Optical Splitter Assembly Compact Design Fiber Loops
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing optical splitter assemblies in fiber distribution hubs are large and complex due to the size of the fiber loop, which increases the overall size and complexity of the fiber distribution hub.
Innovation Solution
The optical splitter assembly features a compact design with a housing that supports the optical splitter element and fanout elements, allowing input and output fibers to extend directly without loops, thereby reducing the assembly's size and complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If fiber loops are used to connect optical splitter outputs to the fiber optic patch panel, then the optical signal can be transmitted, but the assembly size and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the unnecessary fiber loops from the optical splitter assembly. By removing the looping configuration and implementing a direct connection between the optical splitter outputs and the fiber optic patch panel, the invention maintains optical signal transmission while significantly reducing assembly complexity and size.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of following the conventional approach of looping fibers to provide flexibility and routing options, the patent inverts the approach by using a direct, non-looping connection. This inversion eliminates the complexity associated with loop management while still achieving reliable signal transmission through proper positioning and alignment of the optical components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If fiber loops are used in the optical splitter assembly, then signal routing flexibility is provided, but the overall assembly size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the excess fiber loop structures from the assembly, extracting only the essential direct connection paths needed for signal transmission. This reduction in redundant fiber routing eliminates the volume occupied by loops while maintaining the necessary adaptability through proper port alignment and direct fiber pathways.
3Reliability
If conventional optical splitter assemblies with loops are used, then signal transmission is achieved, but the fiber distribution hub size and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the optical splitter assembly with the fiber distribution hub in a more integrated manner by eliminating the separate loop routing infrastructure. The direct connection approach allows the optical splitter to be more closely integrated with the patch panel, reducing the overall volume required for the fiber distribution hub while maintaining signal transmission reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
Optical splitter assemblies are provided. An assembly may include a housing, one or more fanout elements, an optical splitter element, an input fiber and a plurality of output fibers. The input fiber extends from an input opening of the housing to the optical splitter element. The input fiber carries an input signal to the optical splitter element and the optical splitter element splits the input signal into a plurality of output signals to be carried by the plurality of output fibers. Each of the output fibers extends from the optical splitter element to beyond a plurality of output openings of the housing. Each of the fanout elements defines one or more channels for supporting the input or output fibers. The assembly may further include tubular members for further support to the fibers. The fibers extend from the openings of the housing to the optical splitter element free of any loops.