Unitary Fiber-Optic Module Tray With Guide Rails
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current fiber-optic trays and drawers are complex and expensive, with limited configurations that hinder the efficient insertion and alignment of fiber-optic modules and technician access, making fiber-optic connections slower to establish.
Innovation Solution
A drawer design for fiber-optic equipment featuring unitary side guides with channels to engage tray tongues and flexures, allowing for multiple tray positions and easy locking mechanisms to facilitate faster and more precise module placement and connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If traditional multi-part trays and drawers are used, then structural strength and stability are maintained, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate components (tray body, side guides, locking mechanisms, and support structures) into a single unitary tray assembly. The tray is formed as one integrated piece with built-in side guides and locking features, eliminating the need for separate drawer components and reducing assembly complexity while maintaining structural integrity through the unified design.
2Ease of operation
If traditional tray configurations are used, then basic module support is provided, but insertion and alignment of fiber-optic modules becomes difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces alignment rails and guide features as intermediary elements between the tray and fiber-optic modules. These guide rails with precision-machined surfaces and alignment features facilitate smooth insertion and precise positioning of modules into the tray, reducing insertion difficulty and time without requiring complex external alignment tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The tray is pre-configured with precisely positioned guide rails, alignment features, and locking mechanisms during manufacturing. These preliminary structural preparations enable technicians to simply slide modules into place without requiring complex alignment procedures or multiple adjustment steps, significantly reducing connection establishment time.
3Ease of operation
If traditional drawer designs are used, then modules can be accessed, but technician access and maneuverability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic drawer mechanism with smooth-running rollers and guide rails that allow the tray to easily slide in and out of the drawer assembly. The design incorporates low-friction movement surfaces and flexible positioning capabilities, enabling technicians to quickly access and reposition modules without complex manual manipulation or heavy lifting requirements.
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2A
AI summary
A unitary tray for operably supporting a fiber-optic module is disclosed. The tray includes a guide base and guide rails that define a central channel sized to accommodate the fiber-optic module. The fiber-optic module can be slid into a central module position from the back or the front of the tray, and then locked in the central module position. Opposing unitary side guides with slotted channels can be used to form a drawer that holds one or more of the trays. The drawers can be used to form fiber-optic equipment such as an interconnection unit that supports the modules and that allows for conveniently making multiple optical fiber interconnections.