Pivotal Shelf Rack Mount Assembly for Fiber Optic Maintenance Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current fiber optic network equipment racks face challenges in managing the increasing density of optical fibers and connectors, requiring more flexible and efficient cable management systems to reduce installation and maintenance time and costs.
Innovation Solution
A rack mount assembly with a pivotal shelf that can be moved from a closed to an opened position, allowing access to the top, bottom, and rear sides, and featuring a hinge mechanism for secure pivoting, enabling easier routing and maintenance of optical fibers without disconnecting them from the equipment rack.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If the shelf is fixed in the equipment rack, then the structural stability is improved, but the accessibility for maintenance and installation is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The shelf is designed with a pivotal connection mechanism that allows it to transition between a fixed closed position (providing structural stability) and a movable opened position (providing accessibility for maintenance). The hinge joint enables the shelf to rotate about a vertical axis, transforming the static structure into a dynamic one that adapts to different operational requirements.
2Ease of manufacture
If the shelf is made removable from the equipment rack, then the ease of installation is improved, but the structural stability and reliability are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The pivotal connection mechanism allows the shelf to be easily installed and removed while maintaining structural stability when in the closed position. The hinge joint provides a reliable connection that secures the shelf to the rack frame, ensuring stability during normal operation while allowing controlled movement when needed for maintenance.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection between the shelf and rack frame is segmented into a hinge joint that allows controlled separation and reattachment. This segmentation enables easy installation and removal while maintaining reliability when connected, as the hinge provides a secure yet flexible connection point.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the cable management system is made more adaptable to handle increasing fiber density, then the versatility is improved, but the device complexity is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The pivotal shelf mechanism provides adaptability for cable management by allowing the shelf to be positioned in different configurations. When opened, technicians can access and organize high-density fiber cables more effectively. This dynamic positioning capability enhances versatility without requiring complex additional cable management components.
Solution Approach 2:
The shelf serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for equipment, acts as a cable management surface, and when pivoted open, provides access to rear connections. This multi-functionality increases adaptability for handling increasing fiber density while avoiding the need for separate specialized components that would increase complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A rack mount assembly configured to be received in an equipment rack of a fiber optic network is disclosed. The rack mount assembly includes a shelf having a support surface and first and second brackets configured to be attached to respective frame members of the equipment rack. The brackets are configured to form joints with the shelf. The assembly may include a clip that is configured to be removably coupled to one of the joints. When coupled to a joint, the clip forms a hinge at that joint. The shelf is pivotal at one of the joints and is movable from a closed position to an opened position in which the shelf is configured to extend outwardly of the front side of the rack. A method of installing the rack mount assembly in the equipment rack is also disclosed.