Splice Distributor With Vertical Ramps For Fiber Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing splice distributors face challenges in achieving a space-saving design while ensuring easy handling and minimizing the risk of damage to optical fibers, especially when used with multi-core fiber optic cables, due to complexities in routing and securing fibers within the device.
Innovation Solution
The splice distributor features a housing with input and connection openings arranged such that the splice tray is partially above the top level, with a ramp guiding connecting fibers below, and a fastening device to secure the input cable's casing tube, allowing for tension-free fiber guidance and reduced curvature, along with reversible fastening for easy assembly and mechanical stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If optical fibers are laid in loops on the housing base in a plane between the connectors, then fiber routing is simplified, but the device becomes bulky and handling becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from planar fiber routing to three-dimensional routing using vertical ramps. The ramps extend from the housing base upward to the connector level, allowing fibers to be routed in multiple directions and levels rather than confined to a single plane. This dimensional change enables compact housing design while maintaining ease of fiber handling and routing.
2Adaptability or versatility
If fiber optic cables are routed back and forth between different levels multiple times, then connections between levels are achieved, but the device design becomes complex and space-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces ramps as intermediary structures that facilitate direct transitions between different levels. Instead of routing cables back and forth through multiple levels, the ramps serve as intermediate pathways that guide cables smoothly from the housing base to the connector level in a single continuous path, reducing routing complexity while maintaining multi-level connectivity.
3Ease of operation
If the splice tray is positioned to accommodate fibers, then fiber placement is optimized, but the housing space and overall device size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes vertical space by positioning the splice tray at an elevated level within the housing rather than spreading components horizontally. The ramps connect the base level to this elevated tray level, creating efficient use of three-dimensional space. This vertical arrangement optimizes fiber placement on the splice tray while keeping the housing footprint compact.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a splice distributor (100) comprising a housing (110) having at least one input opening (112a, 112b) for receiving an input cable (E) that has at least one input optical waveguide (ELa-ELl), and comprising at least one connection opening (114a-114f) for receiving a connecting optical waveguide (ALa-ALl) that is connected to the input optical waveguide (ELa-ELl) in the housing (110) in a light-conducting manner, as well as a splice compartment (130) which is arranged in the housing (110) and is provided on an upper face (132) of the splice compartment (130) in order to receive a connection region (V) of the input optical waveguide (ELa-ELl) and of the connecting optical waveguide (ALa-ALl). The input opening (112a, 112b) is arranged above and adjoining an upper lateral plane (S1) of the splice compartment (130), and the at least one connection opening (114a-114f) is arranged below the upper lateral plane (S1) of the splice compartment (130).