Fiber Optic Cable Strain Relief via Partial Strength Element Exposure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for terminating fiber optic cables are challenging due to the difficulty in exposing strength elements from cables with high bonding between the strength elements and the cable jacket, making the process time-consuming and complex, especially for outdoor applications.
Innovation Solution
A method for securing fiber optic cables to a retention body that involves partially exposing strength components while keeping them attached to the cable jacket, allowing for strain relief without fully stripping them, and using mechanical elements or bonding agents for secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If strength elements are totally exposed from the cable jacket for termination, then the connector can handle different types of fiber optic cables, but the preparation process becomes difficult and time-consuming for cables with high bonding between strength elements and cable jacket
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by exposing only a portion of the strength elements from the cable jacket rather than totally exposing them. This partial exposure is sufficient for achieving reliable strain relief and connector termination while significantly reducing the time and difficulty of cable preparation, especially for cables with high bonding between strength elements and jacket.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements local quality by creating a localized exposed region of strength elements at the cable end where termination is needed, while leaving the rest of the strength elements bonded to the cable jacket. This localized approach provides the necessary adaptability for connector attachment without requiring complete exposure of all strength elements.
2Strength
If strength elements are totally exposed for termination, then strain relief can be achieved, but the bonding between strength elements and cable jacket is completely removed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses partial action by exposing only the necessary portion of strength elements for strain relief while maintaining the bonding of the remaining strength elements to the cable jacket. This partial exposure provides sufficient strain relief capability without completely removing the bonding relationship, preserving cable structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the strength elements into two functional zones: an exposed portion that provides strain relief and attachment points for the connector, and a bonded portion that maintains structural integrity with the cable jacket. This segmentation allows both strain relief and bonding integrity to coexist.
3Productivity
If a simple and easy termination method is used, then assembly is faster, but the pull-out strength and reliability of the connector may be insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves reliable pull-out strength through partial exposure of strength elements, which provides sufficient bonding surface area and mechanical interlocking without requiring complete exposure. This approach maintains reliability while enabling faster assembly compared to traditional methods that require total exposure and complex preparation steps.
Data Source
AI summary
Fiber optic cable assemblies and related components, securing methods, and fiber optic cable preparation methods for securing of a fiber optic cable to a retention body and/or fiber optic connector are disclosed. An end portion of the fiber optic cable is prepared and inserted into a retention body or the like for securing the cable to the same. In one embodiment, a partially exposed portion of a strength component and a portion of a cable jacket are secured to a retention body while another portion of the strength component remains secured to the cable jacket. In this manner, the fiber optic cable is secured to the retention body while the strength component and the cable jacket also remain secured to each other for providing strain relief.