Fiber Optic Tray Assembly with Lever-Action Latches
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation of large numbers of optical fibers in data center intermediate distribution frames is time-consuming and labor-intensive, requiring efficient cabling infrastructure to reduce installation time and manual labor costs.
Innovation Solution
A tray assembly with a tray, retainers, and tray rails featuring lever-action latches and biasing members that allow for easy movement and secure positioning, enabling efficient routing and connection of fiber optic cables within an intermediate distribution frame.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional manual installation methods are used for organizing optical fibers in intermediate distribution frames, then installation precision and cable management quality are maintained, but installation time and labor costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The tray assembly incorporates self-aligning features where the tray body automatically positions itself relative to the distribution frame using guide rails and positioning pins, eliminating the need for manual alignment adjustments during installation
Solution Approach 2:
The tray assembly is pre-assembled with integrated cable management components, retention mechanisms, and positioning features before installation, allowing for rapid deployment without on-site assembly or adjustment
2Ease of operation
If manual cable routing and connection methods are used, then cable organization quality is maintained, but labor intensity and installation complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The tray assembly is divided into modular components including the tray body, cable management sections, retention mechanisms, and mounting features, allowing for easy installation and configuration without complex assembly procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The tray assembly incorporates flexible cable management features that adapt to different cable routing requirements, allowing cables to be easily routed and organized without rigid fixed-position constraints
3Reliability
If traditional fixed positioning methods are used for tray assemblies, then structural stability is maintained, but ease of reconfiguration and adaptability decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The tray assembly uses a dynamic mounting system with removable and repositionable features, allowing the tray to be easily installed, removed, and repositioned within the distribution frame while maintaining secure attachment during use
Solution Approach 2:
The tray assembly incorporates universal mounting features and standardized interfaces that allow it to be installed in various positions and configurations within different distribution frame types, enhancing adaptability without compromising structural stability
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The tray assembly significantly reduces installation time and labor by facilitating the efficient routing and connection of fiber optic cables, enhancing the speed and efficiency of data center cabling infrastructure setup.
Implementation Method 1
The tray rail has first and second biasing members for biasing the second end of the first and second latches, respectively, to an engaged position
Data Source
AI summary
A tray assembly for organizing cables includes a tray, at least one retainer coupled to the tray and configured to receive and retain an adapter assembly, and at least one tray rail coupled to the tray. The tray rail includes a first latch and a second latch that each have a first end and a second end. The tray rail also includes first and second biasing members for biasing the second end of the first and second latches, respectively, to an engaged position, wherein the respective first ends are movable to move the respective second ends to a disengaged position. A method of installing fiber optic cables using the tray is also disclosed.