Fiber Splice Closure Structure for Sealing and Axial Pull Relief
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical fiber communications systems face challenges in protecting and securing splice points and drop points for fiber optic cables, as the optical fibers are exposed and require improved enclosures to maintain integrity and environmental sealing.
Innovation Solution
A splice closure that includes an inner framework with splice holders and a protective sheath, anchored to the optical cables or their strength members, featuring sealing arrangements at both ends to create an environmental seal and prevent axial pull on the fibers, with optional cable fixation structures and fiber storage regions to manage excess fiber length.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the optical fibers are exposed from the protective cable jacket for splicing, then the splicing operation can be performed, but the fibers are vulnerable to environmental damage and axial pull
Solution Approach 1:
The splice closure employs a nested structure where the inner framework with splice holders is surrounded by an outer protective sheath. The sheath defines a through-passage that accommodates the inner framework, creating nested layers of protection. This nested design allows the splice operation to be performed within the protected inner framework while the outer sheath provides environmental sealing against moisture and contaminants.
Solution Approach 2:
The splice closure is divided into distinct functional segments: the inner framework segment that provides structural support and cable anchoring, the splice holder segment that protects the spliced fibers, and the outer sheath segment that provides environmental sealing. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while working together as an integrated protective system.
2Reliability
If the splice closure is made non-reenterable with a broken protective arrangement, then the environmental seal is maintained, but the closure cannot be accessed for future maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The splice closure is designed with preliminary sealing arrangements that create an environmental barrier before any potential future access needs arise. The end caps and sealing mechanisms are pre-installed to provide immediate protection, while the overall design anticipates future maintenance needs through its modular structure that can be systematically opened if required.
Solution Approach 2:
The design incorporates redundant sealing elements and robust structural features that cushion against the need for future access. The environmental seal is strengthened in advance with multiple sealing arrangements, reducing the likelihood that future maintenance will compromise the environmental protection. The structure is designed to maintain integrity even if access is eventually required.
3Strength
If the framework anchors to the optical cables, then axial pull is prevented, but the installation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The framework is designed with multi-functional cable anchoring features that can accommodate different cable types and anchoring methods. The cable fixation regions incorporate universal anchoring mechanisms that can secure various cable configurations (single fiber, multi-fiber, different cable constructions) using the same basic framework structure, reducing installation complexity while maintaining strong axial pull resistance.
Solution Approach 2:
The framework combines multiple anchoring functions into a single integrated structure. The cable fixation regions merge the functions of cable support, strain relief, and axial pull resistance into unified structural elements. This consolidation reduces the number of separate components and installation steps required while providing comprehensive protection against axial forces.
Data Source
AI summary
An enclosure for accommodating splicing between cables is disclosed. The enclosure can include a housing containing a frame (e.g., a tray) to which the cables can be affixed. The housing can have an elongate in-line configuration, a triangular configuration, or other configurations. Cable reversing configurations and moveable adapter configurations are also disclosed.