Variable Ratio Fiber Optic Terminal Coupler for Adjustable Split Ratios
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fiber optic couplers and splitters have fixed power level splits, leading to increased manufacturing and inventory costs and limited flexibility in adapting fiber optic networks to changing circumstances, such as adding new customers or adjusting for different loss budgets.
Innovation Solution
The development of fiber optic terminals equipped with variable ratio couplers and tools that allow for adjustable split ratios, enabling network operators to customize power levels dynamically using a tool that interacts with the coupler to change the output power levels between optical outputs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If conventional fixed ratio couplers are used, then manufacturing and inventory costs increase due to multiple SKUs, but the split ratio can be precisely controlled during manufacturing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by transforming the static, fixed split ratio of conventional couplers into a dynamic, adjustable split ratio. The variable ratio coupler incorporates a mechanism that allows the split ratio to be changed after manufacturing, enabling network operators to adjust power distribution according to different network conditions and requirements, thus eliminating the need for multiple fixed-ratio SKUs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies the parameter changes principle by enabling the split ratio parameter to be modified post-manufacturing. The variable ratio coupler allows continuous or discrete adjustment of the power distribution ratio between output ports, providing flexibility to adapt to different network scenarios without requiring separate manufactured units for each ratio configuration.
2Quantity of substance
If multiple fixed ratio coupler SKUs are maintained, then inventory costs decrease, but device complexity and inventory management increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the universality principle by designing a single variable ratio coupler unit that can perform the function of multiple fixed ratio couplers. This universal device can be configured to provide any desired split ratio within its operating range, eliminating the need to maintain separate inventory stocks for 1:2, 1:4, 1:8, and other fixed ratio configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by enabling the split ratio parameter to be modified post-manufacturing. The variable ratio coupler allows continuous or discrete adjustment of the power distribution ratio between output ports, providing flexibility to adapt to different network scenarios without requiring separate manufactured units for each ratio configuration.
3Ease of operation
If fixed power level splits are used, then network deployment is simplified, but adaptability to changing network conditions is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by transforming the static, fixed split ratio of conventional couplers into a dynamic, adjustable split ratio. The variable ratio coupler incorporates a mechanism that allows the split ratio to be changed after manufacturing, enabling network operators to adjust power distribution according to different network conditions and requirements, thus eliminating the need for multiple fixed-ratio SKUs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies the self-service principle by enabling network operators to independently adjust the split ratio of the coupler on-site according to actual network needs. The adjustment mechanism is designed to be user-friendly, allowing operators to reconfigure power distribution without requiring specialized manufacturing intervention or complex procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
Fiber optic terminals, tools and methods for adjusting a split ratio of a fiber optic terminal are disclosed. In one embodiment, a tool for adjusting a split ratio of a fiber optic terminal includes an axle for insertion into a port of the fiber optic terminal, and a terminal engagement body disposed about the axle. The terminal engagement body includes a terminal engagement feature for engaging an alignment feature within the fiber optic terminal, wherein the axle is free to rotate with respect to the terminal engagement body, and a set-point indicator. The tool further includes an end piece coupled to the axle, and a plurality of set-point markers, wherein rotation of the end piece causes rotation of the axle and an alignment between one set-point marker of the plurality of set-point markers with the set-point indicator indicates the split ratio of the fiber optic terminal.