Fiber Optic Cable Shield Connector Without Sheath Stripping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for grounding fiber optic cables require stripping the outer nonconductive sheath, exposing the internal components to external elements, which is undesirable.
Innovation Solution
A fiber optic cable external shield connector that uses a grounding cover and base with conductive prongs to connect the corrugated conductive shield and strength member to an outside ground without removing the outer protective layer, employing a clamping mechanism to pierce the sheath and establish a conductive connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the outer nonconductive sheath is stripped to ground the fiber optic cable, then grounding is achieved, but the internal components are exposed to external elements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a connector as an intermediary device that interfaces with the fiber optic cable through the intact outer sheath. The connector contains conductive prongs that pierce the sheath and contact the internal conductive shield and strength member, establishing a grounding path to an external ground point without requiring removal of the protective outer layer
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is divided into separate functional components: a housing that interfaces with the cable exterior, conductive prongs that pierce the sheath, and a grounding mechanism that connects to external ground. This segmentation allows the grounding function to be achieved independently without compromising the integrity of the outer protective layer
2Ease of manufacture
If the outer nonconductive sheath is stripped to access internal components, then grounding connection is established, but the cable protection is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The connector serves as a mediator that enables grounding installation without direct manipulation of the cable's internal structure. The housing engages with the cable exterior, and the piercing prongs create minimal openings that are immediately sealed, maintaining protective integrity while enabling easy grounding installation
Solution Approach 2:
The connector housing is pre-configured with engagement features that interface with the cable's outer structure. The conductive prongs are pre-positioned to pierce the sheath and contact internal components upon insertion, allowing grounding to be established in a single operation without requiring prior stripping or preparation of the cable
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 safe and effective grounding of fiber optic cables without exposing the internal components to external elements, ensuring protection and performance while maintaining the integrity of the outer sheath.
Implementation Method 1
an electrically conductive grounding assembly. Each conductive assembly includes an array of prongs which ultimately conductively communicates with the external ground
Data Source
AI summary
A fiber optic cable external shield connector grounds a fiber optic cable having both a corrugated conductive shield and a strength member without removal of the outer protective layer of the fiber optic cable. The connector has a grounding cover and a cooperative grounding base each with an electrically conductive grounding assembly having an array of prongs. Bosses of the cover and bosses of the base are fastened together to force the prongs of the conductive assembly to pierce the outer non-conductive sheath of the fiber optic cable. The prongs cooperatively pinch the strength member to ultimately connect the corrugated shield and strength member to an outside ground.