Splitter Module Integration in Telecommunications Enclosures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current passive optical networks face challenges in efficiently extending fiber optic services to new areas due to the complexity and cost associated with integrating telecommunications enclosures and managing optical fibers, splitters, and power splitters within these networks.
Innovation Solution
A splitter module with a housing that includes a splitter, input, and output fibers, along with an enclosure arrangement featuring a base and cover that provides access and sealing for fiber routing and splicing, utilizing ruggedized adapters and a method for connecting feeder fibers to output fibers through splicing and sealing mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional telecommunications enclosures are used to house splitters and fiber routing components, then fiber optic services can be extended to new areas, but the complexity and cost of integrating and managing these components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The splitter is integrated within the housing that forms part of the telecommunications enclosure structure. The input and output fibers are routed through channels within the housing itself, nesting the fiber distribution function within the structural enclosure, thereby reducing the number of separate components and simplifying integration
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the splitter, fiber routing channels, and enclosure housing into a single integrated module. The housing serves both as the structural enclosure and as the fiber routing infrastructure, merging multiple functions into one component that reduces overall system complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional telecommunications enclosures are used to house splitters and fiber routing components, then fiber optic services can be extended to new areas, but the cost of integration and management increases
Solution Approach 1:
By nesting the splitter and fiber routing channels within the housing structure, the patent eliminates the need for separate fiber management components and reduces the number of assembly steps, thereby lowering manufacturing and installation costs while maintaining service extension capability
Solution Approach 2:
The housing serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides the structural enclosure, contains the splitter, routes the fibers, and protects the components. This multi-functionality reduces the total component count and simplifies manufacturing, lowering overall costs
3Ease of operation
If fibers are routed through traditional enclosure structures, then connection locations are provided for end users, but accessibility and ease of management become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The housing includes asymmetric features such as the contoured minor axis and specifically positioned entry and exit openings that facilitate easy access from the front while maintaining secure routing internally. The input fiber enters through one end while output fibers can exit through multiple directions, creating an asymmetric but user-friendly interface
Data Source
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AI summary
An optical splitter module (140) can be carried on a cover (120) of an enclosure (100) between a contoured surface (129) and a row of optical adapters (130). Output pigtails (165) from the splitter module (140) are routed to the optical adapters (130). In certain examples, a significantly longer input fiber (161) is routed from the splitter module (140) to a splice region (114) at a base (110) of the enclosure (100). Certain types of splitter modules (140) are mounted to the cover (120) at an angle relative to an insertion axis for a feeder cable (170). A certain type of splitter module (140) curves about a minor axis (A2) so that one major surface (142) has a concave curvature and another major surface (143) has a convex curvature.