Terminal Box with Moveable Lid for Constrained Space Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing telecommunication networks face challenges in expanding new and existing networks due to limited vertical space for terminal boxes and the need for devices that are strong, lightweight, easy to access, and compatible with both fiber optic and electrically conductive cables, while also allowing easy access and repeated servicing.
Innovation Solution
Aerial terminals with modular terminal boxes that can be selectively hung alongside existing splice closures, featuring a hanger with a panel and shoulder, a moveable lid with latch mechanism for easy access, and breathable designs with vents, allowing compatibility with various cable sizes and types.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If terminal boxes are installed in limited vertical spaces alongside existing splice closures, then network expansion is enabled in constrained areas, but access to the terminal box becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The terminal box incorporates a moveable lid that can be opened and closed, allowing technicians to access the interior components when needed while maintaining a compact, space-efficient closed position. This dynamic element enables the box to transition between a space-saving closed state and an accessible open state, resolving the contradiction between limited space requirements and ease of access.
2Ease of manufacture
If the terminal box is designed to be lightweight for easy handling and installation, then installation efficiency is improved, but structural strength may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The terminal box is constructed from composite materials that combine lightweight properties with adequate structural strength. This allows the box to be easy to handle and install while maintaining the necessary durability and rigidity to protect its contents and withstand environmental conditions, resolving the contradiction between weight and strength.
3Ease of manufacture
If the terminal box design is simplified to reduce manufacturing complexity, then production cost decreases, but adaptability to different cable types and sizes is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The terminal box is designed with universal features that allow it to accommodate multiple cable types (fiber optic and electrically conductive) and various cable sizes through standardized opening mechanisms and interior configurations. This multi-functional design enables a single simplified structure to serve diverse applications without requiring complex specialized variants, resolving the contradiction between manufacturing simplicity and adaptability.
4Volume of moving object
If the terminal box is made compact to fit limited vertical spaces, then space utilization is improved, but access for repeated servicing becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The terminal box is segmented into an exterior housing and an interior serviceable compartment separated by a moveable lid. This segmentation allows the compact exterior to maintain a small footprint while the interior compartment can be easily accessed by opening the lid for repeated servicing, cable management, and maintenance operations, resolving the contradiction between compact size and serviceability.
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 1C
AI summary
A terminal box (24b) for use with telecommunication lines. The terminal box (24b) includes a base (32b) and a lid (34b). The base is a molded double wall structure defining a substantially hollow core. The base (32b) includes opposing top and bottom walls and opposing end walls (68b), and a back wall extending between the top and bottom walls and the end walls (68b). The lid (34b) is movably coupled to the top wall. A portion of at least one of the opposing end walls (68b) defines a compressed double wall region forming a telecommunication line port (70b).