Telecommunications Pedestal Hinge With Flex Finger
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing telecommunications pedestals are unsatisfactory due to limitations in protection, accessibility, and interference issues with cable mounting components, particularly in accommodating both copper and fiber optic cables effectively.
Innovation Solution
A telecommunications cable distribution pedestal design featuring a hinge with a flex finger for controlled door operation, multiple back-to-back compartments with operable doors, and a universal mounting plate with fastener standoffs for secure and organized cable management, along with a peripheral flange for enhanced protection and a method for field conversion between copper and fiber optic cable setups.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a door is provided for cable distribution pedestal, then accessibility to cable components is improved, but the door may move unintentionally due to wind or gravity
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge incorporates a flex finger that applies preliminary counteracting force to prevent the door from moving unintentionally due to wind or gravity. The flex finger bends to absorb forces that would otherwise cause the door to open or close automatically, maintaining door stability while allowing intentional operation.
2Ease of operation
If a hinge allows full travel for door operation, then ease of operation is improved, but cable mounting components may interfere with hinge movement
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge provides differentiated resistance along its travel path through the flex finger mechanism. During portions of travel where cable mounting components are present, the flex finger provides resistance to prevent interference. During other portions where interference is not possible, the hinge travels freely without resistance, maintaining ease of operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple back-to-back compartments are used for copper and fiber optic cables, then versatility is improved, but door coverage becomes insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The cable distribution pedestal is divided into multiple back-to-back compartments that can be independently accessed or covered. This segmentation allows the door to cover only the necessary portions of compartments containing copper and fiber optic cables, providing versatility in cable configuration while maintaining adequate coverage for protected components.
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
The solution provides enhanced protection, accessibility, and flexibility in cable management, preventing unintentional door movement and allowing for mixed copper and fiber optic cable configurations, while reducing cable usage and improving organization within the pedestal.
Implementation Method 1
The hinge includes a flex finger. The hinge is configured such that the hinge will travel a first portion and a third portion without interference by the flex finger. The flex finger provides resistance to the hinge travel during a second portion.
Data Source
AI summary
A cable mounting structure for a telecommunications cable distribution pedestal is provided. The structure has back to back compartments, may be used with fiber or wire and includes at least one door. The structure also includes protection and organization features. The structure is field convertible, reconfigurable and upgradeable. A snap fit door hinge for a telecommunications cable distribution pedestal is also provided.