Fiber Optic Terminal Integrating Radio Access Node for Small Cell Deployment
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Solution Overview
Problem
The deployment of outdoor small cells is hindered by limited installation locations and power availability, coupled with regulatory restrictions, which complicates the expansion of fiber optic networks for enhanced broadband communications.
Innovation Solution
The integration of radio access nodes within fiber optic terminals, which utilize the terminal's fiber backhaul for central office connectivity and can access power from within the terminal, optimizing space usage and reducing deployment costs and regulatory burdens.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If outdoor small cells are deployed to provide radio-frequency connectivity, then wireless coverage and capacity are improved, but installation location availability and power accessibility deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the small cell radio access node with the fiber optic terminal into a single integrated unit. The small cell is mounted within or on the terminal enclosure, sharing the same physical space and power source. This merging eliminates the need for separate installation locations and power connections for the small cell, directly resolving the contradiction between providing wireless coverage and finding suitable installation locations with power availability.
2Productivity
If multiple fiber closures are deployed to expand fiber optic network capacity, then network reach and service capacity are improved, but installation complexity and maintenance requirements deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The fiber optic terminal is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as a fiber network closure for optical signal distribution and simultaneously houses a small cell radio access node for wireless communications. This multi-functionality allows the same infrastructure to provide both fiber optic network expansion and wireless service deployment, thereby increasing network capacity without proportionally increasing installation and maintenance complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If small cells are placed near users for optimal coverage, then line of sight and coverage quality are improved, but regulatory restrictions and negotiation requirements deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the small cell into the fiber optic terminal that is already deployed at subscriber premises, the system provides near-user wireless coverage without requiring additional permits or negotiations. The fiber terminal location already has regulatory approval for installation, so adding the small cell function leverages existing permissions while maintaining optimal coverage quality.
Data Source
AI summary
A fiber optic terminal having a radio access node for providing wireless connectivity within a coverage area. The fiber optic terminal can also include active modules capable of gathering data and reporting the data to a network operator. The active modules can be accommodated at the exterior of a terminal and may gather data such as information relating to the environment of the terminal. Active terminals can also be accommodated within the terminal and can gather and/or process information such as an operating status of a network, terminal operating status, and other information.