Flexible Fiber Routing Substrates for Faster Connector Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fiber optic connector systems in telecommunication networks face inefficiencies in pre-assembly and installation, particularly in managing and routing optical fibers within enclosures like multi-service terminals, which can be cumbersome and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
The use of flexible polymeric substrates, such as films, pre-routed with optical fibers and equipped with features like foldable flaps and adhesive sections, allows for efficient pre-assembly and routing of optical fibers within telecommunication enclosures, facilitating efficient installation and management of fiber optic connectors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional fiber optic connector systems are used without pre-routed fibers, then flexibility in installation timing is maintained, but assembly and installation become cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-routing optical fibers on the polymeric substrate before the enclosure is assembled. The fibers are positioned and secured to the substrate in advance, allowing the entire fiber routing infrastructure to be prepared beforehand. This eliminates the time-consuming task of routing individual fibers during final assembly, directly improving productivity while the substrate integrates all routing paths into a unified structure that manages complexity.
2Loss of time
If fibers are pre-terminated with connectors, then installation time is reduced, but handling and positioning during assembly becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the optical fibers with the polymeric substrate by securing them to the substrate surface. This combination creates a unified assembly where pre-terminated connectors are already positioned and secured to the substrate, eliminating the need for separate handling during assembly. The merging of fibers and substrate maintains ease of operation while achieving time savings from pre-termination.
3Stability of the object's composition
If rigid fiber routing structures are used, then fiber position stability is improved, but adaptability to different enclosure configurations is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a polymeric substrate, which is a flexible thin film material, to route and secure optical fibers. This flexible substrate provides stability for fiber positioning while allowing the entire routing structure to be adapted to different enclosure configurations. The flexibility of the polymeric material enables customization for various layouts without compromising fiber position stability during operation.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to fiber management systems and methods for facilitating assembling fiber optic devices in an efficient manner by allowing optical fibers to be pre-routed on a flexible substrate such as a film prior to installation in their corresponding fiber optic devices. The flexible substrate can include unitary flaps for providing a variety of functions such as substrate positioning and spacing, temporary connector storage, fiber bend radius protection, fiber holding, and optical component holding.