Flex Port Telecommunications Closure for Compact Fiber Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing telecommunications infrastructure faces congestion issues due to the need to accommodate both legacy and fiber optic network components, which often exceed the size and space limitations of pedestals, pits, and cabinets.
Innovation Solution
A fiber optic closure with a small, re-accessible form factor that utilizes external connectivity via flex ports with flexible telecommunications lines, allowing for compact installation while maintaining connectivity through a connector positioned outside the closure, and includes sealing mechanisms to ensure secure and compact operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If both legacy telecommunications components and fiber optic network components are implemented in the same pedestals, pits, cabinets, or closures, then desired bandwidth can be achieved, but congestion occurs in these spaces and the current infrastructure is unable to accommodate both types of equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the connectivity function from the closure body by using flex ports with connectors positioned outside the closure. This removes the space-consuming integrated connectors from the closure interior, allowing the closure to maintain a compact form factor while still providing fiber optic connectivity capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent moves the connector interface from the traditional integrated position within the closure to an external position on the closure surface. This dimensional repositioning allows the flexible telecommunications line to pass through the closure wall, enabling external connectivity without increasing the closure's internal volume requirements.
2Ease of operation
If connectors are directly integrated into the base or cover of the closure, then connectivity is provided, but the closure size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the connector from the closure interior and positions it on the exterior surface of the closure. This allows the flexible telecommunications line to connect to the closure from the outside, maintaining ease of connectivity operations while eliminating the space that would be required for integrated connectors within the closure body.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a flexible telecommunications line that can pass through the closure wall to connect external connectors to internal fiber optic components. This flexible connection method provides adequate connectivity without requiring rigid integrated connector structures, thereby maintaining a compact closure form factor.
3Volume of stationary object
If the closure has a small form factor, then it can be positioned in existing pedestals, pits, cabinets, or closures with legacy components, but connectivity may be limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal connectivity solution where the flex port with external connector can accommodate various fiber optic connection types and configurations. The external connector positioned on the closure surface provides versatile connectivity options while maintaining the compact closure size needed for installation in existing infrastructure spaces.
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
Enables the integration of fiber optic network components in existing infrastructure without increasing the closure's size, allowing for efficient bandwidth expansion and easy maintenance, while maintaining connectivity and sealing integrity.
Implementation Method 1
The supplemental sealing members are configured to seal the opening when the supplemental sealing members are in a compressed state
Data Source
AI summary
A telecommunications closure includes a base, a cover coupled to the base, and a first interior volume defined between the cover and the base. The cover includes a compartment having an opening and defining a second interior volume. The telecommunications closure also includes a flexible telecommunications line having a first end located within the first interior volume and a second end located outside of the first interior volume. The second end of the telecommunications line has a connector for coupling to other telecommunications lines. A portion of the flexible telecommunications line passes through the opening of the compartment. The telecommunications closure also includes at least one sealing member positioned in the second interior volume of the compartment to seal the flexible telecommunications line in the opening.