Fiber Optic Cable Strain Relief Device With Compression Cap
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation of fiber optic cables in FTTH networks requires effective strain relief to prevent damage during and after installation, especially when extending through enclosures or walls, as conventional methods are complex and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A strain relief device comprising a cable fitting with a shoulder washer and compression cap that compresses strength members between the washer and cap, providing compressive force to secure the cable and prevent damage, along with a method for assembling this device on the fiber optic cable.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional strain relief methods are used for fiber optic cable installation, then the cable can be secured, but the installation process becomes complex and space-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple strain relief components (shoulder washer, compression cap, strength members) into a single integrated cable fitting assembly. The shoulder washer and compression cap work together as a unified system to compress the strength members against the cable, eliminating the need for separate strain relief devices and simplifying the overall installation process while maintaining effective strain relief.
Solution Approach 2:
The cable fitting serves multiple functions simultaneously: the shoulder washer provides a bearing surface and compression point, the compression cap applies and maintains compressive force, and the strength members anchor the cable. This multi-functional design consolidates what would traditionally require multiple separate components into a single universal fitting that handles both mechanical support and strain relief.
2Reliability
If conventional strain relief methods are used for fiber optic cable installation, then the cable can be secured, but the installation requires more space
Solution Approach 1:
The compression cap is designed to fit over the strength members and compress them against the shoulder washer in a nested arrangement. The strength members are positioned within the cavity of the compression cap, and the entire assembly fits within the cable fitting body. This nesting approach minimizes the overall volume required for the strain relief device compared to conventional methods that use separate, bulkier components.
3Reliability
If the compression cap provides high compressive force, then the strain relief effectiveness increases, but the risk of damaging the cable increases
Solution Approach 1:
The shoulder washer acts as an intermediary element between the compression cap and the cable strength members. It distributes the compressive force from the compression cap over a larger surface area of the strength members, preventing stress concentration that could damage the cable. The washer material is selected to provide appropriate compliance, ensuring sufficient compression for strain relief while protecting the cable from excessive or localized pressure.
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 provides reliable strain relief with a pull-out force of 25-50 lbs or more, simplifies installation, and requires less space compared to conventional methods, ensuring the integrity of fiber optic cables in FTTH networks.
Implementation Method 1
The compression cap provides compressive force between the cable fitting body, the shoulder washer. The strength members are compressed between the shoulder washer and the compression cap.
Data Source
AI summary
A strain relief device for a fiber optic cable is disclosed. The strain relief device has a cable fitting having a cable fitting body, a shoulder washer and a compression cap. The cable fitting is positioned on the fiber optic cable. The shoulder washer is installed on a central tube of the fiber optic cable, under strength members of the fiber optic cable and fitted in the cable fitting body. The compression cap is installed over the central tube with the strength members inserted through the compression cap. The strength members are compressed between the shoulder washer and the compression cap. The compression cap provides compressive force between the cable fitting body, the shoulder washer and the compression cap.