Strength Member Pulling Loop for Fiber Optic Cable Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
During the installation of fiber optic cables, the existing methods often damage the optical fibers due to the transfer of pulling loads directly to them, which can occur when preconnectorized cables are pulled through tight spaces or conduits.
Innovation Solution
A strength member pulling loop is formed within the fiber optic cable by exposing and securing a strength member inside the cable jacket, allowing the pulling load to be translated to the strength member instead of the optical fibers, thereby protecting them from damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the fiber optic cable is pulled directly through conduits during installation, then the cable can be installed in tight spaces, but the pulling load is transferred to the optical fibers causing damage
Solution Approach 1:
A strength member pulling loop is introduced as an intermediary element between the pulling force and the optical fibers. The pulling loop is formed from the strength member (such as aramid yarn) that is already embedded in the cable structure, creating a dedicated load-bearing component that intercepts the pulling force before it can reach the optical fibers.
Solution Approach 2:
The cable structure is segmented into distinct functional components: the optical fibers for signal transmission, the strength members for mechanical support, and the pulling loop for installation. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function without interfering with others, particularly isolating the optical fibers from mechanical stresses during installation.
2Reliability
If a pulling grip is used to transfer load to the cable jacket, then the cable can be pulled without direct fiber loading, but a portion of the pulling load is still transferred to components inside the cable including the optical fiber
Solution Approach 1:
The strength member pulling loop serves as an intermediary that captures and contains the pulling load within the cable structure. By forming the loop from the strength member itself, the pulling force is channeled through the strength member's high tensile strength properties, preventing force transmission to the optical fibers.
Solution Approach 2:
The strength member is pre-positioned and configured within the cable structure before installation to provide cushioning protection. The pulling loop is prepared in advance as a load-absorbing element that will intercept and dissipate pulling forces, protecting the optical fibers from damage during the installation process.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods of preparing strength member pulling members in fiber optic cable furcations and related components, assemblies, and fiber optic cables are disclosed. To allow fiber optic cables to be pulled without damaging optical fiber(s) disposed therein, a strength member pulling loop is formed from a strength member disposed inside the fiber optic cable. A pulling cord can be disposed in the strength member pulling loop to pull the fiber optic cable. The pulling load applied to the pulling cord is translated to the strength member pulling loop, which is translated to the strength member disposed inside the fiber optic cable. In this manner, when the fiber optic cable is pulled, the pulling load is translated to the strength member disposed inside the fiber optic cable to prevent or avoid damaging the optical fiber(s) disposed inside the fiber optic cable.