Adjustable Height Fiber Optic Reel With Locking Tabs
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for flexible and customizable fiber distribution and storage solutions that can accommodate different lengths of optical fiber cables in fiber optic networks, particularly in 'fiber to the premises' and 'fiber to the home' systems, where exact cable lengths are often unknown and exposure to weather conditions requires waterproof configurations.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable height reel system comprising interlocking pieces with tabs and pins, forming a cylindrical structure, which allows for two discrete height settings and includes a slack storage tray to manage excess fiber, enabling flexible deployment and protection of optical fibers within enclosures such as wall boxes and distribution cabinets.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed height reel designs are used, then manufacturing and installation are simplified, but adaptability to different fiber lengths and configurations is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The reel height is made adjustable through a dynamic mechanism where the reel assembly can be positioned at multiple discrete heights along vertical guide rails. The height adjustment mechanism includes movable support structures with engagement features that allow the reel to be locked at predetermined height positions, enabling adaptation to different fiber lengths while maintaining structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The reel system is divided into modular components including the reel assembly, guide rails, height adjustment mechanism, and locking features. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each component and enables flexible configuration to accommodate various fiber deployment scenarios without redesigning the entire system.
2Reliability
If excess fiber is not properly managed, then the installation process is simpler, but fiber protection and organization are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The slack storage tray is integrated within the reel assembly structure, with the tray nested inside or attached to the reel housing. This nesting approach allows excess fiber to be stored in an organized manner within the existing reel footprint, providing fiber protection without significantly increasing the overall device volume or structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The height adjustment mechanism and slack storage functionality are combined into a single integrated assembly. The slack storage tray is positioned to utilize the same structural support elements as the height adjustment mechanism, merging multiple functions into one cohesive unit that reduces overall system complexity while providing both height adjustability and fiber storage capabilities.
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustable height optical fiber cable reel comprises a first piece having a first base plate and a first tab protruding from the first base plate, the first tab having a first opening and a second opening, a second piece having a second base plate and a second tab protruding from the second base plate, the second tab having a pin. The pin is configured to engage the first opening to lock the adjustable height reel at a first height, and to engage the second opening to lock the adjustable height reel at a second height. The adjustable height reel may also be coupled to a slack storage tray. Optical fiber enclosures may also be configured with adjustable height reels with optional slack storage trays.