Adaptable Connection Enclosure Interchangeable Blocks
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Solution Overview
Problem
The inefficiency and cost of rewiring homes with fiber optics, along with the unsightly and code-conflicting installation of coax splitters, necessitates a versatile and adaptable connection solution for various cabling scenarios, including coaxial, fiber optic, and CAT5 cabling.
Innovation Solution
An adaptable connection enclosure (ACE) that is stackable with existing enclosures, featuring interchangeable connection blocks and adapter plates, allowing for seamless transitions between different cabling types without altering the footprint, and optionally includes a fiber splice tray for field repairs and expansions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If coax splitters are hung from the outside wall at the point of connection, then the installation is simple and cost-effective, but the appearance is unsightly and conflicts with housing code
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary device (enclosure housing) that contains the coax splitter and other cabling components. This mediator allows the splitter to remain functional while being hidden from external view, thus maintaining installation simplicity while eliminating the aesthetic problem of exposed splitters hanging on exterior walls.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a nested structure where the coax splitter, connection blocks, and other components are contained within an enclosure housing. This nesting approach allows multiple functional elements to be organized compactly within the housing, keeping the installation simple while presenting a clean, code-compliant exterior.
2Reliability
If fiber optic cabling is installed throughout every room in a home, then true fiber to the home is achieved, but the rewiring cost and complexity increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal connection enclosure that can accommodate multiple cabling types (coaxial, fiber optic, CAT5) through interchangeable connection blocks. This multi-functional design allows the same physical infrastructure to support different communication technologies, enabling fiber optic performance where needed while maintaining compatibility with existing coax and CAT5 installations, thereby avoiding complete rewiring.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the cabling system into modular components: the enclosure housing remains fixed, while connection blocks specific to each cabling type (coax, fiber, CAT5) can be independently installed or removed. This segmentation allows fiber optic connection blocks to be installed only in specific locations where fiber service is provided, rather than requiring fiber cabling throughout the entire home.
3Adaptability or versatility
If connector blocks are made interchangeable within the enclosure, then adaptability to different cabling types is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal enclosure housing that can accommodate multiple types of connection blocks (coaxial, fiber optic, CAT5) through standardized mounting mechanisms. This universal design provides adaptability to different cabling types while keeping the base enclosure structure simple and consistent, avoiding the need for different enclosure designs for each cabling type.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a dynamic configuration where connection blocks can be easily installed, removed, and replaced within the enclosure based on the specific cabling requirements. This dynamic adaptability allows the system to flexibly accommodate different cabling types without permanently altering the enclosure structure, maintaining simplicity while providing versatility.
Data Source
AI summary
An adaptable connection enclosure (ACE) is disclosed. The ACE can employ a number of different connector blocks thereby enhancing versatility to address a myriad of different connection scenarios. In aspects, the ACE can support coax, coax/fiber, coax/CAT5, fiber/CAT5, fiber or CAT5 connector blocks without altering the ACE housing. In accordance therewith, adapter plates can be employed to effect the interchangeability.