Compact Fiber Drop Terminals With Rotatable Adapters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fiber drop terminals (FDTs) are large, expensive, and inconvenient to install and service, with limited access to optical connections, making them unsuitable for multiple dwelling units (MDUs) where space and accessibility are critical.
Innovation Solution
The development of fiber drop terminals with a compact design, featuring movable adapters, a distribution cover for secure access, and rotatable brackets, allowing for convenient handling and secure optical connectivity while minimizing space requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If conventional large FDTs are used, then optical connectivity is provided, but the footprint and volume are large making installation difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The FDT is divided into a base unit and a removable cover assembly. The cover assembly containing adapters and connectors can be detached from the base, allowing the base to define a smaller footprint area while still providing access to optical connections when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapters are made movable relative to the base through hinge mechanisms, allowing them to be positioned for access and then returned to a compact position. This dynamic configuration enables the system to transition between a compact stored state and an accessible operational state.
2Ease of operation
If conventional FDTs are used, then optical connections are provided, but access to connectors is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The FDT is segmented into a base and a removable cover assembly. The cover assembly can be completely removed to provide full access to optical connections, or partially removed to provide limited access to specific connectors, reducing the need for complex internal structures.
Solution Approach 2:
Adapters are equipped with hinge mechanisms allowing them to rotate between a retracted position (when not in use) and an extended position (when access is needed). This dynamic movement provides convenient access without requiring complex external structures.
3Ease of manufacture
If conventional FDTs are used, then optical connectivity is provided, but production and maintenance costs are high
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the FDT into a base and removable cover assembly, manufacturing costs are reduced through modular production. The base can be manufactured separately and assembled with cover assemblies, allowing for more efficient production and lower costs while maintaining connection security through proper latch mechanisms.
4Ease of operation
If conventional FDTs are used, then optical connections are provided, but the device is difficult to transport and service
Solution Approach 1:
The FDT is divided into a relatively lightweight base and a removable cover assembly. This segmentation makes the overall device easier to transport and service, as the cover assembly can be removed and handled separately, reducing the weight and complexity of transport requirements.
Data Source
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AI summary
There is provided fiber drop terminals ("FDTs") and related equipment for providing selective connections between optical fibers of distribution cables and optical fibers of drop cables, such as in multiple dwelling units. The FDTs require relatively little area and/or volume while providing convenient connectivity for a relatively large number of optical connections. The FDTs include adapters for optically connecting the connectors, and the adapters of some FDTs are adapted to rotate, move, or otherwise be removed to provide convenient access for technicians. Some FDTs and the related equipment are adapted for use with microstructured optical fiber having preferred bend characteristics.