Quick-Release Pulling Grip for Ground-Level Fiber Cable Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pulling grips for fiber optic cables require multiple steps and operator movements for removal, which are time-consuming and inefficient, especially when transitioning between elevated pathways and ground locations during installation.
Innovation Solution
A quick-release pulling grip assembly for fiber optic cables that allows for tool-less removal from the deployed location by using a flexible line with a quick release assembly, including a locking tube and coupler, which transfers tensile loads through a pulling loop to the cable's strength member, bypassing the connectors, enabling efficient installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional pulling grips are used for fiber optic cable installation, then the cable can be pulled through elevated pathways, but the operator must relocate to multiple points along the pathway to remove the pulling grip, which is time-consuming and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the pulling grip removal operation from the elevated pathway location and relocates it to ground level. The flexible line extends from the pulling grip through the cable assembly to the ground, allowing the operator to remove the pulling grip from the deployed location without accessing the elevated pathway. This extraction of the removal function to a different location resolves the contradiction by eliminating the need for operator relocation while maintaining the cable pulling capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible line acts as an intermediary element that connects the pulling grip at the elevated pathway to the operator at ground level. This intermediary allows the operator to control and remove the pulling grip from a safe, accessible location without directly accessing the elevated pathway. The flexible line mediates between the two locations, enabling efficient operation without requiring operator relocation.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the pulling grip is removed from elevated pathways, then operator safety is improved, but additional removal steps and equipment are required
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible line serves multiple functions: it transmits the pulling force during cable installation, positions the pulling grip at the elevated pathway, and enables removal of the pulling grip from ground level. This multi-functionality allows a single component to address both safety concerns and operational requirements without requiring separate systems for each function, thereby managing device complexity while improving safety.
Solution Approach 2:
The pulling grip assembly is segmented into distinct components: the pulling grip itself, the flexible line, and the quick-release mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while working together as an integrated system. The flexible line is a separate, replaceable component that enables safe remote operation, while the quick-release mechanism provides simple removal capability.
3Strength
If multiple cable securing methods are used (ties, heat shrinks, knots, tape), then the pulling grip is securely attached, but the removal process becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The quick-release mechanism provides a dynamic attachment system that transitions from a locked state during cable pulling to an unlocked state during removal. The locking tube can be moved between positions to engage or disengage the coupler, allowing the attachment to be strong during installation but easily released when needed. This dynamic capability resolves the contradiction by providing both strong attachment and easy removal through a single mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking tube position parameter is changed to control the attachment state. When the locking tube is in the first position, the coupler is engaged and the attachment is strong. When the locking tube is moved to the second position, the coupler is disengaged and removal is enabled. This parameter change (position of the locking tube) allows the system to switch between strong attachment and easy removal states.
Data Source
AI summary
A fiber optic cable assembly includes a fiber optic cable carrying a strength member and a plurality of optical fibers terminated by one or more fiber optic connectors. The cable assembly further includes a pulling grip assembly having a flexible line with a gripping end and an attachment end, a coupler at the attachment end, and a quick release assembly at the gripping end. The quick release assembly receives the coupler to releasably connect the attachment end to the gripping end. The flexible line is routed through a pulling loop with the attachment end and the gripping end of the flexible line connected at an end of the fiber optic cable. The attachment end and the gripping end are releasable from each other at the end of the cable. A method of attaching a pulling grip assembly to a fiber optic cable is also disclosed.