Linkage Chain for Fiber Optic Cable Routing and Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current solutions for routing and storing fiber optic cables result in significant waste from discarded pulling grips and inefficient use of space, particularly in dense data center environments where bandwidth demand fluctuates.
Innovation Solution
A linkage chain system comprising linkages with cuffs that securely attach to fiber optic connectors, allowing for flexible routing and storage by forming a chain that can be easily bundled and reused, reducing the need for separate pulling grips and optimizing space usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If separate pulling grips are used for routing fiber optic cables, then cable routing is achieved, but significant waste is generated from discarded pulling grips
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the pulling grip function and cable storage function into a single integrated linkage chain system. The linkage chain serves dual purposes: it acts as a pulling grip during cable installation and as a storage mechanism for unused cables, eliminating the need for separate pulling grips that would be discarded after use.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of discarding the pulling grip after use, the invention recovers and reuses it as part of the linkage chain for storing and managing fiber optic cables. The same mechanical structure that pulls the cable during installation becomes the storage mechanism afterward, preventing waste.
2Ease of manufacture
If separate storage solutions are provided for fiber optic cables, then cable storage is achieved, but a large amount of space is consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the storage function with the routing mechanism. The linkage chain that is used for pulling cables during installation becomes the storage structure for unused cables, eliminating the need for separate storage solutions and reducing space requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The linkage chain performs multiple functions: it serves as a pulling grip during cable installation, as a storage mechanism for unused cables, and as an organizational structure for managing cable bundles. This multi-functionality reduces the need for dedicated storage space.
3Quantity of substance
If fiber optic architectures become more dense, then bandwidth capacity increases, but space for storage devices becomes significantly reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The linkage chain design allows for nested arrangement where multiple linkages can be stacked or bundled together in a compact manner. The cuffs and linkages can be arranged in nested configurations that maximize space utilization while maintaining access to individual cables.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention utilizes three-dimensional spatial arrangement of the linkage chain, allowing cables to be organized in vertical and horizontal dimensions. The linkage structure enables compact stacking and bundling that efficiently uses available space in dense environments.
4Loss of substance
If reusable linkage chain system is used instead of discarded pulling grips, then waste is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The linkage chain is divided into modular linkage units that can be independently manufactured and assembled. Each linkage contains standardized cuffs and connecting mechanisms that can be easily attached and detached, simplifying the overall assembly process despite the reusable design.
Solution Approach 2:
The linkage design uses standardized dimensions and geometries for the cuffs and connecting elements, allowing for mass production and easy assembly. By optimizing the geometric parameters of the linkage components, the system achieves reusability without excessive complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A linkage for releasably securing a fiber optic cable is provided. The linkage includes a central body having a longitudinal axis. The linkage also includes at least two cuffs that are each operatively connected to the central body. Each cuff is defined by a top face, a bottom face, and a lateral face. The lateral face includes an opening such that each cuff is configured to releasably receive a portion of the cable therein. The at least two cuffs includes a first cuff and a second cuff. The first cuff and the second cuff extend in opposing directions transverse to the longitudinal axis of the central body. A cable arrangement including at least two linkages joined together to form a linkage chain and a method for using the linkage chain to releasably secure at least one cable are also provided.