Modular Fiber Optic Terminal with Removable Splitter Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional fiber optic terminals are large, costly, and inflexible, requiring extensive installation and lacking modularity, which makes them inefficient for customizable and cost-effective deployment in distributed split fiber optic networks.
Innovation Solution
A small form factor fiber optic terminal with removable, configurable modules that include input and output adapters, allowing for customizable configurations and easy installation, such as pole or wall mounting, and the ability to dynamically adjust input and distribution capacity based on network demand.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional fiber distribution hubs are used to service multiple customers, then the number of customers serviced is improved, but the equipment size and installation cost worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The fiber distribution hub is divided into multiple modular slots that can independently accommodate different splitter modules. Each slot can be configured to service different numbers of customers (e.g., 24, 48, 72, or 96 customers), allowing the system to be segmented into functional units that can be selectively activated based on demand, thereby reducing the volume of equipment actually deployed while maintaining high adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic configurability where splitter modules can be added, removed, or reconfigured in individual slots without requiring changes to the entire hub structure. This dynamic approach allows the equipment capacity to match actual customer demand, preventing over-provisioning of fixed-capacity traditional hubs and reducing the volume of stationary equipment needed.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional fiber distribution hubs with fixed configurations are used, then maximum connection capacity is achieved, but customization and flexibility worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The hub is segmented into independent slots, each capable of holding different types of splitter modules (e.g., 1x24, 1x48, 1x72, 1x96 splitters). This segmentation allows customization of each slot's function while maintaining overall system coherence through standardized interfaces, enabling tailored configurations without increasing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The hub employs universal slot designs that can accommodate multiple types of splitter modules through standardized mechanical and optical interfaces. This multi-functionality allows a single hub structure to provide customized configurations for different customer densities and network requirements, achieving high adaptability without proportionally increasing device complexity.
3Productivity
If centralized split architecture with large fiber distribution hubs is used, then signal distribution to many customers is improved, but installation time and cost worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the fiber distribution function into modular splitter units that can be independently installed in standard telecom racks or mounted on existing infrastructure. This segmentation eliminates the need to install large, monolithic fiber distribution hubs, significantly reducing installation time and civil work requirements while maintaining the capability to service the same number of customers through distributed modular deployment.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from horizontal scaling (installing larger single hubs to serve more customers) to vertical scaling (stacking modular splitter units in existing rack infrastructure). This dimensional change allows signal distribution capacity to be increased by utilizing the vertical dimension of existing telecom infrastructure, thereby improving productivity without proportionally increasing installation time and cost.
4Adaptability or versatility
If distributed split architecture with multiple splitter locations is used, then network customization is improved, but asset stranding and cost efficiency worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The universal slot design with standardized interfaces allows the same modular splitter units to be deployed across multiple distributed locations while maintaining consistency in installation procedures and asset management. This universality enables network customization at multiple locations without requiring location-specific custom equipment, thereby improving cost efficiency by reducing asset stranding and simplifying inventory management.
Data Source
AI summary
A fiber optic terminal includes an enclosure defining an interior space having a plurality module holders and at least one module removably positioned in one of the plurality of module holders. Each removable module may include at least one input adapter and a plurality of output adapters. Each removable module may also include one or more splitters, cable storage components, pass-through components, or parking components. The fiber optic module may also include first and second arms extending from the front side of the body and a handle coupled to the first and second arms. The handle may be rotatable between a closed position and an open position, and may also be removable from the first and second arms when the handle is in the open position.