Stair-stepped WDM Modules for Dense Rack Space Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current WDM filter solutions require significant physical space due to their large form factor, leading to high operational and capital costs for service providers and data centers, as they need to occupy multiple rack units for housing and managing fiber optic connections efficiently.
Innovation Solution
The development of stair-stepped modules with flanged sides for secure placement and easy access, combined with a 1RU dense shelf and chassis configurations, allows for high-density packing of circuit modules with up to 24 LC or 12 SC fiber connections per module, enabling efficient use of rack space through removable trays and innovative cable management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If traditional WDM filter solutions are used, then signal transmission functionality is achieved, but physical footprint is large occupying multiple rack units
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the WDM functionality into separate filter modules (multiplexer and demultiplexer) that can be independently housed in compact enclosures. Each filter module is a self-contained unit with specific wavelength filtering capabilities, allowing the overall system to achieve high signal transmission capacity while minimizing the physical footprint of each individual component.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nested structure where fiber optic cables are routed through the chassis from the rear, with connectors positioned at the front panel. The filter modules are housed within compact enclosures that are nested within the overall rack-mounted chassis, creating a space-efficient configuration that maximizes signal transmission capacity within minimal rack space.
2Area of stationary object
If filter size is reduced to minimize footprint, then rack space is optimized, but access and serviceability become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The filter modules are designed with dynamic access characteristics - while the overall footprint is minimized through compact housing, the front panel connectors and rear cable access points are positioned to allow easy serviceability. The modular design enables technicians to access and service individual filter modules without requiring the entire system to be disassembled, maintaining ease of operation despite reduced physical dimensions.
3Productivity
If more filters are packed into smaller space, then density increases, but cable routing and fiber management become complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves cable routing complexity by transitioning from a two-dimensional planar arrangement to a three-dimensional spatial configuration. Fiber optic cables enter through the rear of the chassis and are routed vertically through the chassis structure to front panel connectors, utilizing the depth dimension of the rack-mounted enclosure. This dimensional approach allows multiple filters to be densely packed while maintaining organized, manageable cable routing paths.
Data Source
AI summary
A rack system comprising a plurality of removable housing modules each configured to hold a plurality of electronic modules in stepped rows, with the housing modules being arranged on a tray at least partly within a housing in a dense configuration, thereby providing ease of access to the electronic modules for routing wire connectors to each of the electronic modules in an organized manner.