CA2348062A1 - Method for installing a fiber optic conduit system - Google Patents
Method for installing a fiber optic conduit system Download PDFInfo
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- CA2348062A1 CA2348062A1 CA 2348062 CA2348062A CA2348062A1 CA 2348062 A1 CA2348062 A1 CA 2348062A1 CA 2348062 CA2348062 CA 2348062 CA 2348062 A CA2348062 A CA 2348062A CA 2348062 A1 CA2348062 A1 CA 2348062A1
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Abstract
A method for installing a fiber optic conduit system to the end user includes the steps of excavating a unitary trench from a common location at about utility distribution sources, positioning a fiber optic cable and electric line in the unitary trench, extending the fiber conduit toward a local access pedestal and networking and distributing the fiber optic conduit at the pedestal toward a plurality of service access points. The method further includes splicing the fiber conduits at the access points toward a plurality of distribution boxes and splicing the fiber optic conduit at the distribution boxes toward a plurality of end users. A
trench for carrying out the method has a base and generally vertically extending side walls that are about 48 inches to about 66 inches deep and 24 inches wide, and the local access pedestal and service access points are located so access to a 120 volt power source is available.
trench for carrying out the method has a base and generally vertically extending side walls that are about 48 inches to about 66 inches deep and 24 inches wide, and the local access pedestal and service access points are located so access to a 120 volt power source is available.
Description
METHOD FOR INSTALLING A FIBER OPTIC C'.ONDUIT SYSTEM
Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a method for installing, for distribution and networking, telecommunication dedicated utility lines. More particularly, this invention pertains to a method for installing a fiber optic conduit for distribution and networking to several end users.
Background of the Invention Trenching and the installation of utility lines such as water, sewer and gas service dates 1 o back to the nineteenth century. Those familiar with the more modern approaches to trenching and utility line installation will recognize that many of the conventional methods of installing these service lines has been carried over for use in installing modern services such as telecommunications and the like. In addition, often in the creation of a residential or commercial development area, the installation of utility lines, such as electrical, water, gas and 1. 5 telecommunications services can be a considerable portion of the overall development cost.
Various aspects of the installation of these services have been overlooked.
For example, consideration of new types (or as yet unknown) of services, and service area expansion have not traditionally been given the importance they demand. 'I"his is particularly the case in the initial planning stages of these residential and commercial development areas. As such, when new 2 o types of services become available or when service areas need to be expanded, traditional installation techniques may not provide the means or capabilities to do so in an efficient and cost effective manner, arid without undue disruption to existing services.
Several methods have been utilized to distribute utility lines and more specifically, fiber optic cable, from a distribution source to an end user. For example, traditional systems employ following a trench for electrical lines with separation at a higher trench elevation for fiber optic cable. Other methods utilize one major fiber optic, co-axial trunk conduit that is spliced into several service conduits that are eventually distributed to an end user.
However, because there was only one splicing location, loclg service conduit runs became necessary.
These long runs, however, often require routing to avoid obstacles between the splicing location and the end user, 1 i~erQby cErtity That u~~: paper is ceinc.
deposited with the United States Postal Sir price as Expn3ss Mail in an envelope addressed to: Assistant Commissioner for Patent, 'chingto, D.13. 20231, or~this date~.-~--r .l~'.f' U'l%'~a 6 /r-r ~_;p ~ate ~m R.,~ , .o. , , , ._ "~-,~ ., making it difficult to trench. This also typically results in forming numerous bends in the service conduit, causing cable placement tension.
Accordingly, there continues to be a need for a method for readily installing a plurality of utility services in a single trench, and specifically providing for an efficient method for installing a fiber optic cable and conduit system.
Summary of the Invention The present invention is a method for installing a fiber optic conduit system to a plurality of end users. The method includes the steps of: ( 1 ) excavating a unitary trench from a common location; (2) positioning a fiber optic cable and electric line in the unitary trench; (3) extending the fiber conduit toward a local access pedestal; (3) networking and distributing the fiber optic conduit at the pedestal toward a plurality of service access points; (4) splicing the fiber conduits at the access points toward a plurality of distribution boxes; and (5) splicing the fiber optic conduit at the distribution boxes toward a plurality of end users.
T'he method of the present invention provides an efficient distribution of fiber optic cable to an end user- by utilizing the least number of local access pedestals, service access points and distribution boxes, to reduce costs. In addition, the present method allows service runs between the end user and distribution boxes to, generally, be less than 500 ft. and have less than 360° of total turns. Keeping service runs, between the distribution boxes and end user, short reduces the 2 0 possibility of bends in the service runs. 'Those skilled in the art recognize that bends in fiber optic cable can cause undesirable cable placement tension. The present method also has other untold advantages over conventional methods used to install a fiber optic conduit system.
In a preferred method, the unitary trench includes a base and generally vertically extending side walls that are between about 48 and 66 inches deep and about 24 inches wide.
2 5 The preferred method also includes the steps of positioning the electrical utility line and the fiber optic conduit at the lowest elevation of the unitary trench and positioning the electrical utility line and the fiber optic conduit so that they are at the same depth within the unitary trench.
Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a method for installing, for distribution and networking, telecommunication dedicated utility lines. More particularly, this invention pertains to a method for installing a fiber optic conduit for distribution and networking to several end users.
Background of the Invention Trenching and the installation of utility lines such as water, sewer and gas service dates 1 o back to the nineteenth century. Those familiar with the more modern approaches to trenching and utility line installation will recognize that many of the conventional methods of installing these service lines has been carried over for use in installing modern services such as telecommunications and the like. In addition, often in the creation of a residential or commercial development area, the installation of utility lines, such as electrical, water, gas and 1. 5 telecommunications services can be a considerable portion of the overall development cost.
Various aspects of the installation of these services have been overlooked.
For example, consideration of new types (or as yet unknown) of services, and service area expansion have not traditionally been given the importance they demand. 'I"his is particularly the case in the initial planning stages of these residential and commercial development areas. As such, when new 2 o types of services become available or when service areas need to be expanded, traditional installation techniques may not provide the means or capabilities to do so in an efficient and cost effective manner, arid without undue disruption to existing services.
Several methods have been utilized to distribute utility lines and more specifically, fiber optic cable, from a distribution source to an end user. For example, traditional systems employ following a trench for electrical lines with separation at a higher trench elevation for fiber optic cable. Other methods utilize one major fiber optic, co-axial trunk conduit that is spliced into several service conduits that are eventually distributed to an end user.
However, because there was only one splicing location, loclg service conduit runs became necessary.
These long runs, however, often require routing to avoid obstacles between the splicing location and the end user, 1 i~erQby cErtity That u~~: paper is ceinc.
deposited with the United States Postal Sir price as Expn3ss Mail in an envelope addressed to: Assistant Commissioner for Patent, 'chingto, D.13. 20231, or~this date~.-~--r .l~'.f' U'l%'~a 6 /r-r ~_;p ~ate ~m R.,~ , .o. , , , ._ "~-,~ ., making it difficult to trench. This also typically results in forming numerous bends in the service conduit, causing cable placement tension.
Accordingly, there continues to be a need for a method for readily installing a plurality of utility services in a single trench, and specifically providing for an efficient method for installing a fiber optic cable and conduit system.
Summary of the Invention The present invention is a method for installing a fiber optic conduit system to a plurality of end users. The method includes the steps of: ( 1 ) excavating a unitary trench from a common location; (2) positioning a fiber optic cable and electric line in the unitary trench; (3) extending the fiber conduit toward a local access pedestal; (3) networking and distributing the fiber optic conduit at the pedestal toward a plurality of service access points; (4) splicing the fiber conduits at the access points toward a plurality of distribution boxes; and (5) splicing the fiber optic conduit at the distribution boxes toward a plurality of end users.
T'he method of the present invention provides an efficient distribution of fiber optic cable to an end user- by utilizing the least number of local access pedestals, service access points and distribution boxes, to reduce costs. In addition, the present method allows service runs between the end user and distribution boxes to, generally, be less than 500 ft. and have less than 360° of total turns. Keeping service runs, between the distribution boxes and end user, short reduces the 2 0 possibility of bends in the service runs. 'Those skilled in the art recognize that bends in fiber optic cable can cause undesirable cable placement tension. The present method also has other untold advantages over conventional methods used to install a fiber optic conduit system.
In a preferred method, the unitary trench includes a base and generally vertically extending side walls that are between about 48 and 66 inches deep and about 24 inches wide.
2 5 The preferred method also includes the steps of positioning the electrical utility line and the fiber optic conduit at the lowest elevation of the unitary trench and positioning the electrical utility line and the fiber optic conduit so that they are at the same depth within the unitary trench.
Pursuant to a preferred method, filler can be replaced below the electrical line and fiber optic conduit to form a flat trench base below the electrical utility line and fiber optic conduit.
Desirably, in the preferred method, the service access points are connected to three distribution boxes and the distribution boxes service up to about twenty end users. The preferred method can also include the steps of extending spare conduits from the, local access pedestal, service access points and distribution boxes to remote locations for possible future development or redevelopment.
Preferably, a trunk conduit is used for runs between the distribution source and the pedestal, between the pedestal and the access points and between the access points and 1 o distribution boxes while service conduits are used for runs between distribution boxes and the end users.
In addition, the preferred method advantageously includes the step of embedding PVC conduit sleeves in foundations of the end users. 'The conduit sleeves can be Located at twelve to eighteen inches away from electrical panels of the end users and rise eighteen inches above grade Brief Description of the Figures Further objects of the invention, taken together with additional features contributing thereto and advantages occurring therefrom, will be apparent from the following description of 2 0 the invention when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:
FIG. I is a layout view of an embodiment of a fiber optic system installed in accordance with the principles of the present invention, the system configured to distribute telecommunication signals through fiber optic cables routed from a distribution source to several end users by using a local access pedestal, several service access points and several distribution 2 5 boxes;
F1G. 2 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary trench illustrating the placement or position of fiber optic cables and conduits relative to other service lines and one another, within the trench;
Desirably, in the preferred method, the service access points are connected to three distribution boxes and the distribution boxes service up to about twenty end users. The preferred method can also include the steps of extending spare conduits from the, local access pedestal, service access points and distribution boxes to remote locations for possible future development or redevelopment.
Preferably, a trunk conduit is used for runs between the distribution source and the pedestal, between the pedestal and the access points and between the access points and 1 o distribution boxes while service conduits are used for runs between distribution boxes and the end users.
In addition, the preferred method advantageously includes the step of embedding PVC conduit sleeves in foundations of the end users. 'The conduit sleeves can be Located at twelve to eighteen inches away from electrical panels of the end users and rise eighteen inches above grade Brief Description of the Figures Further objects of the invention, taken together with additional features contributing thereto and advantages occurring therefrom, will be apparent from the following description of 2 0 the invention when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:
FIG. I is a layout view of an embodiment of a fiber optic system installed in accordance with the principles of the present invention, the system configured to distribute telecommunication signals through fiber optic cables routed from a distribution source to several end users by using a local access pedestal, several service access points and several distribution 2 5 boxes;
F1G. 2 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary trench illustrating the placement or position of fiber optic cables and conduits relative to other service lines and one another, within the trench;
FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a local access pedestal configured to receive one trunk conduit and send out several trunk conduits;
FIG. 4a and 4b illustrate an exemplary service access point configured to receive one trunk conduit and send out a plurality of trunk conduits. Fig. 4a being a perspective view thereof and Fig. 4b being a top view thereof;
FIG. Sa and Sb illustrate an exemplary distribution box configured to receive one trunk conduit and send out a plurality of service conduits. Fig. Sa being a perspective view thereof and F ig. 5b being a top view thereof;
FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a PVC sleeve embedded in an end user's foundation; and 1 o FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing the location of the PVC sleeve with respect to the end user's structure.
Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments While the present invention is susceptible of embodiment in various forms, there is shown in the drawings and will hereinafter be described a presently preferred embodiment with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered an exemplification of the invention and is not intended to limit the invention to the specific embodiment illustrated.
Referring now to the figures, and in particular to FIG. 1, there is shown a fiber optic cable and conduit system 10 that has been installed in accord with the principles of the present 2 o invention. In a present method, a common trench I 2 is used to route utility lines I 4 from several distribution sources 16 to end users 18. The utility lines 14 can include, but are not necessarily limited to, one or more gas distribution lines 14a, cable television lines 14b, fiber optic telecommunication lines 24 and electrical or power lines 26. It is anticipated that the application of the present technologies and future technologies will permit the transmission of all 2 5 telecommunication, including, for example cable television, along a single signal carrier or line.
Advantageously, this present method allows a contractor to install a fiber conduit system I 0 from a distribution source 16 to an end user ~ 8 during the development of an area or re-development of an area and also allows the contractor to plan for possible future expansion of the area.
_5_ As shown in FIG. 2, an exemplary common trench 12 is to be about 48 to about 66 inches in depth (D) (e.g., below grade) and about 24 inches in width (W).. In the exemplary common trench 12, all of the utility lines 14 are included within the single trench 12 having a base or bottom 20 and generally vertically extending side walls 22. Fiber optic cable 24 and electrical lines 26, if installed, would occupy the deepest layer of the trench. After installation of these lines, compacted soil filler (F) is returned below the electrical lines 26 and fiber optic cable 24 to provide a flat trench base 28. The flat trench base 28 assures that the lines 26 and cables 24 are routed on a level and uniform surface, which, with respect to fiber optic cables, reduces cable placement tension. It has been observed that fiber optic cable can be subjected to this tension 1 o when there are deviations in trench depth. After the filler (F) is returned below the electrical lines 26 and fiber optic cable 24, the trench 12 is filled with additional filler (F).
Additional utility lines 14 may then be installed above the electrical lines 26 and fiber optic cables 24 as desired. Those skilled in the art will recognize that any or all of these lines, as well as other utility services, may be necessary or desirable for installation within an area under development, or in an area that may be under re-development.
In a preferred system, electrical lines 26 and fiber optic cable 24 are routed in the same trench I 2 and are at the same depth within the trench 12. By utilizing the same trench for routing electrical lines and fiber optic cable, the present system advantageously eliminates the requirement for additional telecommunication facility installations and allows access to both 2 o electrical and telecommunication lines at the same location. The conventional approach invoked following the electrical trench with separation at a higher trench elevation for the fiber optic cables. When, as anticipated, the fiber facility becomes the only telecommunication means needed, the present system has the net effect of reducing work for the installation contractor vis-a-vis conventional methods; e.g., only one trench need be excavated.
2 5 As can be seen from FI(J. 2, a Gammon trench can be used to route gas 14a, water I 4b, electrical 26 and fiber optic telecommunications 24, including cable television lines, from a plurality of primary utility trenches 30 in a preferred system. It will of course be recognized that the tiber optic cable 24 can be used for all telecommunication services including, but not limited to telephone, cable television service, other data and voice communication signals including computer signal transmission. It is also anticipated that, given technological advances unforeseen, other, not presently known telecommunications or like signals can be transmitted via these cables.
As shown in FIG. 1, the lines 14 are routed from the primary trenches 30 to a receiving region 32 for the common trench 12. In a most preferred method, as shown in FIG. 1, the fiber optic cable 24 is routed through the common trench 12 to a local access pedestal ("LAP") indicated at 34. The LAP 34 is used to further distribute and route fiber optic cable 24. In the preferred system, the fiber optic cable '?4 is further distributed to a service access point ("SAP") 36. From the SAP 36, the fiber optic cable 24 is further routed to a distribution box 38, from which it is routed to an "end user" 18, such as a commercial or residential structure 40. In the most preferred system, each "end user" 18 has a network access panel ("NAP") 42 mounted on, for example, a wall of their commercial or residential structure 42.. The fiber optic run terminates at the NAP.
A preferred method utilizes trunk conduits 44 fox trunk runs between distribution sources 16 and LAPS 34, between LAPS 34 and SAPS 36, between two SAPs 36, between SAPS
36 and distribution boxes 38, between two distribution boxes 38 or sometimes, in the case of commercial buildings, between a distribution box 38 and a commercial building.
The trunk conduits 44 are generally formed from two inch db60 conduit or other previously installed 2 0 electrical conduits as may be found to be suitable. In this method, service conduit 46 can be used for service runs between distribution boxes 38 and end users 18. The service conduit 46 typically consists of three-quarter inch silicone lined flexible conduit.
Service conduit 46 is desirable since preformed bends are not required. In addition, a worker may roll a "bend", or form the service conduit 46 for insertion into an LAP box 34, SAP box 36 or distribution box 38 2 5 without the use of heat tools, even in sub-freezing weather. Furthermore, the service conduit 46 allows up to two thousand feet for service rucvs_ In the most preferred installation, however, as discussed below, the service runs are limited to five hundred feet or less.
.. CA 02348062 2001-05-17 An efficient method to distribute fiber optic cable 24 is realized when the fiber conduit system 10 of the preferred method is used. The LAP 34, SAP 36, and distribution boxes 38 are expensive fiber optic splicing, switching and networking devices. The cost of a fiber optic conduit system 10, therefore, can be greatly reduced by allowing the highest number of end users 18 to be reached while using the least number of LAPS 34, SAPs 36, and distribution boxes 38.
The present method of installing a fiber optic conduit system 10 does this by locating the LAPS 34, SAPs 36, and distribution boxes 38 in strategic locations, as will be described below.
In addition, the trunk conduits 44 and service conduits 46 utilized in the preferred method facilitate reducing costs by obviating the need for heat tools during installation.
Previous fiber conduit systems incorporated one major fiber optic, co-axial trunk conduit that was spliced into several smaller service conduits that were eventually distributed toward an end user. Because there was only one splicing location, the previous system required long service conduit runs from the splicing location to the end user. The long runs, however, would often have to be routed to avoid obstacles between the splicing location and the end user, making it difficult to trench, and also often resulting in several bends in the service conduit. As will be recognized by those skilled in the art, bends in the service conduit runs can cause undesirable cable placement tension.
In the most preferred method, an LAP box 34, such as the exemplary box illustrated in FIGS. 3, is installed. 'fhe I,AP box 34 is a major fiber networking device which receives a trunk 2 o conduit 44 from the distribution source 16 and distributes the conduit toward several SAPs 36 upstream. Preferably, a conduit spare 48 that extends to the project limits to account for anticipated or unanticipated development expansion is connected to the LAP box 34. Typical LAP boxes 34 include provisions for Emergency and routine rerouting and are also electrically controlled. To this end, the LAP box 34 has access to uninterruptible 120 volt electrical power.
2 5 As a result, in the most preferred method, the LAP box 34 is strategically located so it can be connected to a plurality of SAI' boxes 36 upstream and so that the box 34 has access to an uninterruptible 120 volt power source.
The method can further include installing several SAP boxes 36, as depicted in FIGS. 4a and 4b. The SAP boxes 36 receive a trunk conduit 44 from the LAP box 34 and distribute the conduit 34 to several distribution boxes 38. In addition, SAP boxes 36 used in carrying out the most preferred method preferably have one conduit spare 48 extending toward the project limits to account for possible area expansion. It should also be noted that SAP boxes 36 may not be required in early development projects but can be installed nonetheless to permit later planned or unplanned area expansion.
Generally, SAP boxes 36 are both fiber splicing locations and signal switching locations.
In addition, SAP boxes 36 are electrically controlled and have access to uninterruptible 120 volt 1 o electrical power. In the most preferred method, SAP boxes 36 are located so they can be connected to at least three distribution boxes 38 upstream and so that the boxes 36 have access to an uninterruptible 120 volt power source.
The present method, in addition, can include the installation of several distribution boxes 38, as shown in FIGS. Sa and Sb. F~ach distribution box 38 receives a trunk 44 or service conduit 1.5 46 from the SAP boxes 36 and distributes it to a plurality of end users 18. Typically, distribution boxes 38 are fiber splicing locations that do not have additional signal modifying equipment.
Rather, they are distribution and splicing locations that are capable of providing service to up to about twenty-six end users 18. Distribution boxes 38 used in carrying out the most preferred method, however, only service up to about twenty end users 18, and have a conduit spare 48 that 2 0 runs toward the project limits for possible development expansion. In addition, distribution boxes 38 are desirably situated so that they are relatively distant from customer service locations, while being central to a group of end users 18, so that the service runs from the distribution box 38 to the NAPs 42 are less than about S00 feet and so that service runs from the distribution box 38 to the NAPS 42 require less than 360° of total turns.
2 5 As depicted in FIG. 6, the most preferred method can also include embedding a one-and-one-half inch PVC conduit sleeve 50 in the end user's foundation 52 at least about twelve to about eighteen inches away from the end user's electrical panel 54, which conduit rises about eighteen inches above grade (G). 'The PVC'. conduit 50 facilitates later installation of a flexible service conduit 46. As shown in FIG. 7, the end user can then elect to install a NAP 42 at the end of the PVC conduit 50, at about eighteen inches above grade (G) and about twelve to about eighteen inches from the end user's electrical panel 54. The NAP 42 typically terminates the fiber service run and translates light signals into other signal media for use in the home such as a television, computer networking topology, and telephone when installed at the end user's structure.
From the foregoing it will be observed that numerous modifications and variations can be effectuated without departing from the true spirit and scope of the novel concepts of the present invention. It is to be understood that no limitation with respect to the specific embodiments 1 o illustrated is intended or should be inferred. The disclosure is intended to cover by the appended claims all such modifications as fall within the scope of the claims.
FIG. 4a and 4b illustrate an exemplary service access point configured to receive one trunk conduit and send out a plurality of trunk conduits. Fig. 4a being a perspective view thereof and Fig. 4b being a top view thereof;
FIG. Sa and Sb illustrate an exemplary distribution box configured to receive one trunk conduit and send out a plurality of service conduits. Fig. Sa being a perspective view thereof and F ig. 5b being a top view thereof;
FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a PVC sleeve embedded in an end user's foundation; and 1 o FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing the location of the PVC sleeve with respect to the end user's structure.
Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments While the present invention is susceptible of embodiment in various forms, there is shown in the drawings and will hereinafter be described a presently preferred embodiment with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered an exemplification of the invention and is not intended to limit the invention to the specific embodiment illustrated.
Referring now to the figures, and in particular to FIG. 1, there is shown a fiber optic cable and conduit system 10 that has been installed in accord with the principles of the present 2 o invention. In a present method, a common trench I 2 is used to route utility lines I 4 from several distribution sources 16 to end users 18. The utility lines 14 can include, but are not necessarily limited to, one or more gas distribution lines 14a, cable television lines 14b, fiber optic telecommunication lines 24 and electrical or power lines 26. It is anticipated that the application of the present technologies and future technologies will permit the transmission of all 2 5 telecommunication, including, for example cable television, along a single signal carrier or line.
Advantageously, this present method allows a contractor to install a fiber conduit system I 0 from a distribution source 16 to an end user ~ 8 during the development of an area or re-development of an area and also allows the contractor to plan for possible future expansion of the area.
_5_ As shown in FIG. 2, an exemplary common trench 12 is to be about 48 to about 66 inches in depth (D) (e.g., below grade) and about 24 inches in width (W).. In the exemplary common trench 12, all of the utility lines 14 are included within the single trench 12 having a base or bottom 20 and generally vertically extending side walls 22. Fiber optic cable 24 and electrical lines 26, if installed, would occupy the deepest layer of the trench. After installation of these lines, compacted soil filler (F) is returned below the electrical lines 26 and fiber optic cable 24 to provide a flat trench base 28. The flat trench base 28 assures that the lines 26 and cables 24 are routed on a level and uniform surface, which, with respect to fiber optic cables, reduces cable placement tension. It has been observed that fiber optic cable can be subjected to this tension 1 o when there are deviations in trench depth. After the filler (F) is returned below the electrical lines 26 and fiber optic cable 24, the trench 12 is filled with additional filler (F).
Additional utility lines 14 may then be installed above the electrical lines 26 and fiber optic cables 24 as desired. Those skilled in the art will recognize that any or all of these lines, as well as other utility services, may be necessary or desirable for installation within an area under development, or in an area that may be under re-development.
In a preferred system, electrical lines 26 and fiber optic cable 24 are routed in the same trench I 2 and are at the same depth within the trench 12. By utilizing the same trench for routing electrical lines and fiber optic cable, the present system advantageously eliminates the requirement for additional telecommunication facility installations and allows access to both 2 o electrical and telecommunication lines at the same location. The conventional approach invoked following the electrical trench with separation at a higher trench elevation for the fiber optic cables. When, as anticipated, the fiber facility becomes the only telecommunication means needed, the present system has the net effect of reducing work for the installation contractor vis-a-vis conventional methods; e.g., only one trench need be excavated.
2 5 As can be seen from FI(J. 2, a Gammon trench can be used to route gas 14a, water I 4b, electrical 26 and fiber optic telecommunications 24, including cable television lines, from a plurality of primary utility trenches 30 in a preferred system. It will of course be recognized that the tiber optic cable 24 can be used for all telecommunication services including, but not limited to telephone, cable television service, other data and voice communication signals including computer signal transmission. It is also anticipated that, given technological advances unforeseen, other, not presently known telecommunications or like signals can be transmitted via these cables.
As shown in FIG. 1, the lines 14 are routed from the primary trenches 30 to a receiving region 32 for the common trench 12. In a most preferred method, as shown in FIG. 1, the fiber optic cable 24 is routed through the common trench 12 to a local access pedestal ("LAP") indicated at 34. The LAP 34 is used to further distribute and route fiber optic cable 24. In the preferred system, the fiber optic cable '?4 is further distributed to a service access point ("SAP") 36. From the SAP 36, the fiber optic cable 24 is further routed to a distribution box 38, from which it is routed to an "end user" 18, such as a commercial or residential structure 40. In the most preferred system, each "end user" 18 has a network access panel ("NAP") 42 mounted on, for example, a wall of their commercial or residential structure 42.. The fiber optic run terminates at the NAP.
A preferred method utilizes trunk conduits 44 fox trunk runs between distribution sources 16 and LAPS 34, between LAPS 34 and SAPS 36, between two SAPs 36, between SAPS
36 and distribution boxes 38, between two distribution boxes 38 or sometimes, in the case of commercial buildings, between a distribution box 38 and a commercial building.
The trunk conduits 44 are generally formed from two inch db60 conduit or other previously installed 2 0 electrical conduits as may be found to be suitable. In this method, service conduit 46 can be used for service runs between distribution boxes 38 and end users 18. The service conduit 46 typically consists of three-quarter inch silicone lined flexible conduit.
Service conduit 46 is desirable since preformed bends are not required. In addition, a worker may roll a "bend", or form the service conduit 46 for insertion into an LAP box 34, SAP box 36 or distribution box 38 2 5 without the use of heat tools, even in sub-freezing weather. Furthermore, the service conduit 46 allows up to two thousand feet for service rucvs_ In the most preferred installation, however, as discussed below, the service runs are limited to five hundred feet or less.
.. CA 02348062 2001-05-17 An efficient method to distribute fiber optic cable 24 is realized when the fiber conduit system 10 of the preferred method is used. The LAP 34, SAP 36, and distribution boxes 38 are expensive fiber optic splicing, switching and networking devices. The cost of a fiber optic conduit system 10, therefore, can be greatly reduced by allowing the highest number of end users 18 to be reached while using the least number of LAPS 34, SAPs 36, and distribution boxes 38.
The present method of installing a fiber optic conduit system 10 does this by locating the LAPS 34, SAPs 36, and distribution boxes 38 in strategic locations, as will be described below.
In addition, the trunk conduits 44 and service conduits 46 utilized in the preferred method facilitate reducing costs by obviating the need for heat tools during installation.
Previous fiber conduit systems incorporated one major fiber optic, co-axial trunk conduit that was spliced into several smaller service conduits that were eventually distributed toward an end user. Because there was only one splicing location, the previous system required long service conduit runs from the splicing location to the end user. The long runs, however, would often have to be routed to avoid obstacles between the splicing location and the end user, making it difficult to trench, and also often resulting in several bends in the service conduit. As will be recognized by those skilled in the art, bends in the service conduit runs can cause undesirable cable placement tension.
In the most preferred method, an LAP box 34, such as the exemplary box illustrated in FIGS. 3, is installed. 'fhe I,AP box 34 is a major fiber networking device which receives a trunk 2 o conduit 44 from the distribution source 16 and distributes the conduit toward several SAPs 36 upstream. Preferably, a conduit spare 48 that extends to the project limits to account for anticipated or unanticipated development expansion is connected to the LAP box 34. Typical LAP boxes 34 include provisions for Emergency and routine rerouting and are also electrically controlled. To this end, the LAP box 34 has access to uninterruptible 120 volt electrical power.
2 5 As a result, in the most preferred method, the LAP box 34 is strategically located so it can be connected to a plurality of SAI' boxes 36 upstream and so that the box 34 has access to an uninterruptible 120 volt power source.
The method can further include installing several SAP boxes 36, as depicted in FIGS. 4a and 4b. The SAP boxes 36 receive a trunk conduit 44 from the LAP box 34 and distribute the conduit 34 to several distribution boxes 38. In addition, SAP boxes 36 used in carrying out the most preferred method preferably have one conduit spare 48 extending toward the project limits to account for possible area expansion. It should also be noted that SAP boxes 36 may not be required in early development projects but can be installed nonetheless to permit later planned or unplanned area expansion.
Generally, SAP boxes 36 are both fiber splicing locations and signal switching locations.
In addition, SAP boxes 36 are electrically controlled and have access to uninterruptible 120 volt 1 o electrical power. In the most preferred method, SAP boxes 36 are located so they can be connected to at least three distribution boxes 38 upstream and so that the boxes 36 have access to an uninterruptible 120 volt power source.
The present method, in addition, can include the installation of several distribution boxes 38, as shown in FIGS. Sa and Sb. F~ach distribution box 38 receives a trunk 44 or service conduit 1.5 46 from the SAP boxes 36 and distributes it to a plurality of end users 18. Typically, distribution boxes 38 are fiber splicing locations that do not have additional signal modifying equipment.
Rather, they are distribution and splicing locations that are capable of providing service to up to about twenty-six end users 18. Distribution boxes 38 used in carrying out the most preferred method, however, only service up to about twenty end users 18, and have a conduit spare 48 that 2 0 runs toward the project limits for possible development expansion. In addition, distribution boxes 38 are desirably situated so that they are relatively distant from customer service locations, while being central to a group of end users 18, so that the service runs from the distribution box 38 to the NAPs 42 are less than about S00 feet and so that service runs from the distribution box 38 to the NAPS 42 require less than 360° of total turns.
2 5 As depicted in FIG. 6, the most preferred method can also include embedding a one-and-one-half inch PVC conduit sleeve 50 in the end user's foundation 52 at least about twelve to about eighteen inches away from the end user's electrical panel 54, which conduit rises about eighteen inches above grade (G). 'The PVC'. conduit 50 facilitates later installation of a flexible service conduit 46. As shown in FIG. 7, the end user can then elect to install a NAP 42 at the end of the PVC conduit 50, at about eighteen inches above grade (G) and about twelve to about eighteen inches from the end user's electrical panel 54. The NAP 42 typically terminates the fiber service run and translates light signals into other signal media for use in the home such as a television, computer networking topology, and telephone when installed at the end user's structure.
From the foregoing it will be observed that numerous modifications and variations can be effectuated without departing from the true spirit and scope of the novel concepts of the present invention. It is to be understood that no limitation with respect to the specific embodiments 1 o illustrated is intended or should be inferred. The disclosure is intended to cover by the appended claims all such modifications as fall within the scope of the claims.
Claims (18)
1. A method for installing a fiber optic conduit system to the end user comprising the steps of:
excavating a unitary trench from a common location at about utility distribution sources, the unitary trench comprising a base and generally vertically extending side walls and being between about 48 and about 66 inches deep and about 24 inches wide;
positioning a plurality of utility lines in the unitary trench, including at least a fiber optic conduit;
extending the conduit toward a local access pedestal, the pedestal being located so that access to a 120 volt power source is available;
networking and distributing the fiber optic conduit at the pedestal toward a plurality of distribution boxes; and splicing the fiber optic conduit at the distribution boxes toward a plurality of end users.
excavating a unitary trench from a common location at about utility distribution sources, the unitary trench comprising a base and generally vertically extending side walls and being between about 48 and about 66 inches deep and about 24 inches wide;
positioning a plurality of utility lines in the unitary trench, including at least a fiber optic conduit;
extending the conduit toward a local access pedestal, the pedestal being located so that access to a 120 volt power source is available;
networking and distributing the fiber optic conduit at the pedestal toward a plurality of distribution boxes; and splicing the fiber optic conduit at the distribution boxes toward a plurality of end users.
2. The method for installing a fiber optic conduit system in accordance with claim 1 including the steps of: positioning an electrical utility line in the unitary trench, positioning the fiber optic conduit at the lowest elevation of the unitary trench, and positioning the electrical utility line and the fiber optic conduit so the electrical utility line and fiber optic conduit are at the same depth within the unitary trench.
3. The method for installing a fiber optic conduit system in accordance with claim 2 including the step of disposing tiller below the electrical line and fiber optic conduit forming a flat trench base below the electrical line and fiber optic cable.
4. The method for installing a fiber optic conduit system in accordance with claim 1 including the step of extending a spare conduit from the pedestal toward a remote location.
5. The method for installing a fiber optic conduit system in accordance with claim 4 including the step of extending at least one spare conduit from the distribution boxes toward a remote location.
6. The method for installing a fiber optic conduit system in accordance with claim 5 wherein the conduit positioned between the distribution source and the pedestal and between the pedestal and the distribution boxes are trunk conduits, and the conduit positioned between the distribution boxes and the end users are service conduits.
7. The method for installing a fiber optic conduit system in accordance with claim 6 including the step of embedding PVC conduit sleeves in foundations of the end users, the conduit sleeves located at least about twelve to about eighteen inches away from electrical panels of the end users and rising at least about eighteen inches above grade.
8. The method for installing a fiber optic conduit system in accordance with claim 1 wherein the distribution boxes service up to about twenty end users.
9. A method for installing a fiber optic conduit system to the end user comprising the steps of:
excavating a unitary trench from a common location at about utility distribution sources, the trench comprising a base and generally vertically extending side walls and being between about 48 and about 66 inches deep and about 24 inches wide;
positioning a plurality of utility lines in the unitary trench, including at least a fiber optic conduit;
extending the fiber conduit toward a local access pedestal, the pedestal being located so that access to a 120 volt power source is available;
networking and distributing the fiber optic conduit at the pedestal toward a plurality of service access points, the access points located so that access to a 120 volt power source is available;
splicing the fiber conduits at the access points toward a plurality of distribution boxes; and splicing the fiber optic conduit at the distribution boxes toward a plurality of end users.
excavating a unitary trench from a common location at about utility distribution sources, the trench comprising a base and generally vertically extending side walls and being between about 48 and about 66 inches deep and about 24 inches wide;
positioning a plurality of utility lines in the unitary trench, including at least a fiber optic conduit;
extending the fiber conduit toward a local access pedestal, the pedestal being located so that access to a 120 volt power source is available;
networking and distributing the fiber optic conduit at the pedestal toward a plurality of service access points, the access points located so that access to a 120 volt power source is available;
splicing the fiber conduits at the access points toward a plurality of distribution boxes; and splicing the fiber optic conduit at the distribution boxes toward a plurality of end users.
10. The method for installing a fiber optic conduit system in accordance with claim 9 including the steps of: positioning an electrical utility line within the unitary trench, positioning the electrical line and the fiber optic conduit at the lowest elevation of the unitary trench, and positioning the electrical utility line and the fiber optic conduit so that the electrical utility line and fiber optic conduit are at the same depth within the unitary trench.
11. The method for installing a fiber optic conduit system in accordance with claim including the step of replacing filler below the electrical line and fiber optic conduit to form a flat trench base below the electrical utility line and fiber optic conduit.
12. The method for installing a fiber optic conduit system in accordance with claim 9 including the step of extending at least one spare conduit from the pedestal toward a remote location.
13. The method for installing a fiber optic conduit system in accordance with claim 12 including the step of extending at least one spare conduit from at least one of the access points toward remote locations.
14. The method for installing a fiber optic conduit system in accordance with claim 13 including the step of extending at least one spare conduit from one of the distribution boxes toward remote locations.
15. The method for installing a fiber optic conduit system in accordance with claim 14 wherein the conduit between the distribution source and the pedestal, the conduit between the pedestal and the access points and the conduit between the access points and distribution boxes are trunk conduits, and the conduits between the distribution boxes and the end users are service conduits.
16. The method for installing a fiber optic conduit system in accordance with claim including the step of embedding PVC conduit sleeves in foundations of the end users, the conduit sleeves located at least about twelve to about eighteen inches away from electrical panels of the end users and rising at least about eighteen inches above grade.
17. The method for installing a fiber optic conduit system in accordance with claim 9 wherein the service access points are connected to about at least three distribution boxes and the distribution boxes service up to about twenty end users.
18. The method for installing a fiber optic conduit system in accordance with claim 16 wherein the service access points are connected to about at least three distribution boxes and the distribution boxes service up to about twenty end user.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US57324700A | 2000-05-18 | 2000-05-18 | |
| US09/573,247 | 2000-05-18 |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2348062A1 true CA2348062A1 (en) | 2001-11-18 |
Family
ID=24291215
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2348062 Abandoned CA2348062A1 (en) | 2000-05-18 | 2001-05-17 | Method for installing a fiber optic conduit system |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2348062A1 (en) |
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|---|---|---|---|---|
| US10571047B2 (en) | 2016-10-18 | 2020-02-25 | Cciip Llc | Microtrencher having a utility avoidance safety device and method of microtrenching |
| US10641414B2 (en) | 2016-10-18 | 2020-05-05 | Cciip Llc | Method of filling and sealing a microtrench |
| US10781942B2 (en) | 2018-01-24 | 2020-09-22 | Cciip Llc | Method of installing optical fiber and/or innerduct/microduct under a roadway surface using a fill mask to prevent fill material from bonding to the roadway surface |
| US10808379B1 (en) | 2019-08-28 | 2020-10-20 | Cciip Llc | Roadway access hole drill and a method of microtrenching using the drill to open an access hole in the roadway |
| US10808377B1 (en) | 2020-01-10 | 2020-10-20 | Cciip Llc | Microtrencher having an improved vacuum system and method of microtrenching |
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-
2001
- 2001-05-17 CA CA 2348062 patent/CA2348062A1/en not_active Abandoned
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| US10571047B2 (en) | 2016-10-18 | 2020-02-25 | Cciip Llc | Microtrencher having a utility avoidance safety device and method of microtrenching |
| US10641414B2 (en) | 2016-10-18 | 2020-05-05 | Cciip Llc | Method of filling and sealing a microtrench |
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| US10781942B2 (en) | 2018-01-24 | 2020-09-22 | Cciip Llc | Method of installing optical fiber and/or innerduct/microduct under a roadway surface using a fill mask to prevent fill material from bonding to the roadway surface |
| US10808379B1 (en) | 2019-08-28 | 2020-10-20 | Cciip Llc | Roadway access hole drill and a method of microtrenching using the drill to open an access hole in the roadway |
| US11761166B2 (en) | 2019-08-28 | 2023-09-19 | Cciip Llc | Roadway access hole drill and a method of microtrenching using the drill to open an access hole in the roadway |
| US11286640B2 (en) | 2020-01-10 | 2022-03-29 | Cciip Llc | Microtrencher having an improved vacuum system and method of microtrenching |
| US10808377B1 (en) | 2020-01-10 | 2020-10-20 | Cciip Llc | Microtrencher having an improved vacuum system and method of microtrenching |
| US11028556B1 (en) | 2020-02-03 | 2021-06-08 | Cciip Llc | Method of exposing a utility buried below a roadway and a bore hole cleaning device |
| US11629478B2 (en) | 2020-02-03 | 2023-04-18 | Cciip Llc | Method of exposing a utility buried below a roadway and a bore hole cleaning device |
| US11359340B2 (en) | 2020-06-19 | 2022-06-14 | Cciip Llc | Microtrenching system having a vacuum hose support and method of microtrenching |
| US11215781B1 (en) | 2020-11-30 | 2022-01-04 | Cciip Llc | Roadway access hole cutter having a utility avoidance safety device, method of cutting a hole in a roadway, method of cutting a horizontal hole under a roadway |
| US11815728B2 (en) | 2020-11-30 | 2023-11-14 | Cciip Llc | Roadway access hole cutter and method of cutting a square or rectangular roadway access hole |
| US11214450B1 (en) | 2021-03-11 | 2022-01-04 | Cciip Llc | Method of proofing an innerduct/microduct and proofing manifold |
| US11608234B2 (en) | 2021-03-11 | 2023-03-21 | Cciip Llc | Method of proofing an innerduct/microduct and proofing manifold |
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