Fiber Optic Distribution Module Loop Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Fiber optic ribbons are sensitive to bending and twisting, making it difficult to store them efficiently in fiber optic distribution modules without damaging the fibers, especially in high-density data center environments where space is limited.
Innovation Solution
The fiber optic distribution module assembly features a tray with guiding walls and a releasable cover to enclose the fiber management area, allowing the fiber optic cable to be arranged in loops that minimize bending and twisting, with the use of ring-shaped spools to assist in winding and storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If fiber optic ribbons are stored in traditional linear configurations, then installation is straightforward, but the cables are prone to bending and twisting damage, especially in limited space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies curvature by winding fiber optic ribbons into loop configurations within the tray, allowing the cables to be stored in a curved rather than linear manner. This loop configuration enables the ribbons to be compacted into limited spaces while maintaining their structural integrity and preventing harmful bending or twisting, directly resolving the contradiction between cable protection and space constraints
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from traditional linear one-dimensional cable storage to a two-dimensional loop configuration within the tray. By arranging ribbons in loop shapes that extend in multiple directions rather than a single linear path, the system optimizes space utilization while protecting the cables from damage, addressing both the reliability and space constraints
2Area of stationary object
If fiber optic ribbons are wound into loops to save space, then storage efficiency improves, but the loops may twist and damage the fibers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetric loop configurations where the loops are arranged in specific non-uniform patterns within the tray. By creating loops of different sizes and orientations rather than identical symmetric loops, the design optimizes space utilization while ensuring that the fiber ribbons follow natural bending paths that prevent twisting and damage, thus resolving the contradiction between compact storage and cable protection
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses curved loop configurations that allow the fiber ribbons to be wound in a controlled manner. The loops are designed with appropriate curvature radii that prevent sharp bends or twists, enabling compact storage space utilization while maintaining fiber integrity. The curved geometry of the loops ensures that the ribbons remain protected during storage
3Productivity
If traditional cable storage methods are used, then installers have more freedom in routing, but the process is time-consuming and requires extensive training
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates pre-configured loop structures and guiding walls within the tray that are prepared in advance during manufacturing. These pre-formed elements guide installers through the cable routing process, eliminating the need for complex real-time decisions and reducing installation time. The preliminary arrangement of loops and guides simplifies the assembly process while maintaining cable protection, addressing the contradiction between installation speed and process complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces guiding walls and structured loop configurations as intermediary elements between the cable and the tray boundaries. These guiding structures facilitate the cable routing process by providing clear pathways and constraints, reducing the skill level required for installation while ensuring proper cable placement. The intermediaries simplify the overall assembly process and accelerate installation speed
Data Source
AI summary
A fiber optic distribution module assembly for installation in a fiber optic distribution rack includes a fiber optic distribution module with a tray extending from a fiber entry port to a fiber exit port and including a fiber management area. The fiber optic distribution module assembly further includes a fiber optic cable, such as a fiber optic ribbon, which is arranged within the fiber optic distribution module and extends from the fiber entry port via the fiber management area to the fiber exit port. The fiber optic cable arranged in loops whereby, in a top view onto the tray, at least one first loop extends from the fiber entry port towards the fiber exit port and is arranged clockwise and at least a second loop extends from the fiber exit port towards the fiber entry port and is arranged counterclockwise, or vice versa.