Splice Module Stack Segmented Pivot Axis

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing pivotable splice modules for optical fiber cables experience mechanical stress and bending issues due to translational and pivoting movements, which can lead to undesirable attenuation and damage from being blocked by the pivot axis body.

Innovation Solution

Creating free spaces along the geometric pivot axis to allow fiber optic cables to pass through or be in close proximity, reducing the radial distance and minimizing the impact of pivoting movements, with optional cable guides to ensure passage and stability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If a continuous pivot axis body extends through all splice modules, then structural stability and pivot support are improved, but fiber optic cables are blocked and subjected to mechanical stress

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural stabilityVSAvoidmechanical stress on cables
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The continuous pivot axis body is segmented into multiple separate pivot axis pins, each serving individual splice modules. This segmentation creates gaps between modules that allow fiber optic cables to pass through freely, eliminating the blocking effect while maintaining pivot support functionality for each module

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Different regions of the pivot axis system are assigned different functions: the pivot axis pins provide structural support and stability where needed, while the gaps between pins create cable-friendly zones that minimize mechanical stress. This local differentiation resolves the contradiction between stability and cable protection

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Adaptability or versatility

If fiber optic cables are routed close to the pivot axis, then the radial distance is reduced and cable flexibility is improved, but cables are more susceptible to pivoting movements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecable flexibilityVSAvoidimpact of pivoting movements
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The segmented pivot axis design with gaps between pins allows cables to pass through regions that are not subjected to pivot forces. Cables can be routed through these gap regions, maintaining close proximity to the pivot axis for flexibility while avoiding the harmful effects of pivoting movements on distant cable sections

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentEP3916449B1Splice module stack with improved cable guide
Publication Date: 2023.10.04 HAUFF TECH GRIDCOM GMBH
  • EP3916449B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3916449B1 patent drawingFigure 3
  • EP3916449B1 patent drawingFigure 4

AI summary

The invention relates to a splice module stack consisting of splice modules 1 with splice point storage for fiber optic cables 3, wherein the individual splice modules 1 are pivotable about a geometric pivot axis A and this pivot axis A is implemented by separate pivot axis pins 7.