Modular Hybrid Closure for Copper-to-Fiber Network Expansion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current telecommunications box designs lack flexibility and scalability to accommodate evolving network demands from copper to fiber transmission, and do not efficiently manage mixed connection types and increasing capacity needs.
Innovation Solution
A hybrid cable distribution system with a box design that initially handles copper signals and can later accommodate fiber signals, featuring a copper-splitter for signal splitting, fan-out devices, and modular connectors, allowing for point-to-point or split connections, and enabling easy expansion by adding more fan-out devices or interconnecting additional boxes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional box design is used for copper signal handling, then the box can currently serve copper transmission needs, but it lacks the ability to accommodate future fiber transmission and evolving network demands
Solution Approach 1:
The box is designed with universal mounting structures and cable management systems that can accommodate both copper coaxial cables and fiber optic cables. The box includes standardized mounting locations for splitters and adapters that work with both signal types, allowing the same physical infrastructure to serve multiple transmission technologies over time.
Solution Approach 2:
The box is pre-configured with mounting locations, cable access points, and structural features that anticipate future fiber installation. This includes pre-installed adapter mounts, cable management spaces, and sealing structures that are ready for fiber optic components, eliminating the need for structural modifications when transitioning from copper to fiber.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the box is designed to handle only copper signals currently, then the design is simple and cost-effective, but it cannot later be used for fiber signals without redesign
Solution Approach 1:
The box incorporates universal mounting brackets, standardized cable entry points, and modular internal structures that can accommodate both copper splitters and fiber optic components. The sealing system and cable management features are designed to work with both cable types, allowing a single manufacturing process to produce boxes suitable for both current copper and future fiber deployments.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the box uses fixed connection types, then the installation is straightforward, but it cannot accommodate mixed connection types (point-to-point and split connections) flexibly
Solution Approach 1:
The box internally segments different connection types into separate mounting zones. Point-to-point connections have dedicated adapter locations, while split connections have designated splitter mounting areas. This segmentation allows technicians to configure the box for different connection types without interference between systems, maintaining organizational clarity while supporting diversity.
Solution Approach 2:
The box employs dynamic, reconfigurable mounting systems where adapters, splitters, and connectors can be moved between locations based on installation requirements. The internal structure allows components to be repositioned along cable runs, enabling the same box to adapt between point-to-point and split connection configurations as network needs evolve.
4Reliability
If the box does not include environmental sealing, then manufacturing and installation are simpler, but the box lacks reliability in outdoor or harsh environments
Solution Approach 1:
The box integrates the sealing system directly into the main housing structure rather than using separate sealing components. The gasket is molded as part of the box assembly, and cable access points incorporate sealing features built into the housing. This merging reduces the number of separate sealing parts while maintaining comprehensive environmental protection across all entry points.
Data Source
AI summary
A hybrid cable distribution system wherein a feeder cable is received by a box. The feeder cable can be a hybrid cable including optical fibers and copper wire (coax). The box may be used only for copper signal handling (such as coaxial signal handling), and then at a later date, the box may be used for receiving fiber signals. Customers can directly connect to the feeder fan out device by connecting a tail of a drop splice module that is spliced to an individual distribution cable to the feeder fan out device. This connection creates a point-to-point connection. The number of fan out devices in the system can be increased or decreased as needed. Alternatively, a splitter input can be connected to the feeder fan out device, such as through a pigtail extending from the splitter, wherein the splitter splits the signal as desired into a plurality of outputs. The outputs of the splitters can be in the form of connectors or adapters. The connectors or adapters are then connected to tails of drop splice modules that are spliced to individual distribution cables so that customers can receive a split signal. The cable distribution system allows for mixing of connection types to the customer(s) such as a direct connection (point-to-point), or a split signal connection. Further, the types of splitters can be mixed and varied as desired. Further, the types of fan out devices can be mixed and varied as desired.