Inline Fiber Optic Splitter for MDU Retrofit Cabling

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Solution Overview

Problem

The installation of fiber optic networks in multiple dwelling units (MDUs) is challenging due to the need for extensive cabling and labor-intensive mounting of distribution boxes and connectors, especially in retrofitting older buildings, which increases costs and complexity.

Innovation Solution

A compact fiber optic connection device with an integrated optical splitter and sealed casing, featuring a single fiber connector at one end and a multi-fiber connector at the other, allowing for in-line integration with existing fiber optic connectors and reducing the need for extensive cabling and mounting requirements.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If separate cables and distribution boxes are used for each subscriber in MDUs, then optical service can be provided to multiple subscribers, but the cabling complexity and installation labor increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoptical service coverageVSAvoidcabling complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple optical splitter units into a single integrated housing structure. Multiple input/output ports are consolidated within one device enclosure, allowing multiple subscribers to be served through a single mounting location rather than requiring separate distribution boxes for each subscriber.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The integrated optical splitter device serves multiple functions within a single unit: it provides optical signal splitting for multiple subscribers, houses multiple connectors and adapters, and provides a unified mounting interface. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate mounting hardware and cabling infrastructure for each subscriber.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of operation

If distribution boxes are mounted in each floor or location of MDU, then local optical connections can be established, but the mounting and installation process becomes labor-intensive and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelocal optical connectionVSAvoidinstallation time

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple optical connection functions are merged into a single device that can be mounted in one location. The integrated housing contains multiple optical splitters, connectors, and adapters that would otherwise require separate mounting locations, thereby reducing installation time and labor requirements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If extensive cabling is used to connect each subscriber in retrofit MDU scenarios, then optical service can be provided to old buildings, but the routing through walls and levels becomes significantly more difficult and costly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveretrofit capabilityVSAvoidinstallation ease

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent integrates multiple optical splitting and connection functions into a single mountable unit. This consolidation reduces the number of separate cabling runs required through walls and building levels, as multiple subscribers can be served from a single strategic location, thereby simplifying retrofit installation in existing buildings.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

4Adaptability or versatility

If multiple separate fiber optic connectors and distribution equipment are installed, then comprehensive optical coverage is achieved, but the overall device footprint and environmental exposure increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoptical coverageVSAvoiddevice footprint

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent consolidates multiple optical splitter units, connectors, and associated hardware into a single integrated housing. This merging reduces the total physical footprint required on building walls or surfaces, while still providing comprehensive optical coverage for multiple subscribers through the integrated multi-port architecture.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS10598858B2Fiber optic connection device with an in-line splitter

Publication Date: 2020.03.24 CORNING OPTICAL COMMUNICATIONS LLC

AI summary

A fiber optic connection device having a casing with a first end and a second end is disclosed. An optical splitter is positioned in the casing and has an input proximal to the first end of the casing and an output proximal to the second end of the casing. A first optical interface is located adjacent to the first end and is in optical communication with the input of the optical splitter. The first optical interface includes a first optical fiber interconnection point. A second optical interface is located adjacent the second end of the casing and is in optical communication with the output of the optical splitter. The second optical interface includes a second optical fiber interconnection point. In some embodiments, the casing may provide protection from environmental elements.