Optical Fiber Distribution Tray with Movable Cover
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical fiber distribution systems face challenges in density, ease of use and mounting, and cable management, which hinder efficient telecommunications distribution.
Innovation Solution
The system incorporates a building block element with a chassis and a movable tray, featuring a slide mechanism for horizontal movement, hingedly mounted frame members, and a cover that protects the splice frames and prevents accidental closure, along with advanced cable management structures and retention features.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional fixed rack mounting system is used, then the structure is simple and reliable, but the density and ease of use are reduced due to limited accessibility and cable management flexibility
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into modular rack units with individual trays for different fiber distribution functions (termination, splicing, patching). Each tray can be independently accessed and managed, improving ease of operation while maintaining overall system organization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces vertical stacking of rack units with front-accessible trays, transforming the traditional side-access or rear-access configuration. This dimensional change allows operators to access equipment from the front at multiple height levels, significantly improving ease of use without increasing horizontal space requirements.
2Quantity of substance
If more fiber distribution equipment is packed into the rack, then the density is improved, but cable management becomes more difficult and complex
Solution Approach 1:
Cable management is segmented into dedicated channels and guides within each tray, separating different cable types (feeders, distribution cables, patch cables) into distinct pathways. This segmentation allows high density equipment packing while maintaining organized cable routing and reducing management complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediate cable guides, tension members, and management structures positioned between equipment and cable entry/exit points. These intermediaries facilitate cable routing through dense equipment arrangements, preventing tangling and simplifying maintenance operations.
3Ease of operation
If the tray is made movable for easy access, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability and protection of equipment may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The tray is designed with smooth sliding mechanisms on rails, allowing it to move dynamically between closed (protected) and open (accessible) positions. This dynamic design maintains equipment protection when closed while providing easy front access when opened, resolving the contradiction between reliability and ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The tray incorporates self-latching mechanisms and alignment features that automatically engage when closed, providing reliable equipment protection without requiring additional locking steps. The self-service features ensure consistent positioning and protection while maintaining operational simplicity.
Data Source
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AI summary
An optical fiber distribution element includes a chassis defining an interior; a movable tray slidably movable from within the chassis to a position at least partially outside the chassis, the tray defining a front end and a rear end; a slide mechanism which connects the movable tray to the chassis; at least one hingedly mounted frame member within the tray which hinges about an axis perpendicular to the direction of movement of the movable tray; and a cover mounted adjacent the rear end of the tray and movable between an access position and an operational position when the tray is in the open position, only the operational position of the cover allowing the tray to move from the open position to the closed position, the access position allowing access to the at least one hingedly mounted frame member, and the cover in the access position preventing the tray from moving from the open to the closed position.