Ruggedized Fiber Optic Connector with Custom Cable Length
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical fiber connector systems require factory-made, standard-length cables that often exceed the necessary length for outdoor installations, leading to excess cable storage, increased installation effort, and higher costs due to unnecessary inventory and replacement needs.
Innovation Solution
A ruggedized field-terminated optical fiber connector system that allows for custom-length drop cables and includes a rugged front portion, rear connector body, crimp ring, grommet, coupling nut, and strain relief member to provide a weatherproof and efficient connection solution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If factory-made standard-length cables are used, then connection reliability is ensured, but cable length cannot be customized leading to excess cable storage and increased costs
Solution Approach 1:
The connector components are prepared and assembled in the field before final installation, allowing the cable to be cut to the exact required length. The cable end is prepared, connector body is assembled, and then the connector is attached to the cable, enabling custom length optimization without factory constraints.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector system is divided into separate components (connector body, coupling nut, strain relief member, sealing members) that can be assembled in the field. This segmentation allows flexible assembly with custom-length cables while maintaining connection reliability through standardized interfacial components.
2Ease of operation
If field-terminated connectors are used, then installation flexibility and custom cable lengths are achieved, but connection reliability and weatherproofing may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
Different components of the connector system provide specialized functions: sealing members (O-rings, grommets) provide weatherproofing at critical interfaces, strain relief members provide mechanical protection, and the coupling nut provides secure attachment. Each component addresses specific reliability requirements while maintaining overall installation flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector system combines multiple materials with complementary properties: rubber or elastomeric sealing members for weatherproofing, rigid plastic or metal connector bodies for structural integrity, and flexible strain relief members for mechanical protection. This composite approach ensures reliability while enabling field installation.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If ruggedized connectors with multiple components are used, then weatherproofing and durability are improved, but device complexity and assembly difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connector components are designed to nest within each other: sealing members are positioned within the connector body, strain relief members are positioned within the coupling nut, and the coupling nut slides over the connector body. This nested arrangement provides comprehensive weatherproofing and durability while maintaining a compact overall structure that simplifies handling and installation.
Data Source
AI summary
Ruggedized field terminated optical fiber connector systems comprising a field terminated connector assembly including a drop cable coupled to a connector, the drop cable having a custom length. The ruggedized field terminated connector system may further comprise a rugged front portion configured to slide over at least a portion of the field terminated connector assembly, and a rear connector body configured to couple to the rugged front portion. The rear body has a crimp ring and a grommet is slide into said crimp ring, and secured therein.