Expanded Two-Gang Electrical Box for Fiber Optic Bend Radius
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Solution Overview
Problem
Standard two-gang electrical boxes do not provide sufficient space for a suitable service loop diameter of fiber optic cables, leading to data loss and reduced transmission speed due to tight bends, which compromise internal reflectance and cause interference.
Innovation Solution
An expanded electrical box design with a larger internal enclosure behind a standard two-gang opening, allowing for a more generous bend radius and accommodating service loops of larger diameters without deforming the cables, while maintaining a conventional appearance and using standard components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of stationary object
If a standard two-gang electrical box is used, then the box fits within a standard opening and maintains conventional appearance, but the internal volume is insufficient to accommodate service loops with adequate bend radius
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical box utilizes the depth dimension (z-axis) to expand internal volume while keeping the front face (x-y plane) dimensions standard. The box extends rearward from the standard opening to create additional storage space for service loops, effectively solving the volume constraint without increasing the visible footprint or opening size.
2Ease of operation
If fiber optic cables are routed through standard electrical boxes, then installation is simplified, but tight bends cause data loss and reduced transmission speed
Solution Approach 1:
The extended depth of the box provides additional spatial dimension for cable routing, allowing service loops to achieve adequate bend radius without complicating the installation process. Cable clamps at the front maintain ease of cable entry while the extended rear space accommodates the required cable curvature for optimal optical transmission.
Solution Approach 2:
Service loops act as an intermediary element between the cable entry point and the television connection. The loops provide a buffer zone that absorbs tension and allows for adequate bend radius, mediating between the fixed mounting position and the movable television while preventing signal loss.
3Ease of repair
If service loops are stored in standard electrical boxes, then cable connections can be serviced, but the loops must be tightly bent which compromises internal reflectance
Solution Approach 1:
The extended depth creates additional spatial dimension that allows service loops to maintain larger diameters while still being stored within the electrical box. This extra space prevents tight bends that would compromise internal reflectance and cause signal interference, while still allowing cables to be accessed and serviced through the standard opening.
Data Source
AI summary
A wall-mounted enclosure having a standard forward-facing opening but also having an expanded enclosure behind the opening. The opening allows the use of conventional prior art components (such as cover plates). The expanded enclosure allows a more generous bend radius for the creation of a service loop in a fiber optic cable or similar component.