Fiber Optic Module Rail Profiles for Flexible Patch Panel Configuration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fiber optic patch panels lack flexibility in accommodating different sizes and configurations of fiber optic modules, requiring complete replacement of the mounting frame or trays for configuration changes, limiting the ability to combine modules arbitrarily.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of fiber optic modules with complementary rail profiles that allow direct interlocking and coupling, eliminating the need for predefined chassis or mounting frames, enabling flexible arrangement and combination of modules without additional structures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a mounting frame with specific partitioning is used to receive fiber optic modules, then the modules can be attached via pins to the mounting frame, but the entire mounting frame has to be replaced if the configuration of fiber optic modules needs to be changed
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting frame is divided into multiple trays, each tray being a separate, interchangeable component. This segmentation allows individual trays to be removed and replaced without affecting the entire mounting structure, enabling flexible reconfiguration of fiber optic modules while maintaining ease of manufacture through standardized tray designs
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a fixed, static mounting frame configuration to a dynamic system where trays can be easily inserted and removed. The trays are designed with movable components that allow for quick reconfiguration of module arrangements without requiring replacement of the entire mounting frame structure
2Ease of operation
If rail profiles are used to guide modules into the patch panel, then attachment and operator comfort are improved, but the chassis and trays still lack flexibility for modifying fiber optic module arrangements
Solution Approach 1:
The chassis is segmented into multiple interchangeable trays that can be independently configured. Each tray maintains the beneficial rail profile guidance for operator comfort while the modular tray structure enables flexible reconfiguration of module arrangements by simply replacing or repositioning individual trays rather than the entire chassis
3Adaptability or versatility
If the chassis and trays are completely exchanged for different layouts, then different configurations are achieved, but the process is complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The chassis is divided into multiple independent trays that can be individually replaced or reconfigured. This segmentation reduces the time required for configuration changes from requiring complete chassis exchange to only needing replacement of specific trays, significantly reducing downtime while maintaining adaptability for different module layouts
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple trays with different module configurations are pre-prepared and kept ready for quick interchange. This preliminary preparation of alternative tray configurations enables rapid switching between different module arrangements without requiring complex reconfiguration procedures or complete chassis replacement
Data Source
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AI summary
A fiber optic module (10) for installation within a patch panel (1), the fiber optic module (10) comprising a first outer wall (12) with a first rail profile (13) on its outside surface, a second outer wall (14) with a second rail profile (15) on its outside surface, and at least one optical connector (11). The first outer wall (12) and the second outer wall (14) run parallel to each other. The at least one optical connector (11) is arranged between the first outer wall (12) and the second outer wall (14). The first rail profile (13) and the second rail profile (15) are complementary to each other such that the fiber optic module (10) may be coupled to an adjacent fiber optic module (10), wherein the first rail profile (13) of the fiber optic module (10) may be coupled to the second rail profile (15) of the adjacent fiber optic module (10).