Fiber Optic Connection Box for Thick Cable Excess-Length Storage

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing fiber optic connection boxes lack efficient storage solutions for excess lengths of relatively thick fiber optic cables and additional components like filters and splitters, leading to space inefficiencies and limited customization options.

Innovation Solution

A connection box design with a base section for storing excess lengths of thick cables, hinged splice cassettes, and a mounting plate that can be folded to access internal components, along with customizable accessories like coupling holders and clamping parts, allowing for flexible organization and access.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Quantity of substance

If conventional connection boxes are used without specialized excess length storage, then the structure remains simple, but thick fiber optic cables cannot be stored efficiently and space is wasted

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestorage capacity for thick cablesVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The connection box is divided into functional segments: a base section for storing excess lengths of thick cables, a connection area for splice points and couplings, and a mounting plate for additional components. This segmentation allows each area to be optimized for its specific purpose while maintaining overall organizational clarity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The mounting plate is designed to be foldable, transitioning between a folded state for compact storage and an unfolded state for accessing additional components like filters and splitters. This dimensional transformation enables the system to accommodate three-dimensional storage needs without permanently increasing the footprint.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Ease of operation

If the connection area is accessible without lifting or moving internal structures, then ease of operation is improved, but the base section with excess length storage becomes inaccessible

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccess to base sectionVSAvoidinternal structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting plate is designed as a movable, foldable structure that can be rotated between a folded position (when not needed) and an unfolded position (when access to the base section is required). This dynamic element allows the base section to be accessed without permanently altering the connection area's accessibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If fixed configurations are used in connection boxes, then manufacturing is simplified, but adaptability for different connection needs is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecustomization optionsVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The connection box incorporates a universal mounting plate that can be folded or unfolded depending on the installation requirements. This single component serves multiple functions: providing structural support, enabling access to the base section, and accommodating additional components like filters and splitters, thereby increasing adaptability without requiring multiple specialized devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

4Adaptability or versatility

If space for additional components like filters and splitters is included, then functionality is enhanced, but the connection box becomes larger

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunctional capabilitiesVSAvoidconnection box footprint
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting plate with its folding mechanism allows the connection box to effectively nest additional functional components within its existing footprint. When folded, the mounting plate consolidates space; when unfolded, it provides access to the base section and accommodates additional components, thereby enhancing functionality without permanently increasing the external dimensions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Data Source

PatentEP4617751A1Connection box for glass fibres with a stack of excess lengths
Publication Date: 2025.09.17 HAUFF TECH GRIDCOM GMBH
  • EP4617751A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4617751A1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4617751A1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to a fiber optic connection box with a housing and a connection area therein, which has splice point storage and/or patch points, wherein an excess length storage for a complete fiber optic cable strand passing through the connection box is provided below the connection area.