Fiber Optic Closure Tray Layout for Bend Radius Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for improved designs in optical fiber splice closures that provide efficient storage and management of excess fiber lengths while maintaining signal integrity and preventing damage, as existing solutions do not adequately address the challenges of fiber bend radius and signal loss.
Innovation Solution
A telecommunications enclosure with a management unit featuring a pivotable rear tray and a support infrastructure that includes a detent pivot arrangement and guide pivot arrangement, allowing for secure storage and management of excess fiber lengths, and a mechanical connection interface for easy interlocking and releasing of optical components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If excess fiber is stored in the closure, then fiber splicing operation can be performed, but the fiber bend radius may fall below the minimum bend radius causing damage or signal loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a pivotable tray that can rotate between a first position (for splicing operation) and a second position (for secure storage). This dimensional change allows the system to transition between operational and storage states, solving the contradiction by providing both ease of operation during splicing and reliability during storage through proper fiber positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The pivotable tray provides dynamic adaptability, allowing technicians to position the tray in different orientations based on operational needs. When in the first position, it facilitates easy access for splicing; when in the second position, it secures the fiber at appropriate bend radii. This dynamic positioning resolves the contradiction between operational ease and signal integrity.
2Reliability
If a sealed enclosure is used to protect optical components, then environmental protection is improved, but access to components for maintenance and splicing becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The sealed enclosure is segmented into multiple access points: a main access door for general component access and a specific access arrangement for the pivotable tray. This segmentation allows maintenance personnel to access components while maintaining the overall sealed environment, resolving the contradiction between environmental protection and ease of access.
Solution Approach 2:
The pivotable tray acts as an intermediary mechanism that can be accessed through the sealed enclosure. It provides a controlled access path for fiber splicing operations without compromising the seal of the main enclosure, thus maintaining environmental protection while enabling operational access.
3Reliability
If traditional cable sealing arrangements are used, then cable entry sealing is provided, but they do not provide adequate fiber management and organization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the cable sealing arrangement with the pivotable tray assembly. The tray is integrated into the sealed enclosure structure, combining the sealing function with fiber management functionality. This integration resolves the contradiction by providing both reliable cable sealing and effective fiber organization within a unified structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The pivotable tray serves multiple functions: it provides fiber storage, maintains proper bend radius, facilitates splicing operations, and organizes excess fiber. By making the sealing arrangement multi-functional, the patent resolves the contradiction between providing basic sealing and enabling comprehensive fiber management.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a sealed closure having modular components, enhanced cable sealing, modular connection interfaces, enhanced cable anchoring and enhanced fiber management.