Optical Fiber Insert Curved Bend Element
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical fiber assembly inserts damage optical fibers during the splicing process due to the sharp edges of the cable jacket, which can cause mechanical stress and breakage when pulling out the fibers.
Innovation Solution
The insert features a curved bend element that protrudes into the recess, guiding the optical fiber along a smooth, curved surface to prevent sliding against sharp edges and ensure safe extraction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the optical fiber element is pulled out quickly from the cut-out portion, then the splicing operation can be performed efficiently, but the optical fiber element may be damaged by sliding against sharp edges
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a curved guiding surface as an intermediary element between the optical fiber element and the sharp edges of the cut-out portion. This curved surface acts as a mediator that redirects the fiber element along a smooth path during pull-out, preventing direct contact with sharp edges while maintaining efficient splicing operations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies curvature by forming a curved surface (such as a rounded corner or arc-shaped guide) at the intersection of the cut-out portion. This curved geometry replaces sharp edges with a smooth, rounded path that guides the optical fiber element during extraction, eliminating the risk of mechanical damage while preserving operational efficiency
2Ease of operation
If the optical fiber element is pulled out from around the edge of the cable jacket, then access is achieved, but mechanical stress and breakage can occur
Solution Approach 1:
The curved guiding surface serves as an intermediary structure that facilitates fiber access while protecting the fiber element. It provides a controlled path for extraction that eliminates direct interaction between the fragile fiber and the sharp structural edges, maintaining both ease of operation and fiber strength
Solution Approach 2:
The curved surface provides beforehand cushioning by creating a protective geometric feature prior to the fiber element encountering any potential damage points. The rounded geometry anticipates the fiber's path and pre-prevents mechanical stress concentration that would occur at sharp edges
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to an insert for an optical fiber assembly through which an optical fiber element can be pulled out without damage. The insert is provided for guiding a part of the optical cable (2) which comprises at least one optical fiber element (3) and being accommodated in a housing of the optical fiber assembly, wherein said part of the optical cable (2) has a cut-out portion in which a jacket of said optical cable (2) is partially removed, thereby exposing said at least one optical fiber element (3). The insert (1) comprises an optical cable guidance means (4) for guiding said optical cable (2) across the insert (1); a recess (5) surrounding the exposed optical fiber element (3) and a bend element (6) arranged at an end portion of the recess (5) and projecting from the recess (5) in a curved manner.