Kink Resistant Fiber Optic Splice Sleeve Design
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fiber optic cable repair methods weaken the cable structure, increase vulnerability to tension and bending, and create geometric abnormalities that lead to subsequent breakage and kinking, as they fail to restore the original protective layers and stiffness of the cable.
Innovation Solution
A multi-layered apparatus with structurally integrated polymer strengthening layers and a heat-shrinkable outer sleeve with sloped terminating ends, designed to maintain the cable's original diameter and flexibility, prevent sharp bends, and protect against damage from objects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a rigid case is used to protect the splice, then the splice is protected, but the cable becomes vulnerable to kinking and cannot be easily wound on a spooling device
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a flexible protective sleeve made of polymer material that can be shrunk onto the spliced cable. This flexible shell provides protection while maintaining cable flexibility, allowing the cable to be wound on spooling devices without kinking, unlike rigid cases.
Solution Approach 2:
The protective sleeve's physical parameters (diameter, length, material properties) are optimized to match the original cable characteristics. By changing the parameters of the protective layer to closely resemble the original cable, the repaired section maintains flexibility and can be properly handled and spooled.
2Ease of manufacture
If the protective layers are stripped during repair, then the splice can be made, but the cable structure is weakened and vulnerability to tension and bending increases
Solution Approach 1:
The protective system is segmented into multiple functional layers: a inner protective layer directly covering the splice, strengthening layers providing structural support, and an outer protective layer. This segmentation allows each layer to perform its specific function while collectively restoring the cable's original strength and protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite material structures with multiple layers having different properties. The combination of polymer materials with varying strengths, flexibilities, and protective characteristics creates a composite structure that restores and even enhances the cable's structural integrity while protecting the splice.
3Device complexity
If a single-layer protective sleeve is used, then the repair is simple, but the cable is inadequate to assure continued reliable communications
Solution Approach 1:
The multi-layer protective structure is pre-configured and pre-assembled before application to the cable. Each layer is prepared in advance with specific functions, allowing for a relatively simple application process while ensuring that all necessary protective functions are included for reliable long-term communication.
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 effectively strengthens and protects the repaired fiber optic cable, maintaining its original tension and flexibility, reducing the risk of breakage and kinking, while ensuring a smooth surface that prevents snagging and damage.
Implementation Method 1
an outer layer having a geometric configuration which includes sloped terminating ends designed to prevent the reinforced area of the fiber optic cable from being damaged
Data Source
AI summary
This invention is a method and system for addressing structural weaknesses and geometric differentials introduced to a cable when splicing optic fibers. The apparatus and method utilize structurally integrated layers of protective polymers and bonding materials selected for strength and flexibility relative to their thickness. This results in an apparatus having a minimally increased circumference compared to the cable. The method and apparatus include one or more strengthening layers which allow the repaired cable substantially similar flexibility compared to the cable, but prevent formation of sharp bends or kinks. The strengthening layers also allow the repaired cable a resistance to tension similar to the original cable. The method and apparatus further include an outer layer having a geometric configuration which includes sloped terminating ends designed to prevent the reinforced area of the cable from being damaged by the force of objects or substances in contact with cable.