates the need for adhesive tape, thereby reducing installation time and eliminating adhesive residue issues while maintaining sealing reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the chemical sealing mechanism (adhesive tape) with a mechanical sealing system. The plug and cover engage through a precise interference fit and retaining mechanism, using mechanical forces instead of adhesive bonding to achieve both sealing and secure attachment, thereby eliminating residue and reducing installation complexity
2Reliability
If tape is used to seal the connector cover, then sealing is provided, but sealing consistency becomes difficult to control
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical interference fit system is self-aligning and self-sealing. The plug automatically positions within the cover bore, and the retaining mechanism ensures consistent engagement without requiring manual tape application. This eliminates variability in sealing application and ensures uniform sealing performance across all installations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual tape application process with a precision mechanical interference fit system. The engineered dimensions of the plug and cover create a consistent mechanical seal that is independent of manual application skill, thereby achieving uniform sealing consistency across all installations
3Reliability
If tape adhesive is used for sealing, then sealing is achieved, but adhesive performance deteriorates in harsh environmental conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a disposable elastomeric plug that is replaced rather than repaired. The elastomeric material provides environmental sealing without the degradation issues of adhesive tape, and the entire plug-assembly can be easily replaced if needed, eliminating the need to maintain deteriorating adhesive bonds in harsh environments
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the material parameter from adhesive-based sealing to elastomeric material sealing. The elastomeric plug maintains its sealing properties across a wide temperature range and in harsh environmental conditions, whereas adhesive tape degrades under similar conditions. This material parameter change resolves the environmental durability issue
4Reliability
If tape is used to secure the cover, then sealing is provided, but residue from adhesive remains on connector components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes the adhesive tape sealing method entirely. The mechanical interference fit system provides sealing without any adhesive materials, thereby eliminating the harmful residue effect on connector components while maintaining the necessary sealing protection
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the adhesive-based sealing system with a mechanical interference fit system. This substitution eliminates adhesive residue on connector components and cable assemblies, as the mechanical engagement provides both sealing and attachment functions without requiring adhesive materials
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
The solution ensures reliable environmental sealing across a wide range of temperatures and conditions, simplifies the removal process, and prevents adhesive residue on connectors and cordage, enhancing installation efficiency and reducing deployment costs.
Implementation Method 1
a plug made from an elastomeric material, the plug having a plug first end, a plug second end, a bore extending through the plug from the plug first end to the plug second end
Implementation Method 2
the plug cover mating surface is operable to mate with and securely seal the cover second end by an interference fit
Data Source
AI summary
Certain embodiments of the invention may include apparatuses, systems, and methods for providing a connector cover for outside plant application. According to an example embodiment of the invention, a connector cover assembly is provided. The assembly can include an elongated hollow cylindrical cover having a closed first end, and open second end. The assembly includes a plug comprising an elastomeric material and having a plug first end, a plug second end, a bore extending through the plug from the plug first end to the plug second end, and a cover mating surface adjacent to the plug first end. The cover mating surface is operable to slidingly engage the cover, and the plug is operable to surround and slidingly engage optical fiber cordage extending through the bore.