Modular Fiber Organizer with Segmented Storage Zones
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Solution Overview
Problem
Challenges in connecting FTTX networks to multi-dwelling units include limited access, space constraints in riser closets for cable routing and management, and accommodating multiple service providers, particularly in managing and distributing optical fibers efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A modular fiber organizer and distribution box with a planar base featuring a splitter holding section, slack and unterminated fiber storage, and a splice and splice tray holding section, including strain relief elements, cable support channels, and removable walls for flexible installation and access, allowing for efficient fiber management and splicing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional telecommunication boxes are used to protect exposed cable interiors, then cable protection is achieved, but fiber management efficiency deteriorates due to lack of organized storage for slack and unterminated fibers
Solution Approach 1:
The distribution box interior is segmented into distinct functional zones: a first recessed area for storing slack fibers with routing structures, a second recessed area for unterminated fibers with spool-type structures, and a third area for splice trays. This segmentation allows each type of fiber to be managed separately, improving organization and accessibility while maintaining cable protection.
2Adaptability or versatility
If fiber distribution boxes are installed in multi-dwelling units, then service distribution is enabled, but space constraints in riser closets worsen due to limited distribution space for cable routing and management
Solution Approach 1:
The distribution box utilizes vertical space by creating recessed areas that extend downward into the box structure, effectively using the third dimension (depth) to provide storage capacity. This allows comprehensive fiber management functionality to be achieved within a compact footprint suitable for constrained riser closet environments.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple service providers need to be accommodated, then service provider versatility is improved, but device complexity worsens due to need for multiple access points and management sections
Solution Approach 1:
The distribution box is designed with universal functionality to accommodate multiple service providers through a single unified structure. The box provides multiple access points and distinct management areas that can serve different providers simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate distribution boxes for each provider while maintaining organized management capabilities.
4Volume of stationary object
If slack fiber and unterminated fiber are stored together, then storage space utilization is improved, but fiber retrieval efficiency deteriorates due to inability to access specific fiber types without disturbing others
Solution Approach 1:
The storage area is divided into two separate recessed sections: one dedicated to slack fiber with routing structures and another for unterminated fiber with spool-type structures. This segmentation enables independent access to each fiber type without disturbing the other, improving retrieval efficiency while both sections are integrated within the same distribution box to maintain space utilization.
Data Source
AI summary
An organizer (100) for fiber cable management comprises a generally planar base (105) having a splitter holding section (110), a slack and unterminated fiber storage section (120), and a splice and splice tray holding section (150). The splitter holding section (110) is configured to optionally hold one or more fiber splitters. The slack and unterminated fiber storage section includes a slack storage region (130) having a plurality of fiber routing structures (146a, 146b) to support and retain slack fiber and an unterminated fiber storage region having one or more spool type structures (142) to support and retain unterminated fiber separate from the slack fiber. The splice and splice tray holding section is configured to optionally hold one of a first fiber splice insert (160) and a splice tray holder (170) configured to engage one or more splice trays. A distribution box (200) for distributing optical fibers for communications includes a base, a cover, and the organizer described above.