Fiber Optic Cassette Movable Latch Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Fiber optic network designers face space constraints in small cabinets and data centers due to the high number of fiber optic terminations required for modern, high-bandwidth networks, necessitating a more space-efficient solution for fiber optic terminations.
Innovation Solution
A fiber optic cassette designed to be inserted between two spaced apart walls of an optical distribution box, featuring a movable latch with angled teeth and spring-loaded shelves for secure mounting without engaging diagonal tracks, allowing for easy installation and alignment with the mounting walls.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If fiber optic cassettes are mounted using traditional track-and-rail systems with diagonal tracks, then the mounting structure provides secure attachment, but the installation complexity and alignment difficulty increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the cassette from the traditional diagonal track system and provides it with self-contained mounting ears that have integrated latch mechanisms. This eliminates the need for the complex diagonal track infrastructure, allowing direct wall mounting while maintaining secure attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting ears serve as intermediary components between the cassette and the wall mounting surface. These ears incorporate latch mechanisms that mediate the connection, providing secure mounting without requiring the complex diagonal track system.
2Area of stationary object
If fiber optic cassettes are mounted at oblique angles using diagonal tracks, then space utilization is optimized, but the alignment precision and installation time are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanisms in the mounting ears are designed to be movable during installation, allowing the installer to open the latch, position the cassette, and then secure the latch. This dynamic mechanism accommodates positioning adjustments while ensuring final secure attachment, eliminating the need for precise pre-alignment to diagonal tracks.
3Productivity
If dense fiber optic terminations are implemented to increase bandwidth capacity, then network performance is improved, but the available space in cabinets and data centers is depleted
Solution Approach 1:
The fiber optic termination system is segmented into modular cassettes that can be independently mounted on wall surfaces. This segmentation allows for distributed termination points throughout the cabinet rather than requiring concentrated space, effectively increasing the usable termination capacity within the same cabinet volume.
4Stability of the object's composition
If traditional mounting systems with diagonal tracks are used, then structural stability is maintained, but the ease of operation during installation and maintenance is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting ears incorporate self-contained latch mechanisms that allow the cassette to be easily attached and detached by the installer without requiring specialized tools or complex alignment procedures. The latch system provides automatic engagement and secure holding, making the system self-servicing during installation and maintenance operations.
Data Source
AI summary
A fiber optic cassette includes an enclosure having first and second generally planar outer walls, top and bottom walls, a rear wall, a plurality of standardized fiber optic connectors, and a movable latch that is anchored to enclosure. The movable latch includes a roof section that extends over the top wall and a pair of angled teeth that extend downwards from the roof section towards the bottom wall of the enclosure. The movable latch is configured to move between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the roof section and the angled teeth are vertically spaced apart from the top wall. In the second position, the roof section is flush against the top wall, the first and second teeth overhang over the first and second outer walls, and the pair of angled teeth are disposed at an oblique angle relative to the bottom wall.