Low Profile Bend Radius Limiter for High Density Fiber Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Optical fiber distribution systems face challenges in high-density applications with increased fiber counts and reduced space for routing, requiring improvements in density, ease of use, and cable management.
Innovation Solution
A bend radius limiter with a main body having a rounded outer surface and interior slot, featuring a connecting feature and cable retention members for secure installation on a fiber guide, allowing for flexible positioning and retention of optical fibers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If fiber counts are increased in high-density applications, then system capacity is improved, but space for routing fibers is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The bend radius limiter is divided into modular components including a main body, connecting features, and cable retention members that can be independently designed and assembled. This segmentation allows the device to be optimized for space efficiency while maintaining functionality for managing multiple fibers in high-density configurations
Solution Approach 2:
The device utilizes three-dimensional space efficiently by extending along the fiber guide in one dimension while providing radial and axial retention features in other dimensions. The connecting features extend radially inward from the interior surface to engage with the fiber guide extension member, creating a compact solution that manages fibers without requiring additional routing space
2Reliability
If cable retention features are added to secure fibers, then fiber management reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cable retention members are integrated into the main body structure rather than being separate components. The connecting features are formed as part of the main body, extending radially inward from the interior surface. This merging reduces the number of discrete parts while maintaining reliable fiber retention through the combined action of the main body and retention features
Solution Approach 2:
The main body serves multiple functions: it provides the structural framework, contains the cable retention members, provides the rounded outer surface for fiber guidance, and houses the connecting features for attachment to the fiber guide. This multi-functionality reduces overall device complexity while maintaining reliable fiber management
3Stability of the object's composition
If connecting features are designed to securely attach to fiber guide, then installation stability is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting features are designed as discrete elements that can be separately manufactured and then assembled to the main body. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while simplifying the overall manufacturing process. The connecting features can be produced using standard molding or machining processes and then attached to the main body through conventional joining methods
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting features are designed to engage dynamically with the fiber guide extension member during installation. The features extend radially inward from the interior surface and engage with the extension member to secure the bend radius limiter in place. This dynamic engagement provides stable installation while allowing for straightforward manufacturing using conventional techniques
Data Source
AI summary
A bend radius limiter adapted for installation on a fiber guide is disclosed. In one aspect, the bend radius limiter has a main body with a generally rounded outer surface and an interior surface that defines an interior volume. The main body is also configured with a first slot opening in the generally rounded outer surface that may optionally function as a first or second connecting feature. The bend radius limiter can also include a first connecting feature configured to retain the bend radius limiter onto the fiber guide. In one embodiment, the first connecting feature is located within the interior volume and is radially aligned with the first slot opening.