Modular Fiber Hub Multi-Row Splitter Mounting

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Solution Overview

Problem

Fiber optic network equipment housings face challenges in efficiently supporting a large number of splitter modules within a limited volume and footprint, requiring innovative solutions to optimize space utilization and module installation without the need for tools.

Innovation Solution

A modular fiber distribution housing with a splitter module support system that allows for multiple rows of splitter modules to be cantilevered from an inner surface, utilizing a mounting plate and support brackets with specific opening configurations to securely engage and position the modules, enabling a dense arrangement without increasing the housing's size or volume.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Quantity of substance

If multiple rows of splitter modules are mounted within the housing, then the density of splitter modules is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenumber of splitter modulesVSAvoidmounting structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The support brackets are nested within the housing structure, with multiple brackets arranged in a compact configuration that allows them to interlock and support multiple rows of splitter modules without requiring additional external mounting structures

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The mounting structure is segmented into multiple independent support brackets, each capable of supporting individual splitter modules. This segmentation allows for flexible arrangement of modules in multiple rows while maintaining structural simplicity through modular, repeatable bracket units

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Volume of stationary object

If splitter modules are arranged in a dense configuration, then the volume utilization is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehousing volume utilizationVSAvoidmodule installation and removal
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of stationary objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The support brackets are designed with movable or adjustable components that allow splitter modules to be easily inserted and removed. The dynamic design enables operators to access and manipulate modules in the dense arrangement without requiring disassembly of the entire housing structure

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The support brackets serve as intermediary elements between the housing and splitter modules, providing a mechanism that facilitates easy module installation and removal. The brackets act as mediators that simplify the interaction between operators and the densely packed modules through user-friendly engagement and disengagement features

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS9341800B2Modular optical fiber distribution hub with multi-row splitter module mounting structure
Publication Date: 2016.05.17 CORNING OPTICAL COMMUNICATIONS LLC
  • US9341800B2 patent drawing
  • US9341800B2 patent drawing
  • US9341800B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A modular optical fiber distribution housing is provided. The housing includes a first row of splitter modules and a second row of splitter modules both supported from the inner surface of one of the plurality of walls, and each splitter module is receives an input optical fiber and includes a splitting device configured to split a signal carried by the received input optical fiber into a plurality of signals carried by respective output optical fibers. The first row of splitter modules is located between the second row of splitter modules and the inner surface of the wall supporting the first and second rows of splitter modules.