Rotatable Fiber Distribution Terminal with Incremental Splitters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Fiber optic distribution systems in multiple dwelling units face challenges in managing varying cable lengths and space constraints, particularly in installing and expanding fiber optic networks with efficient cable management and splitter configurations.
Innovation Solution
A fiber distribution device with a rotatable arrangement for coiling fiber optic cables and modular optical splitters that can be incrementally installed at hubs and terminals, allowing for flexible cable management and splitter configurations to accommodate varying demands and space constraints.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fiber optic distribution terminals are installed at separate floors with varying cable lengths, then subscriber access can be provided to multiple locations, but cable management becomes complex and space constraints are exacerbated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a rotatable arrangement that allows the cable coiling mechanism to dynamically adjust and rotate, enabling flexible management of varying cable lengths. This dynamic mechanism permits the cable to be coiled and uncoiled as needed, adapting to different installation scenarios without requiring complex fixed structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a vertical stacking arrangement where multiple fiber distribution devices can be installed at different locations (floors) within a building. This dimensional approach allows cable management to be distributed across multiple levels, reducing the complexity at any single location while maintaining flexibility in overall cable length management.
2Adaptability or versatility
If optical splitters are pre-installed in fiber distribution devices, then network expansion capability is provided, but initial installation cost and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the network expansion functionality into separate modular components. The fiber distribution device is initially deployed without splitters, and optical splitters can be incrementally added as needed. This segmentation allows the base device to be simple and cost-effective, while expansion capabilities are added only when required, reducing initial installation costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent prepares the fiber distribution device with pre-configured interfaces and mounting structures that enable future splitter installation. The device is designed with anticipatory considerations for expansion, including designated locations and structural support, so that when splitters are needed, they can be quickly added without requiring complete system redesign or expensive custom-built devices.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple output adapters are provided in fiber distribution devices, then service to multiple subscribers is enabled, but space requirements and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a rotatable arrangement that allows output adapters to be dynamically accessed. Instead of requiring all possible output adapters to be simultaneously visible and accessible, the rotatable mechanism enables operators to rotate to the needed output port, effectively reducing the space required while maintaining the capability to serve multiple subscribers.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent arranges output adapters in a three-dimensional configuration around the fiber distribution device, allowing multiple services to be accessible from different spatial directions. This dimensional arrangement enables multiple subscriber connections without requiring all adapters to occupy the same planar space, thereby reducing overall device footprint.
4Ease of operation
If fiber optic cables are coiled on a rotatable arrangement, then cable management flexibility is improved, but device complexity and potential cable damage risk increase
Solution Approach 1:
The rotatable arrangement is designed with controlled movement mechanisms that allow the cable coiling structure to rotate and adjust within defined parameters. This dynamic design provides ease of operation for cable management while incorporating structural constraints that prevent excessive movement or stress on the cables, thereby maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates protective structures and stress-absorbing elements in the cable coiling arrangement to cushion and protect the fiber optic cables from damage. These protective features are built into the design beforehand, allowing the rotatable mechanism to move freely for ease of operation while preventing cable stress, bending radius violations, or other sources of damage that would compromise cable integrity.
Data Source
AI summary
A fiber distribution system (10) includes a fiber distribution hub (20, 300); at least one fiber distribution terminal (30, 100); and a cable (40) wrapped around a spool (110) of the fiber distribution terminal (30, 100). The fiber distribution terminal (30, 100) includes a spool (110) and a management tray (120) that rotate together. A second connectorized end (40b) of the cable (40) is held at a fiber optic adapter (125) on the tray (120). After dispensing the first connectorized end (40a) to the hub (20), an optical splitter (70, 130, 140) can be mounted to the tray (120). The splitter (26, 70, 130, 140, 306) has output adapters at which patch cords (50) can be inserted to connect subscribers to the system. The fiber distribution hub can use the same format of splitters (26, 70, 130, 140, 306). Other distributed splitter systems are provided with splicing and/or adding of splitters as needed.