Optical Cable Splicing Apparatus Multi-Method Connection Module
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current fiber access terminals struggle to support multiple optical cable connection methods, such as field-mountable optical connectors, fast connectors, and splicing, requiring operators to purchase different terminals based on connection scenarios.
Innovation Solution
An optical cable connection apparatus is designed with a top cover, bottom housing, flap, optical fiber connection module, and splicing assemblies, allowing for the connection of optical cables through on-site fabrication of field-mountable connectors, use of fast connectors, and splicing, thereby supporting multiple connection methods within a single apparatus.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single fiber access terminal is used, then device complexity is reduced, but it cannot support multiple connection methods (FMC, fast connector, splicing)
Solution Approach 1:
The fiber access terminal is designed with multiple functional modules including an optical cable connection module for FMC and fast connector connections, and a splicing module for splicing operations. This multi-functional design allows a single terminal to support all three connection methods (FMC, fast connector, and splicing), eliminating the need for separate terminals for each connection type while maintaining comprehensive connection capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The terminal is divided into distinct functional modules: an optical cable connection module containing optical cable holes and connection interfaces, and a splicing module containing splicing slots and spool structures. This segmentation allows each module to handle specific connection methods independently, making the overall system versatile while keeping each component relatively simple and manageable
2Adaptability or versatility
If different fiber access terminals are purchased for different connection scenarios, then connection compatibility is achieved, but operational complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The terminal integrates multiple connection capabilities into a single device, allowing operators to use one terminal for all connection scenarios rather than selecting and managing multiple specialized terminals. The optical cable connection module handles FMC and fast connector connections, while the splicing module handles splicing operations, simplifying operational complexity
3Adaptability or versatility
If splicing modules are added to support splicing connection, then connection versatility improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The splicing function is segmented into distinct components: splicing slots for positioning and securing spliced cables, and spool structures for managing loose cable sections. This segmentation allows the splicing module to be designed as a relatively simple, self-contained unit that can be integrated into the terminal without significantly increasing overall complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The splicing module is merged with the optical cable connection module within the same terminal housing, sharing common structural elements such as the bottom housing and top cover. This merging approach allows the terminal to support splicing connections while minimizing the increase in device complexity by reusing existing structural components
Data Source
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Figure 2a
AI summary
An optical cable connection apparatus (01), and relate to the field of optical communications technologies. The optical cable connection apparatus supports connection manners of fabricating an FMC on site, using a fast connector, and splicing. The optical cable connection apparatus (01) includes a top cover (10), a bottom housing (11), a flap (12), at least one optical fiber connection module (13), a first splicing assembly (14), and a second splicing assembly (14). The bottom housing (11) is rotationally connected to the top cover (10) to form a receptacle. The flap (12) is located in the receptacle and is rotationally connected to the top cover (10) or the bottom housing (11). The optical fiber connection module (13) is disposed on a first surface (E1) of the flap (12), and includes a plurality of optical fiber interfaces (131). Each of the optical fiber interfaces (131) is configured to be connected to one optical fiber sub-assembly (132). The first splicing assembly (14) is disposed on a second surface (E2) of the flap (12), and includes a plurality of first fiber splicing slots (140) and a first fiber spool structure (141). The second splicing assembly (15) is disposed on a surface that is of the bottom housing (11) and that faces the top cover (10), and includes a plurality of second fiber splicing slots (150) and a second fiber spool structure (151).