Remote Tether Release Apparatus for Fiber Optic Cable Assemblies
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Solution Overview
Problem
In Fiber-to-the-Premises (FTTP) and other optical networks, accessing and properly positioning tethered assemblies within buried duct environments is challenging due to the difficulty in releasing lashed tethers and assemblies from distribution cables, especially in small diameter ducts, requiring manual and labor-intensive methods to pull back the tethered assemblies into hand holes for connection.
Innovation Solution
The development of remote tether release apparatus, including rip cords, pull cords, and lashing cutting devices, allows for the release of tethered assemblies from distribution cables at any point along the tether length, enabling easier access and repositioning without disturbing the distribution cable, using materials like Kevlar reinforced threads and solenoid-activated mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual lashing removal is used in buried duct environments, then the tether can be released, but the installation becomes labor intensive and requires multiple operators
Solution Approach 1:
A release mechanism is introduced as an intermediary component between the tether and distribution cable. This mechanism includes a release device accessible from the hand hole and a corresponding trigger mechanism on the tether, allowing single-operator control over the tether release process without requiring manual manipulation of lashings in the confined duct space
Solution Approach 2:
The manual mechanical lashing removal process is replaced with a controlled mechanical release system. The release mechanism uses a trigger-based system that mechanically activates the detachment of the tether from the distribution cable, substituting the complex manual lashing removal task with a simple single-point activation
2Ease of operation
If the distribution cable is pulled back to access the tethered assembly, then the assembly becomes accessible, but the distribution cable installation is disturbed
Solution Approach 1:
The tether release system is segmented into independent components: a release mechanism attached to the distribution cable at the hand hole, and a trigger mechanism on the tether. This segmentation allows the tether to be released independently without affecting the distribution cable installation, as each component can be activated separately at its location
3Ease of operation
If lashings are removed manually by overshooting hand holes, then the tether can be accessed, but multiple operators are required and the process is complex
Solution Approach 1:
The release mechanism is designed to be self-activating through a trigger system. When the operator pulls the release device at the hand hole, it automatically triggers the detachment mechanism on the tether, eliminating the need for complex coordinated manual lashing removal by multiple operators. The system serves itself by automatically initiating the release sequence
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
Facilitates efficient and labor-saving access to tethered assemblies by allowing remote release and retraction of tethers and assemblies into hand holes, reducing installation complexity and compensating for installation errors, particularly in buried duct environments.
Implementation Method 1
solenoid-activated mechanisms
Data Source
AI summary
A cable assembly comprising a first fiber optic cable, a second fiber optic cable attached to the first fiber optic cable, and an apparatus for remotely releasing at least a portion of the second fiber optic cable from attachment to the first fiber optic cable. A cable assembly comprising a distribution cable, a tether cable attached and optically interconnected to the distribution cable at a first position, and removably attached to the distribution cable at one or more second positions, and a tether cable release apparatus for remotely releasing at least a portion of the tether cable from the distribution cable to allow the tether and a tethered assembly to be pulled to a predetermined location within a network.