System and method for routing optical fibers within a multiple dwelling unit
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Connecting multiple dwelling units (MDUs) to FTTX networks is challenging due to difficulties in routing cables within walls or ceilings, requiring multiple reentries to enclosures, increasing costs and service disruptions, and creating disorganized pathways that risk fiber bends and excessive re-entry.
Innovation Solution
A system for routing optical fibers within MDUs using a track with a channel to house jacketed optical fibers, allowing for easy installation and management, including adhesive application, point of entry boxes, and flexible routing around corners and obstacles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional FTTX deployment methods are used with enclosures on each floor, then fiber connectivity can be established, but multiple reentries to enclosures are required increasing installation time, costs, and service disruptions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-installing continuous tracking systems and pathways during the initial building construction or renovation phase. This allows fiber optic cables to be routed through pre-prepared channels, eliminating the need for multiple reentries and extensive on-site installation work later. The tracking system is established in advance to guide cable installation efficiently.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an intermediary approach by introducing continuous tracking systems and intermediate distribution points that facilitate smooth cable transitions between floors and living units. These intermediaries provide organized pathways that eliminate direct reentries into enclosure spaces, allowing cables to be routed through dedicated channels without disrupting existing services.
2Reliability
If conventional FTTX deployment methods are used with enclosures on each floor, then fiber connectivity can be established, but installation costs and operating costs increase due to fusion splice machines and skilled labor requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs disposable or low-cost connection solutions such as plug-and-play connectors and pre-terminated cable assemblies that eliminate the need for expensive fusion splice machines. These simplified connection methods use affordable components that can be quickly installed without highly skilled labor, significantly reducing both capital and operating costs while maintaining reliable fiber connectivity.
3Device complexity
If home run cabling is installed from each living unit directly to the fiber distribution hub, then both horizontal and riser cables are encompassed in a single extended drop cable, but large pre-fabricated crown molding pathways are required which become congested and disorganized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the cable routing into separate, organized sections using continuous tracking systems. Instead of one large congested pathway, the routing is segmented into vertical riser sections and horizontal distribution sections, each with its own dedicated tracking channel. This segmentation prevents congestion and makes pathway management easier by organizing cables into manageable segments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediate distribution points and continuous tracking systems as mediators between the fiber distribution hub and individual living units. These intermediaries provide organized transition zones where cables can be managed, protected, and directed without creating congestion in single large pathways. The tracking systems act as intermediaries that guide cables through organized routes.
4Adaptability or versatility
If drop cables are spliced or connected in the FDT only as service is requested, then service can be provided on-demand, but security and service disruption risks increase due to multiple reentries to the enclosure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-installing continuous tracking systems and pathways that enable future cable installations without requiring reentry into existing enclosures. This preliminary infrastructure allows service providers to quickly deploy new connections on-demand while maintaining the stability of existing services, as the pre-prepared pathways eliminate the need to access and disrupt active enclosures.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Facilitates efficient and organized cable routing, reducing installation time and costs, minimizing service disruptions, and maintaining fiber integrity by avoiding excessive bends and re-entries.
Implementation Method 1
adhering a portion of the track to a wall of the MDU
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a system for routing optical fibers within multiple dwelling units (MDUs) where the system has a removable optical fiber feature that enables such routing of optical fibers within the MDUs.