Fiber Optic Cable Bend Relief in End Cap Passageway
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fiber optic cable assemblies require external components for cable bend relief, which increases the connector size and complexity, making them unsuitable for active optic cable (AOC) assemblies that need a compact and reliable strain-relief solution for frequent connections and disconnections in consumer applications.
Innovation Solution
The integration of a bend surface within the end cap passageway of the connector provides cable bend relief, eliminating the need for discrete components and allowing for a compact, clean-looking connector footprint while maintaining a suitable bend radius during aggressive bending.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional crimp bands and boots are used for cable bend relief, then strain relief is provided, but the connector size and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the cable bend relief function with the end cap structure by integrating a bend relief surface directly into the end cap passageway. This merging eliminates the need for separate boots or overmolded portions, reducing connector complexity while maintaining strain relief capability
Solution Approach 2:
The end cap structure is designed to serve multiple functions: it provides structural support, defines the passageway for the fiber optic cable, and simultaneously provides cable bend relief through its integrated bend relief surface. This multi-functionality reduces the number of discrete components needed
2Reliability
If conventional boots or overmolded portions are added for cable bend relief, then bend relief is provided, but the connector footprint increases
Solution Approach 1:
The bend relief function is merged into the existing end cap structure rather than adding separate external components. The bend relief surface is formed as part of the end cap passageway, eliminating the need for additional boots or overmolded portions that would increase the connector footprint
3Reliability
If discrete components are used for cable bend relief, then strain relief is provided, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the cable bend relief function directly into the end cap structure, eliminating the need for separate discrete components such as boots or overmolded portions. This integration simplifies the manufacturing process by reducing the number of parts that need to be produced, assembled, and quality-checked
Solution Approach 2:
The end cap is designed to perform multiple functions including structural support, cable guidance through its passageway, and cable bend relief through its integrated bend relief surface. This multi-functionality reduces the total component count and simplifies manufacturing
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~3A
Figure 3B~3D
AI summary
Fiber optic cable sub-assemblies having an end cap device (217) with an internal bend relief are disclosed. In one embodiment, the fiber optic cable sub-assembly has at least one optical fiber of a fiber optic cable (203) attached to a circuit board (205) with the end cap device (217) providing strain relief to the fiber optic cable (203). The circuit board (205) includes an active optical component (207) in operable communication with the optical fiber for forming an active optical cable (AOC) assembly. Additionally, a strain relief device may be used for attaching an end portion of the-fiber optic cable (203) to the circuit board (205), thereby forming the cable sub-assembly (101). Methods of assembling the fiber optic cable sub-assembly are also disclosed.