Behind-the-wall fiber spool module with hinged storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fiber optic network installations at user premises require a visual impact reduction by hiding fiber storage modules, as current solutions do not effectively store slack lengths of optical fibers along exposed surfaces like walls or moldings without being visible.
Innovation Solution
A fiber spool module is designed to be installed behind drywall, using a utility box and adapter plates with a hinged spool plate and cover to securely store slack fiber lengths, allowing them to be routed and connected to optical devices without visible components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a fiber storage module is mounted on a wall inside the premises, then the slack fiber can be stored and connected to optical devices, but the module creates a visual impact that occupants may find adverse
Solution Approach 1:
The fiber storage module is extracted from the visible interior space and relocated to the wall cavity behind drywall. The adapter plate is mounted within the wall opening, with only the cover visible from the front, while the spool and connector components are hidden behind the drywall surface, eliminating the visual impact while maintaining storage functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The fiber storage module is nested within the existing wall cavity structure. The adapter plate fits into the wall opening, and the spool assembly is contained within the adapter plate housing, creating a compact nested arrangement that utilizes the wall space efficiently while keeping all components out of the direct field of view of occupants.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the spool plate is made accessible for storing excess fiber lengths, then fiber routing flexibility is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spool plate is designed with a hinge connection to the adapter plate, allowing it to rotate between a stored position (flush with the adapter plate) and an accessible position (perpendicular to the adapter plate). This dynamic mechanism enables the spool plate to provide fiber routing flexibility when needed while maintaining a compact, low-complexity appearance when not in use.
Data Source
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AI summary
A module for storing optical fiber at user premises. A fiber supply spool has at least one winding section for storing a length of fiber to be routed at the premises. A spool plate has a base with retaining fingers for mounting the supply spool for rotation, and a hinge pin supported between the ends of two arms extending from the base. An elongated adapter plate is arranged for fastening over an opening cut in a drywall at the premises. The adapter plate includes at least one hinge mount for seating the hinge pin on the spool plate for swiveling movement. The spool plate can swivel on the adapter plate together with the mounted spool between a position where fiber is unwound from the spool for routing at the premises, and a position where the spool with remaining fiber is passed through the opening to be stored behind the drywall.