Fiber Optic Cable Deployment Assembly with Pre-terminated Spool

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Solution Overview

Problem

The installation of fiber optic cables in fiber optic networks is cumbersome and time-consuming due to the need for multiple adapters, connectors, and specific splicing skills, especially when connecting end-user devices to network terminals in multi-unit buildings.

Innovation Solution

A fiber optic cable deployment assembly comprising a housing, a spool, and a component module with a pre-terminated fiber connector, allowing for easy optical coupling and rotation of the spool to manage cable length, along with a mounting system for secure installation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If traditional fiber optic cable installation methods are used with multiple adapters and connectors, then the fiber optic network can be deployed, but the installation process becomes cumbersome and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation speedVSAvoidinstallation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple fiber optic cables and their connectors into a single integrated distribution terminal unit. The terminal housing contains multiple adapters and fiber optic cables pre-assembled together, eliminating the need for installers to handle and configure multiple separate components during installation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The fiber optic cables are pre-terminated with connectors and pre-assembled with adapters within the distribution terminal before deployment. This preliminary configuration of connectors and cables eliminates the need for on-site splicing and adapter configuration, significantly reducing installation time and complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Adaptability or versatility

If installers configure specific connectors and adapters at the installation site, then the fiber optic cable can be connected to specific end-user devices, but the installer burden and installation time increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice compatibilityVSAvoidinstallation time
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The fiber optic distribution terminal is designed with multiple adapters that can accommodate different types of fiber optic connectors and end-user devices. This universal design allows a single terminal unit to serve multiple different device types without requiring separate configuration for each device.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

Multiple adapters and connectors are pre-configured within the terminal housing before deployment. The terminal is prepared with various adapter types already installed, enabling immediate connection to different end-user devices without requiring installers to configure adapters on-site.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Adaptability or versatility

If installers carry multiple adapters, connectors, and installation tools to the installation site, then various fiber optic connection requirements can be met, but the installer burden increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection flexibilityVSAvoidinstaller ease of operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple adapters, connectors, and fiber optic cables into a single integrated distribution terminal unit. Instead of requiring installers to carry and manage multiple separate components, all necessary connection elements are pre-combined in one portable terminal that can be deployed to various installation locations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS11899260B2Fiber optic cable deployment assemblies, systems, and methods
Publication Date: 2024.02.13 OPTERNA AM INC
  • US11899260B2 patent drawing
  • US11899260B2 patent drawing
  • US11899260B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An assembly for deploying fiber optic cable includes a housing defining a cavity and comprising a wall. The wall defines an opening allowing a fiber optic cable to pass. The assembly also includes a spool configured to store a portion of the fiber optic cable. The spool is rotatably coupled to the housing within the cavity of the housing. The assembly also includes a component module releasably coupled to the housing and comprising an adapter configured to optically couple the fiber optic cable to another fiber optic cable.