Field Installed Fiber Optic Connector Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Fiber optic connectors are too large to be readily routed through ducts, particularly for hardened connectors, which complicates the installation of pre-terminated fiber optic cables in fiber optic networks.
Innovation Solution
A field installable connector system that includes a factory-terminated subassembly with a small transverse cross-section for routing through ducts, which can be converted into a hardened connector using a field installable subassembly for secure and sealed connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If hardened fiber optic connectors are used for outside environments, then connection reliability and environmental sealing are improved, but the connector size increases making it difficult to route through ducts
Solution Approach 1:
The connector system is divided into two separate components: a compact factory-terminated subassembly that can be routed through ducts, and a separate field-installable hardened subassembly that provides the robust connection interface. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function without compromising the other.
Solution Approach 2:
The factory-terminated subassembly is designed to be inserted into and nested within the field-installable hardened subassembly. The compact ferrule assembly fits inside the larger hardened connector housing, creating a nested structure that combines the benefits of both small size and hardened protection.
2Productivity
If pre-terminated connectors are used to facilitate factory termination, then installation efficiency is improved, but the connector size prevents easy routing through ducts
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the termination function (performed in factory on compact subassembly) from the hardened connection function (added in field). This allows pre-termination efficiency to be maintained while the compact size enables duct routing.
Solution Approach 2:
The ferrule assembly is pre-terminated and compacted in the factory before field installation. This preliminary action completes the termination process early, improving productivity while the reduced size from this pre-compaction enables easy routing through ducts in the field.
3Reliability
If hardened connectors with twist-to-lock fasteners are used, then connection security is improved, but the connector becomes bulkier and more difficult to install in confined spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The hardened connection interface with twist-to-lock fastener is separated into a field-installable subassembly that is only attached after the compact connector is routed into position. This segmentation allows the security features to be added only when needed, reducing bulk during installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector system transitions from a static compact form during installation to a dynamic assembled form with hardened protection and twist-to-lock mechanism after installation. The field-installable subassembly can be attached and detached, providing hardened security only when the connector is in its final installed position.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a field installable connector system. The connector system includes a factory terminated subassembly including a ferrule terminating an optical fiber of an optical fiber cable. The factory terminated subassembly has a small transverse cross-section to facilitate routing through a duct. The connector system also includes a field installable subassembly including various connector components that can be installed after the factory terminated subassembly has been routed through a duct. The components can be sealed and hardened.