Guided Optical Cable Wire Removal Without Sleeve Rework
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for removing a wire from within an optical cable often result in damage to the wire or the cable, and known tools are not suitable for this task as they either damage the cable or require additional modifications to restore its functionality.
Innovation Solution
A handheld tool with a base, a blade attached at a predetermined angle, and a cable support extension that guides the optical cable towards the blade for efficient wire removal without damaging the cable, allowing immediate reuse of the optical cable post-removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual techniques are used to remove a wire from within an optical cable, then the wire can be removed, but the wire and/or cable may be damaged and the cable may retain a jagged edge
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a specialized handheld tool as an intermediary device between the technician and the optical cable. This tool includes a support surface that cradles the cable and a blade that precisely removes the wire, preventing direct manual manipulation that causes damage. The tool acts as a mediator that enables wire removal while protecting the cable's structural integrity.
2Productivity
If known tools such as cable splitters are used to remove a wire from an optical cable, then the wire can be removed, but the optical cable is split and requires additional modifications such as re-applying weather protection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by designing a tool that performs a localized operation - removing only the specific wire needed while leaving the rest of the optical cable intact. The blade is positioned to cut only the target wire, and the support surface maintains the cable's overall structure. This localized approach eliminates the need for complete cable splitting and subsequent restoration work.
Solution Approach 2:
The tool design segments the wire removal function from the cable structure. The blade separately targets and removes the wire while the support surface independently maintains cable integrity. This segmentation allows the wire to be removed without compromising the cable's protective layers and structural components.
3Productivity
If a blade is used to cut the wire, then the wire can be removed efficiently, but the blade may damage the outer sleeve and other components of the optical cable
Solution Approach 1:
The support surface acts as an intermediary protective element between the blade and the optical cable's outer components. It positions the cable at a precise angle and provides a stable base that prevents the blade from contacting and damaging the protective sleeve and other components while still allowing efficient wire cutting.
Solution Approach 2:
The tool performs preliminary positioning and stabilization of the optical cable before the cutting action occurs. The support surface is designed to cradle and secure the cable in the correct position, ensuring that when the blade engages, it only contacts the wire and not other vulnerable components. This preliminary setup prevents harmful effects before they can occur.
Data Source
AI summary
Handheld tools are provided for removing a wire from within an optical cable. For example, the handheld tool may be used to remove a copper wire from a fiber optic drop cable in an efficient manner without damaging other components of the fiber optic drop cable. Advantageously, the optical cable may be used immediately after the wire is removed without further steps by the technician, such as re-applying an outer protective sleeve, as is commonly required with known tools.