Pivoting Module Cover Plate Stabilization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing fiber optic cable management systems lack stability and flexibility in their pivoting modules, particularly when accessing splice and patch points, leading to difficulties in maintaining secure connections and efficient cable management.

Innovation Solution

A pivoting module device with a cover plate that pivots on a vertical axis parallel to the module axis, providing additional stabilization and locking mechanisms to secure the module in various positions, allowing for greater accessibility and freedom in cable management without additional tools.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a cover plate is added to provide stabilization and locking for the pivoting module, then stability and reliability are improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovestabilityVSAvoidstructure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The cover plate is integrated with the housing to form a unified structure, combining the protective function with the stabilization function. The cover plate includes integrated locking elements that work with corresponding elements in the housing to secure the pivoting module, eliminating the need for separate stabilization mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The cover plate serves multiple functions: it protects the pivoting module, provides stabilization through its rigid structure, enables locking in specific positions through integrated locking elements, and maintains accessibility to patch points and splices. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If locking mechanisms are implemented to secure the module in various positions, then reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovesecurityVSAvoidaccessibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The locking mechanisms are designed to engage automatically when the pivoting module is positioned in the housing, eliminating the need for manual locking operations. The locking elements on the cover plate and housing work together to secure the module in specific positions without requiring additional tools or complex manual procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The locking mechanism allows the pivoting module to be easily moved between positions and then automatically locked in place. The dynamic design enables smooth pivoting motion while providing secure locking when stationary, balancing ease of operation with reliability through automatic engagement of locking elements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If the cover plate pivots on a vertical axis parallel to the module axis, then adaptability and versatility are improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveflexibilityVSAvoidmechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The cover plate pivots on a vertical axis that is parallel to and offset from the module axis, creating a second dimension of movement. This allows the cover plate to pivot independently in a different plane than the module, providing additional flexibility in accessing different areas of the pivoting module while maintaining a relatively simple mechanical implementation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Data Source

PatentEP3916451B1Pivoting module device for optical fibre cable with a cover plate
Publication Date: 2023.01.25 HAUFF TECH GRIDCOM GMBH
  • EP3916451B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3916451B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP3916451B1 patent drawingFigure 5~6

AI summary

The invention relates to a swivel module device for fiber optic cable management with a swivel module 1 which can be swivelled relative to a housing 11 and which, in a swivelled-out state, can be locked to the housing 11 with a cover plate 12, so that the swivel module 1 is supported by the cover plate 12.