Preconnectorized Riser Cable with Mid-Span Access for MDU Fiber Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation of fiber optic networks in multiple dwelling units (MDUs) is complex and time-consuming due to the need for numerous cables and complicated cabling systems, particularly in indoor installations, which increases costs and installation time.
Innovation Solution
A preconnectorized fiber optic network with a riser cable and preset mid-span access points, optically connected to a feeder cable, using adapters and payout reels to efficiently extend the network to multiple distribution levels, allowing for easy alignment and connection of drop cables to subscriber premises.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional fiber optic networks are installed in multiple dwelling units with many separated cables to connect each subscriber, then reliable optical communication service is provided to each end user, but the installation becomes complex and time-consuming with increased costs
Solution Approach 1:
The fiber optic network is divided into functional segments: a feeder cable from the distribution point, multiple riser cables to different floors, and drop cables to individual units. Each segment serves a specific purpose and can be independently installed and maintained, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining reliable service to each subscriber.
Solution Approach 2:
The riser cables serve multiple functions by providing optical connectivity to multiple distribution points across different floors simultaneously. A single riser cable installation serves multiple subscribers on different levels, reducing the total number of separate cable installations needed compared to individual point-to-point connections.
2Productivity
If many separated cables are installed to connect each subscriber from the main distribution point, then each end user receives dedicated optical connection, but installation time and costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The riser cables are pre-installed and pre-configured in the building infrastructure before individual subscriber connections are made. The feeder cable and riser cables are established in advance, creating a ready-to-connect backbone that allows rapid deployment of drop cables to individual units without requiring complex point-to-point installations for each subscriber.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple individual subscriber connections are merged into a shared optical infrastructure using riser cables that serve multiple floors. Instead of installing separate dedicated cables for each subscriber from the distribution point, the system combines multiple connections into a unified riser cable structure, significantly reducing installation time and complexity.
3Ease of operation
If traditional cabling systems with many separated cables are used in indoor installations, then complete fiber optic coverage is achieved, but routing through walls and building levels becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
Riser cables act as intermediary elements that simplify routing by providing pre-established optical pathways between different floors. Instead of routing individual cables through walls and building levels for each subscriber, the riser cables serve as intermediary conduits that are already in place, allowing drop cables to be easily connected to individual units without complex routing operations.
Data Source
AI summary
A fiber optic network for a multiple dwelling unit (MDU) is disclosed. The fiber optic network comprises a riser cable preconnectorized with a first riser optical connector. The riser cable is optically connected to a feeder cable providing optical communication service to the MDU. The riser cable has one or more preset mid-span access points along the length of the riser cable. One or more optical fibers of the riser cable extend from the riser cable at the one or more preset mid-span access points and are preconnectorized with a second riser optical connector. A payout reel is adapted to pay out the riser cable such that the riser cable extends between the lower level and at least one of the one or more distribution levels. The payout reel is adapted to store a length of the riser.