EP2729837A1

EP2729837A1 - A device for handling a connectorized fiber cable

Info

Publication number: EP2729837A1
Application number: EP12730198.4A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Ludwig Vleugels
Original assignee: Gigacom Benelux bvba
Current assignee: Gigacom Benelux bvba
Priority date: 2011-07-06
Filing date: 2012-06-19
Publication date: 2014-05-14
Also published as: WO2013004488A1

Abstract

The present invention relates to a device (100) for handling a connectorized fiber cable (103) in an optical fiber distribution system (200). The optical fiber distribution system (200) comprises a patch panel (201), the patch panel (201) comprising at least a first adapter (205). The first adapter (205) is configured to receive an optical connector (109) and to provide optical connection to the optical connector (109) when connected to the first adapter (205). The connectorized fiber cable (103) is terminated at a first end with the optical connector (109). The device (100) comprises a gripping unit (101) configured to manipulate the connectorized fiber cable (103).

Description

A DEVICE FOR HANDLING A CONNECTORIZED FIBER CABLE

TECHNICAL FIELD

The embodiments herein relate generally to a device and a method in the device. More particularly the embodiments herein relates to handling a connectorized fiber cable in an optical fiber distribution system. BACKGROUND

Fiber is playing a more and more dominant role in telecom networks. Up till now, the use of fiber has been mainly limited to long-haul and metro networks. Recently, more and more operators have started to use fiber in the access. Fiber-To-The-Home (FTTH), Fiber-To-The-Building (FTTB), advanced Hybrid Fiber-Coax (HFC) and Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) networks all require fiber on a large scale.

The management of the physical layer, i.e. the fiber itself, has not seen a lot of innovation in the last decade. Manual Optical Distribution Frames (ODFs) usually terminate the fibers, coming from the outside plant, inside the Central Office (CO) on an optical connector. A Central Office is a building that houses all the transmission equipment of an operator. This optical connector provides the flexibility required for reconfiguration, further upgrades, redundancy or test access. Typical ODFs are frames of 2m high and 1 m wide, terminating 500+ fibers.

Furthermore, fiber-rich architectures, like fiber-to-the-home, will require a flexibility point outside the CO as well. Typically, street cabinets are used to collect the fibers from the neighbourhood and transport the information to the central office. Reconfiguration of the physical fibers is often necessary. Some example occasions are listed below:

During network build or commissioning.

When a customer wants a connection.

When the network needs to be tested for pro-active monitoring.

- When the network needs to be tested for troubleshooting. - When a customer wants to stop the service.

When a customer wants move to another operator in open access networks (churn).

When a customer wants another service, i.e. grooming, load balancing.

- During network upgrades.

- Etc.

Every time an activity like the ones listed above, is required, a truck roll and a manual intervention will be necessary. These interventions are expensive, require 24/7 availability of skilled technicians and the risk of making errors is substantial. In some cases, the ODF or street cabinet, such as a Fiber Distribution Hub (FDH) becomes a big issue in the network if the fibers are not managed in the correct way. Furthermore, the information database comprising information of the network is not always in line with the reality, because every change in the network needs to be reported to the database system manually. Most of the fiber optic patch panels that are currently available on the market are bulky due to big dimensions of the connectors, the big cable diameters and cable bend radius restrictions.

Therefore, automated fiber management has been discussed. Most of the full optical switches available on the market today, are high-end products that are too expensive for use in access networks. Their feature set, i.e. switching time/optical losses etc, is somewhat different from what will be required in access networks. The most popular technology for optical switches is three dimensional (3D) Micro Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS) technology, where micro-mirrors are used to reflect the light beam. Changing the position of these mirrors may reflect the light in another direction. However, such fully automated cabinets have some disadvantages such as a very high initial cost, weak optical performance and the cabinet itself is bulky and not scalable. Further, fully automated ODFs used in access networks do not provide a "latching" feature, which means that they need both power and a backup power source. There are also reliability issues associated with the fully automated ODFs, when such a high end product becomes a single point of failure.

Up till now, there are no operators deploying fully automated switches in the access network on a large scale because of the issues mentioned above. SUMMARY

The objective is therefore to obviate at least one of the above disadvantages and to provide an improved way of handling a connectorized fiber cable in an optical fiber distribution system.

According to a first aspect, the objective is achieved by a device for handling a connectorized fiber cable in an optical fiber distribution system. The optical fiber distribution system comprises a patch panel. The patch panel comprises at least a first adapter. The first adapter is configured to receive an optical connector and to provide optical connection to the optical connector when connected to the first adapter. The connectorized fiber cable is terminated at a first end with the optical connector. The device comprises a gripping unit configured to manipulate the connectorized fiber cable.

According to a second aspect, the objective is achieved by a method in a device for handling a connectorized fiber cable in an optical fiber distribution system. The optical fiber distribution system comprises a patch panel. The patch panel comprises at least a first adapter. The first adapter is configured to receive an optical connector and to provide optical connection to the optical connector when connected to the first adapter. The connectorized fiber cable is terminated at a first end with the optical connector. The device manipulates the connectorized fiber cable with a gripping unit.

Embodiments herein afford many advantages, of which a non-exhaustive list of examples follows:

Using a device in a semi-automated optical fiber distribution system provides the possibility to manage the fibers, i.e. the optical fiber cables, in an automated fashion. The optical fiber distribution system has the same good optical performance and reliability as a traditional manual system, e.g. no signal loss in case of a system failure. The device allows for reconfigurations and test access without a manual intervention or truck roll, which is a cost effective and environmentally friendly advantage. The device may be used in both indoor and outdoor plant operations. Another advantage of embodiments herein is the possibility to upgrade the system from manual to automated, and even the possibilities to temporary automate a manual system. Another advantage is that there is no fiber management problem regarding entangling of cables since the system is

operated by the device, due to a close parking position. A further advantage is that it provides the possibility to reconnect cables and that it provides non-entangling in an automated way.

Another advantage of the embodiments herein is that using the automated device for manipulating and testing a connector allows to high densities in the optical fiber

distribution system. A further advantage is that it enables a modular approach, allowing for optical fiber distribution systems having from 10s to 1000s of fiber cables, in

increments of e.g. 48.

The embodiments herein are not limited to the features and advantages mentioned above. A person skilled in the art will recognize additional features and advantages upon reading the following detailed description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The embodiments herein will now be further described in more detail in the following detailed description by reference to the appended drawings illustrating the embodiments and in which

Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating embodiments of a semi-automated optical fiber distribution system. Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating a side view of embodiments of a device.

Fig. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating a side view of embodiments of a device.

Fig. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating embodiments of a device gripping a fiber cable.

Fig. 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating embodiments of a device in a closed position.

Fig. 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating embodiments of a device in an open position. Fig.7 is a schematic diagram illustrating embodiments of a device comprising a connector and a test connector.

Fig. 8 is a schematic diagram illustrating embodiments of a device.

Fig. 9 is a schematic diagram illustrating embodiments of a device comprising a

connector and a test connector.

Fig. 10 is a flow chart illustrating connecting a connectorized fiber cable to a source and destination adapter, i.e. patchcord - crossconnect.

Fig. 1 1 is a flow chart illustrating test access.

Fig 12 is a flow chart illustrating embodiments of a method in a device.

The drawings are not necessarily to scale and the dimensions of certain features may have been exaggerated for the sake of clarity. Emphasis is instead placed upon

illustrating the principle of the embodiments herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The embodiments herein provide a device that allows changing the physical infrastructure of a fiber optic network without manual interventions.

The device is a robotic unit which may be part of a (semi)-automated optical fiber

distribution system. The term optical fiber distribution system or system will be used in the following description to describe the (semi)-automated optical fiber distribution system.

Using a semi-automated optical fiber distribution system provides the possibility to

manage the fibers, i.e. the optical fiber cables, in both a manual and automated fashion.

This system may be part of an optical distribution frame (ODF) which may be adapted for indoor or outdoor mounting, or part of a Fiber Distribution Hub (FDH) which may be a street cabinet or even mounted indoors. The device may be used in various applications, such as for example a fiber-to-the-home cabinet or an ODF in a central office environment. A person skilled in the art will understand, from the description below, how to implement the embodiments herein in other types of applications.

5

An embodiment of the optical fiber distribution system 200 is illustrated in Figure 1. The system 200 comprises at least one fiber optic patch panel 201. The patch panel 201 may be divided in two sides, side A and side B (not shown). Side A represents fibers coming from a central office and side B represents fibers going to a customer, i.e. the 10 home. The patch panel 201 may be arranged as a matrix, having rows and columns. An optical link ends on the patch panel.

In open access architectures, the optical fiber distribution system 200 may be used by one or more operators providing optical fiber services to one or more homes. For example 15 33% of side A may come from operator x, 33% may come from operator y and 33% may come from operator z etc.

The patch panel 201 comprises at least one adapter 205. In some embodiments, the patch panel 201 comprises a plurality of adapters 205, where the adapters are grouped in

20 subsets in a vertical layout or in a horizontal manner. As mentioned above, the patch panel 201 may be arranged as a matrix. A subset of adapters may be designed as a sub matrix of adapters 205 comprising e.g. three rows, i.e. horizontal, of adapters. Each row may comprise e.g. 20 adapters 205. Between each row of adapters 205 there is an open space. The open space provides space for a device 100, as shown in more detail in

25 Figure 2 and Figure 3, to be able to access an array of adapters 205 on the patch panel 201 , and to be able to pick and place an optical connector 109 out of and into the adapter 205. The size and form of the open space is connected to the design of the device 100. The adapter 205 is used when two optical connectors 109 have to be mated. The adapter 205 is positioned between two optical connectors 109 and takes care of the

30 alignment of these optical connectors 109, and ensures the physical contact between the two optical connector tips, i.e. ferrules. A sleeve is mounted inside the adapter 205 taking care of the alignments of the ferrules. When an optical connector 109 is connected to the adapter 205, the adapter 205 provides optical connection to the optical connector 109. The optical connection is further provided by an optical link ending on the backside of the patch panel 201 . The adapter 205 on the patch panel 201 may be in one of the following states:

Connected to (side, row, column).

Empty.

- In test.

The adapter 205 may be covered by a removable dust cap 207 when not in use. This dust cap 207 protects the optical connector patched at the back side of the adapter 205 from dust that may cause problems for the light passing through the optical fiber cable.

The dust cap 207 may be removed automatically by the device 100.

Connectorized fiber cables 103, seen on e.g. Figure 4, may be connected at the front side of the patch panel 201 for flexibility. The connectorized fiber cable 103 is used to make a cross-connection between two adapters 205 inside the optical fiber distribution system 200. A connectorized fiber cable 103 is used to make a connection from e.g. the left side A, i.e. the CO side, to the right side B, i.e. the customers of the patch panel 201 . In the optical fiber distribution system 200 it is possible to connect a connectorized fiber cable between any of the adapters 205 on the patch panel 201 , i.e. to make an any-to-any connection, because there are no dedicated inputs or dedicated outputs. The connectorized fiber cable 103 may be for example a patch cord or a pigtail. A patch cord is, as known for a person skilled in the art, an optical fiber cable terminated at each end with an optical connector 109. The optical connectors 109 may be patched to e.g. an adapter 205 on the patch panel 201 . A pigtail is an optical fiber cable terminated at a first end with an optical connector 109 and where the second end is directly spliced to for example another cable or a splitter module. The optical connector 109 may be patched to an adapter 205 on the patch panel 201 . The connectorized fiber cables 103 are ultra-thin cables with a diameter of for example 1 mm and length of e.g. 1 10cm. All connectorized fiber cables 103 in the optical fiber distribution system 200 may have the same diameter and length. The small size of the ultra-thin connectorized fiber cables 103 is necessary to avoid tangling of the connectorized fiber cables 103 when routed or guided over a steering unit. The steering unit may also be called drum or steering drum. Despite the small diameter of the connectorized fiber cables 103, the performance and loss of the optical fiber cables are good. The connectorized fiber cables 103, when routed over the steering unit, may have a minimum bending radius that is in line with the cable and fiber specification at all times. The connectorized fiber cables 103 may be routed over the steering unit in a non-entangling path, which eliminates fiber management problems.

As mentioned above, the device 100 is configured to allow the manipulation of at least one of these optical connectors 109 and connectorized fiber cables 103 in an automated fashion. By this action, the physical fiber infrastructure is changed. The device 100 may be mounted on an X-Y table in order to position the device 100 in front of the connector 109 or adapter 205 that needs to be manipulated.

The device 100 may be designed as a robotic arm or a device that moves in a xy patch in a frame. The device has at least one gripping unit to pick and place the optical

connectors 109 of the connectorized fiber cables 103 in adapters 205 without creating optical losses on other connectorized fiber cables 103 or create entanglement of the connectorized fiber cables 103. The device 100 is also configured to guide and route the connectorized fiber cables 103 over the steering unit. The device 100 may be placed in front of the patch panel 201 when it is in operation. When the device 100 is in idle state, it may be positioned in the corner of the optical fiber distribution system 200, or in a position where the device 100 is not a hindrance for a service technician that needs to perform manual service or maintenance of the optical fiber distribution system 200. Since the device 100 is placed in the fiber distribution system 200, there may be restrictions on the physical dimension of the device 100.

The optical fiber distribution system 200 may initially be installed without the device 100, i.e. it is a manual system initially. However, the manual system may at any time be

upgraded and automated by installing the device 100. This may be done without

disturbing or interrupting the already existing optical connections. In some embodiments, the system 200 may be temporary automated for example until all the patching of

connectorized fiber cables 103 is completed, or until all fiber links have been tested during network construction.

The device 100 comprises the following main part: A gripping unit 101 that allows the manipulation of the connectorized fiber cable 103.

The gripping unit 101 is configured to disconnect the optical connector 109 from the first adapter 205, connect the optical connector 109 to the first adapter 205, and to route the connectorized fiber cable 103 over a steering unit. The gripping unit 101 may further disconnect the dust cap 207 from the first adapter 205, and connect the dust cap 207 to the first adapter 205. The gripping unit 101 comprises a first finger 101a and a second finger 101 b. The first finger 101 a and the second finger 101 b are movably connected to each other and may open and close to grip a connector 109 or a connectorized fiber cable 103 firmly. The first finger 101 a and the second finger 101 b have a dimension and shape adapted to be able to operate in the optical fiber distribution system 200. Each of the first finger 101 a and the second finger 101 b may have a claw like shape so that the gripping unit 101 can grip the connector 109. The first finger 101 a and the second finger 101 b may each have two hooks on the part of the finger that will grip the connector 109, as seen on e.g. figure 6 and figure 8. When gripping a connector 109, the first hook of the first finger 101 a may go inside a hole of the connector 109 and the second hook of the first finger 101 a touches the backside of the connector 109. This applies in the same way to the second finger 101 b.

In some embodiments, as seen on for example figure 3, the first finger 101 a and the second finger 101 b are separate fingers, and each of the first finger 101 a and the second finger 101 b is connected to a linear rail 135. In some embodiments, the first finger 101 a and the second finger 101 b is connected to a common arm, thus the first finger 101 a and the second finger 101 connected to the arm has an y-shape. The first finger 101 a and the second finger 101 b may be made of any suitable material, such as e.g. hardened steel, hard plastic etc.

The gripping unit 101 is configured to take a first closed position (see fig 8) when the first finger 101 a and the second finger 101 b are distanced by a first distance Y1. The first closed position enables the gripping unit 101 to grip the optical connector 109. The first closed position may be referred to a half closed position for holding the connector 109. Consequently, the first distance is adapted to the size of the optical connector 109. The gripping unit 101 is further configured to take a second closed position, as shown in

Figure 5, when the first finger 101 a and the second finger 101 b are distanced by a second distance Y2. The second closed position enables the gripping unit 101 to grip the connectorized fiber cable 103. The second distance Y2 is shorter than the first distance Y1 . The second distance Y2 is adapted to the size of the connectorized fiber cable 103. The second closed position is a position where the gripping unit 101 is completely closed for holding the cable 103.

The gripping unit 101 is further configured to take an open position, as illustrated in

Figure 6, when the first finger 101 a and the second finger 101 b are distanced by a third distance Y3. In the open position the gripping unit 101 is completely open and ready to catch or grip the connector 109. The third distance Y3 is larger than each of the second distance Y2 and the first distance Y1 . In the open position, the gripping unit 101 does not hold the optical connector 109 or the connectorized fiber cable 103.

In some embodiments, the size of the connector 109 and the diameter of the cable 103 are known, and all connectors 109 in the system 200 are of the same embodiments. Then, the first distance, the second distance and the third distance may be predetermined in the device 100, i.e. in a memory unit (not shown) in the device or in a "remote" computer connected to the device 100.

The first finger 101 a and the second finger 101 b are configured to rotate at least partially around rotating axis, by means of e.g. at least one wheel 125, to allow easy guiding of the connectorized fiber cable 103 in narrow spaces.

In some embodiments, the gripping unit 101 further comprises a guiding wire 122 positioned between the first finger 101 a and the second finger 101 b. The guiding wire 122 is configured to position the connectorized fiber cable 103 in the gripping unit 101 when the gripping unit 101 is in the second closed position. When a connectorized fiber cable 103 has to be guided, the first finger 101 a and the second finger 101 b will first approach the cable 103 in the open position. At that moment the area that has to catch the cable 103, determined by the third distance Y3 and Z1 , is as big as possible. Once the cable 103 is inside this area, the gripper fingers 101 a and 101 b will close and the area, determined by the second distance Y2 and Z2, is as small as possible. The gripper will close completely, i.e. the second closed position, and the connectorized fiber cable 103 will be caught between the first finger 101 a, the second finger 101 b and the guiding wire 122. By closing the gripping unit 101 , the guiding wire 122 is pushed towards the front, i.e. to the right on figure 5, making the hole for the cable 103 smaller, allowing an easier guiding of the cable 103. When the gripping unit 101 is in the open position, the guiding 5 wire 122 may be straight wire or it may be slightly curved in the direction of the opening of the gripping unit 101. When the gripping unit 101 goes to the second closed position, independently of the straight or curved shape of the guiding wire 122 in the open position, the guiding wire 122 will be pushed together and providing a even more curved shape of the wire 122. In the second closed position, the tension of the guiding wire 122 will be

10 higher compared to in the open position. The guiding wire 122 is made of a flexible

material such as for example plastic or a spring wire to be able to be pushed forward. In some embodiments, the length of the guiding wire 122 may for example correspond to the third distance Y3, i.e. then the guiding wire 122 will have a straight shape in the open position. In some embodiments, the guiding wire 122 may be longer than the third

15 distance Y3, i.e. the guiding wire 122 will have a curved shape in the open position.

In some embodiments, the device 100 may further comprises a testing unit 105 or testing probe that comprises the fiber and a test connector 107 that provides the test access. The testing unit 105 may also be referred to as a testing probe. The testing unit

20 105 provides test access for testing the optical link ending on the patch panel 201 to the customer or to the central office. The testing unit 105 may comprise an optical test connector 107, as seen in e.g. Figure 7, Figure 8 and Figure 9. The testing unit 105 may further comprise an arm 401. The optical test connector 107 is connected to the arm 401. The testing unit 105 is positioned in close proximity to the gripping unit 101 . If the

25 optical link ending on the patch panel 201 needs test access, for example for

troubleshooting or during construction, the gripping unit 101 will take out the connector 109 from the adapter 205, or a dust cap 207 when there is no connector 109 present in the adapter 205, move it away from the adapter 205 over a minimal distance and put the test connector 107 in the adapter 205. Once the testing has been finished, the testing unit

30 105 will move back, and the gripping unit 101 will put the connector 109 back into the adapter 205. It is important that during this sequence, no optical losses are generated in the adjacent links. The fact that the testing unit 105 is in close proximity of the gripping unit 101 , makes this possible. The automated test routine may be initiated from a remote location, and the test connector 107 may reach every adapter 205 in the patch panel 201.

35 The test connector 107 may have the same shape and size as the connector 109. The test connector 107 may wear out. However the test connector 107 is configured to be replaced with a new connector when needed. The replacement of the worn out test connector 107 may be done manually by a service technician. The automated "test access sequence" does not require any manual intervention or truck roll.

In some embodiments, the testing unit 105 is a separate device, not connected to the device 100 comprising the gripping unit 101. The description above and below also apply to the case where the testing unit 105 is not part of the device 100, i.e. it is a separate testing device. Note that, when considering the separate testing device, the mentioning of the gripping unit 101 may be disregarded. A separate testing device may comprise a linear guiding system 130, a motor 120, a vision unit 1 13, a sensor 1 15 as described below. In front of the patch panel 201 , an x-axis extends in a plane. The plane may be referred to as a robotic X-Y table. The plane is parallel to the patch panel 201. Further, a y-axis extends in the plane and is orthogonal to the x-axis. The device 100 is configured to move in the x-axis and the y-axis in the plane in front of the patch panel 201 . The device may also move in a z-axis in front of the patch panel 201. The z-axis is orthogonal to the plane, and the z-axis is orthogonal to the x-axis and the y-axis. Both the gripping unit 101 and the testing unit 105 may move in the z-direction independent from each other.

The device 100 may comprise a linear guiding system 130, enabling the gripping unit 101 and the testing unit 105 to move in the z-axis in the above mentioned plane. The gripping unit 101 and the testing unit 105 may move in a sliding way in the z-axis towards and away from the patch panel 201. The testing unit 105 may be at least partly located in the linear guiding system 130. In other words, the linear guiding system 130 may comprise an opening configured to house the testing unit 105. When the testing unit 105 is not in use, it may be retraced in the opening. The linear guiding system 130 may further comprise a sliding rail in which the gripping unit 101 may move/slide in the z-axis. The sliding rail may be a part of the linear guiding system 130, or a separate part mounted on the sliding rail. The linear guiding system 103 may be connected to the patch panel 201 at any suitable point , for example as illustrated in figure 1. The testing unit 105 may be located above the gripping unit 101 , or the testing unit 105 may be located below the gripping unit in the y-axis. In some embodiments, the gripping unit 101 and the testing unit 105 are located side by side, in the x-axis. The device 100 may be connected to the patch panel 201 or connected to any suitable point in the system 200.

The device 100 comprises a motor 120 and a sensor 115 that operates the device 100 and controls the movement of the device 100, i.e. the gripping unit 101 and the testing unit 105. In some embodiments, the device 100 may comprise a plurality of motors 120, where each motor drives different parts of the device 100. For example, a first motor 120a may drive the rotational movement of the gripping unit 101 and enables the gripping unit 101 to rotate around the rotating axis. The first motor 120 may be positioned e.g. behind the wheel 125. Further, a second motor 120b may drive the open and close function of the gripping unit 101 . The second motor 120b may be positioned behind the gripping unit 101 . A third motor 120c may drive the movement of the testing unit 105 in the z-axis. The third motor 120c may be positioned behind the linear guiding system 130. A fourth motor 120d may drive the movement of the gripping unit 101 in the z-axis. The motor 120, the second motor 120b, the third motor 120c and the fourth motor 120d may be for example a stepper motor. In some embodiments the first motor is a DC motor. The motor 120 may be driven by a PLC from the central office. If the optical fiber distribution system 200 is placed indoors, the motor 120 may be driven by regular power. If the optical fiber distribution system 200 is placed outdoors, the motor 120 may be driven by e.g. solar power and/or batteries.

As exemplified in figure 2, the sensor 1 15 may be positioned below the gripping unit 101 or on top of the linear guiding system 130. The device 100 may comprise one or more sensors 1 15. In general, positioning of the sensor 1 15 should be at a location where it does not hinder the correct operation of the device 100, and where it does not create fiber management problems. The sensor 1 15 maybe of the inductive, photoelectric or optical type.

The device 100 comprises a vision unit 113 configured to monitor the device 100. The vision unit 1 13 makes it possible to control and correct the movements of the device 100 from a distance. The picture seen by the vision unit 1 13 may be sent to a computer at a "remote" location for interpretation and analysis. The vision unit 1 13 may be any suitable image capturing device configured to record and store image. The images recorded by the vision unit 1 13 may be still or moving images. The vision unit 1 13 may be a digital camera, a video camera, a still camera, etc. For example, the vision unit 1 13 may detect when the gripping unit 101 has come close enough to the adapter 205 so that the connector 109 can be connected to the adapter 205. The vision unit 1 13 may further monitor for example a fire or smoke in the system 200, that something is broken in the system 200 etc. The vision unit 1 13 may be positioned in any suitable place in the system 100 where it may monitor the device 100, for example on the side of the gripping unit 101 . The vision unit 1 13 may be configured to move in the system 100 to enable a closer monitoring of a specific part of the system 100 if necessary. The movement of the vision unit 1 13 may be controlled by at least one of the different motors of the system 200.

The device 100 may be controlled or operated, using the motor, the sensor 1 15 and the vision unit 1 13, from the computer at the "remote" location. The remote location may be for example the central office, as described above, or the Network Operations Center (NOC) of the operator. An Element Management System (EMS) will control and manage all the hardware of the entire network of an operator. The EMS may perform the following functions:

- Authentication, Authorization and Accountability (AAA), e.g. user groups,

passwords.

System Navigation, e.g. using Geographic Information System (GIS) tools.

Alarm & Fault management

Configuration management, e.g. Network Inventory, Discovery, Synchronization, Firmware.

Provisioning and Re-Configuration

Test Access Management, e.g. Test scheduling and results data gathering.

External interfaces, e.g. northbound Operations Support System (OSS)

Integration, alarm forwarding, etc...

- Customer specific requirements.

The device 100 may receive instructions from this EMS, instructions to for example move the optical connector 109 from one adapter 205 to another adapter 205. The vision unit 1 13 may monitor this movement. Further, the EMS may comprise a database storing information about for example the status, e.g. connected, empty, in test, of the adapters 205 of the optical fiber distribution system 200. The database may be automatically updated when the device 100 performs an operation in the optical fiber distribution system 200. The database and instructions may be stored in a computer readable medium.

5 In some embodiments, the device 100 comprises a cleaning unit (not shown) configured to clean the connector 109 and the adapter 205. In fact, when an adapter is cleaned, both the adapter sleeve and the optical connector 109 sitting at opposite sides may be

cleaned. The device 100 may comprise different cleaning units for the optical connector 109 and the adapter 305. The cleaning unit may be a cleaning wipe, cleaning tape,

10 cleaning pen etc.

The device 100 may be made of stainless steel or aluminium. The device 100 may have any suitable dimension, such as for example 10x10x16 cm.

15 Figure 10 is a flow chart illustrating an example method for connecting a stored optical

connector 109 of a connectorized fiber cable 103, such as a pigtail, to a destination

adapter 205. At the start of the method, the gripping unit 101 is in the open position. The method comprises the following steps, which steps may be performed in any suitable order:

20

Step 1001

The device 100 checks the validity of the function. This means that it is checked that the state of the destination adapter 205 is "empty".

25 Step 1002

The device 100 is positioned in front of the destination adapter 205. Step 1003

The gripping unit 101 goes from the open position to the first closed position, grips the dust cap 30 207 and removes it from the destination adapter 205. The gripping unit 10 returns to the open position after the dust cap 207 has been removed from the adapter 205.

Step 1004

In some embodiments, the device 100 cleans the destination adapter 205 by using a cleaning

35 device. Step 1005

The device 100 retrieves information from the database of the next used storage position. The next used storage position is the position for the storage adapter 205 that the gripping unit 101 should go to, to get the optical fiber connector 109 of a connectorized fiber cable 103, e.g. pigtail.

Step 1006

The gripping unit 101 goes from the open position to the first closed position when it grips the connector 109 of the stored connectorized fiber cable 103, e.g. pigtail.

Step 1007

In some embodiments, the device 100 cleans the connector 109 on the connectorized fiber cable 103, e.g. pigtail, by using the cleaning device. Step 1008

The gripping unit 101 moves in the z-axis and patches, connects or plugs the optical connector 109 to the destination adapter 205. The gripping unit 101 returns to the open position after the connector 109 has been connected to the adapter 205. Step 1009

The gripping unit 101 goes from the open position to the second closed position, grips the cable 103 and routes the connectorized fiber cable 103 over the steering unit, e.g. drum.

Step 1010

The EMS sends instructions to the device 100 to go to idle position. Step 101 1

The device 100 changes the status of the storage adapter 205 position to empty in the database.

Step 1012

The EMS may flag an alarm when the number of used storage positions is less than for example four.

Step 1013 The device 100 changes the status of the destination adapter 205 to "connected" in the database.

Figure 11 is a flow chart illustrating an example method for providing test access for testing the optical link ending on the patch panel 201 to the customer or to the central office by using the testing unit 105. The example method illustrated in figure 1 1 may be performed by the testing unit 105 comprised in the device 100, or by a separate device comprising the testing unit 105. The method comprises the following steps, which steps may be preformed in any suitable order:

Step 1 101

In some embodiments, the device 100 cleans the test connector 107 by using the cleaning unit. Step 1 102

The device 100 positions itself to the adapter 205 where the optical link is to be tested. Step 1 103

The device 100 checks the status of the adapter 205. It retrieves information from a database whether the state of the adapter 205 is "connected". If the state is "connected", i.e. the connector 109 is connected to the adapter 205, the gripping unit 101 goes to the first closed position and grips, holds and protects the connector 109. If the state is not "connected", i.e. state = empty, the gripping unit 101 goes to the first closed position and removes the dust cap 207. In some embodiments, the gripping unit 101 may hold the dust cap 207 during the test procedure.

Step 1 104

The testing unit 105 connects the test connector 107 to the adapter 205. Step 1 105

The device 100 changes or moves the state of the adapter 205 in the database to "in test".

Step 1 106

The device 100 waits for a message that the test has been carried out. The test is carried out by at the central office. Step 1 107

The testing unit 105 disconnects the test connector 107.

Step 1 108

If the original state of the adapter 205 was "connected", the gripping unit 101 reconnects the original connector 109, or re-installs the dust cap 207 if the original state was empty.

Step 1 109

The device 100 changes the state of the adapter 205 back to "empty" or "connected".

Figure 12 describes a method seen from the perspective of the device 100. Figure 10 is a flow chart describing the present method in the device 100 for handling a connectorized fiber cable 103 in an optical fiber distribution system 200. As mentioned above, the optical fiber distribution system 200 comprising a patch panel 201. The patch panel 201 comprises at least a first adapter 205. The first adapter 205 is configured to receive an optical connector 109 and to provide optical connection to the optical connector 109 when connected to the first adapter 205. The connectorized fiber cable 105 is terminated at a first end with the optical connector 109. In some embodiments, the gripping unit 101 further comprises a guiding wire 122 positioned between the first finger 101 a and the second finger 101 b. In some embodiments, in front of the patch panel 201 , an x-axis extends in a plane. The plane is parallel to the patch panel 201. In some embodiments, a y-axis extends in the plane and is orthogonal to the x-axis. In some embodiments, the device 100 further comprises a linear guiding system 130. In some embodiments, the device 100 is an automated device for handling the connectorized fiber cable 103 in the optical fiber distribution system 200 in an automated way.

The method comprises the following steps to be performed by the device 100, which steps may as well be carried out in another suitable order than described below: Step 1201

The device 100 manipulates the connectorized fiber cable 103 with a gripping unit 101 .

In some embodiments, the gripping unit 101 comprises a first finger 101 a and a second finger 101 b. The first finger 101 a and the second finger 101 b are movably connected to each other. Step 1201 a

This is a substep of step 1201 . In some embodiments, the device 100 disconnects, with the gripping unit 101 , the optical connector 109 from the first adapter 205.

Step 1201 b

This is a substep of step 1201 , and a step performed before step 1201 a, after step 1201 a or instead of step 1201 a.

In some embodiments, the device 100 connects, with the gripping unit 101 , the optical connector 109 to the first adapter 205. Step 1201 c

This is a substep of step 1201 , and a step performed before step 1201 a, after step 1201 a, before step 1201 a, after step 1201 b, instead of step 1201 a, instead of step 1201 b or instead of step 1201 a and step 1201 b. The device 100 routes, using the gripping unit 101 , the connectorized fiber cable 103 over a steering unit, which steering unit is comprised in the patch panel 201.

Step 1201 d

This is a substep of step 1201. This is a step to be formed after steps 1201 a - 1200c or before one of the steps 1201 a- 1200c.

In some embodiments, the device positions the gripping unit 101 in a first closed position by distancing the first finger 101 a from the second finger 101 b by a first distance. The first closed position enables the gripping unit 101 to grip the optical connector 109.

Step 1201 e

This is a substep of step 1201. This is a step to be formed after steps 1201 a - 1200d or before one of the steps 1201 a- 1200d. In some embodiments, the device 100 positions the gripping unit 101 in a second closed position by distancing the first finger 101 a from second finger 101 b by a second distance. The second closed position enables the gripping unit 101 to grip the connectorized fiber cable 103. The second distance is shorter than the first distance; and

Step 1201f

This is a substep of step 1201. This is a step to be formed after steps 1201 a - 1200e or before one of the steps 1201 a- 1200e. In some embodiments, the device 100 positions the gripping unit 101 in an open position by distancing the first finger 101 a from the second finger 101 b by a third distance. The third distance is larger than each of the second distance and the first distance.

Step 1201 q

This is a substep of step 1201. This is a step to be formed after steps 1201 a - 1200e or before one of the steps 1201 a- 1200e.

In some embodiments, the device 100 positions, with a guiding wire 122, the

connectorized fiber cable 103 in the gripping unit 101 when the gripping unit 101 is in the second closed position.

Step 1201 h

This is a substep of step 1201. This is a step to be formed after steps 1201 a - 1200g or before one of the steps 1201 a- 1200g.

In some embodiments, the device rotates the gripping unit 101 at least partially around a rotating axis.

Step 1202

In some embodiments, the device 100 provides test access for the optical link ending on the patch panel 201 when the testing unit 105 is connected to the first adapter 205. In some embodiments, the testing unit 105 comprises an optical test connector 107. In the case where the testing unit 105 is a separate testing device, this step is always performed. Step 1202a

This is a substep of step 1202.

In some embodiments, the device 100 holds the optical connector 109, with the gripping unit 101 , in the closed position at the same time as the testing unit 105 connects the optical test connector 107 to the first adapter 205.

Step 1203

In some embodiments, the device 100 monitors the device 100 with a vision unit 1 13.

Step 1204

In some embodiments, the device 100 moves in the x-axis and the y-axis in the plane in front of to the patch panel 201 . In some embodiments, this step is performed within step 1201 c.

Step 1205

In some embodiments, the device 100 moves the gripping unit 101 and the testing unit 105 in a z-axis in front of the patch panel 201 . The z-axis is orthogonal to the plane, and the z-axis is orthogonal to the x-axis and the y-axis. In some embodiments, this step is performed within step 1201 c.

Step 1206

In some embodiments, the device 100 disconnects, with the gripping unit 101 , a dust cap 207 from the first adapter 205. In some embodiments, this step is performed before step 1201 .

Step 1207

In some embodiments, the device 100 connects, with the gripping unit 101 , the dust cap 207 to the first adapter 205.

Summarized, the device 100, which may be part of a (semi)-automated optical fiber distribution system 200 provides the possibility to manage the optical fiber cables 103, in an automated fashion. The device will allow the manipulation of at least one of the optical connectors 109 in an automated fashion. By this action, the physical fiber infrastructure is changed. In order to perform this operation, the following functions can be performed by the device 100:

Pick a, e.g. industry-standard, optical connector 109 out of an adapter 205 or other unit that holds this connector

- Place a, industry-standard, optical connector 109 in an adapter 205 and ensure the optical connection.

Catch a, connectorized, fiber cable 103 and route this cable 103 around steering units to avoid entangling of the cables 103 and optical losses due to sharp bends. Furthermore, the device 100 allows the testing of a fiber link with a dedicated testing unit 105. This so called 'test access' feature does not create any fiber management problems during or after the test. The testing of the fiber link may be performed by a testing unit 105 comprised in the device 100 or by a separate testing unit. The embodiments herein are not limited to the above described preferred embodiments. Various alternatives, modifications and equivalents may be used. Therefore, the above embodiments should not be taken as limiting the scope of the embodiments, which is defined by the appending claims. It should be emphasized that the term "comprises/comprising" when used in this specification is taken to specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps or components, but does not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, components or groups thereof. It should also be noted that the words "a" or "an" preceding an element do not exclude the presence of a plurality of such elements.

It should also be emphasised that the steps of the methods defined in the appended claims may, without departing from the embodiments herein, be performed in another order than the order in which they appear in the claims.

Claims

1 . A device (100) for handling a connectorized fiber cable (103) in an optical fiber distribution system (200), the optical fiber distribution system (100) comprising a patch panel (201 ), the patch panel (201 ) comprising at least a first adapter (205), the first adapter (205) being configured to receive an optical connector (109) and to provide optical connection to the optical connector (109) when connected to the first adapter (205), wherein the connectorized fiber cable (105) is terminated at a first end with the optical connector (109), the device (100) comprising:

a gripping unit (101 ) configured to manipulate the connectorized fiber cable (103).

2. The device (100) according to claim 1 , further comprising

a testing unit (105) configured to provide test access, to an optical link ending on the patch panel (201 ) when the testing unit (105) is connected to the first adapter (205).

3. The device (100) according to any of the claims 1 - 2, wherein the gripping unit (101 ) is further configured to:

disconnect the optical connector (109) from of the first adapter (205);

connect the optical connector (109) to the first adapter (205); and to

route the connectorized fiber cable (103) over a steering unit, which steering unit is comprised in the patch panel (201 ).

4. The device (100) according to any of the claims 1 -3, wherein the gripping unit (101 ) comprises a first finger (101 a) and a second finger (101 b), and wherein the first finger (101 a) and the second finger (101 b) are movably connected to each other.

5. The device (100) according to claim 4, wherein the gripping unit (101 ) is configured to take a first closed position when the first finger (101 a) and the second finger (101 b) are distanced by a first distance, which first closed position enables the gripping unit (101 ) to grip the optical connector (109); wherein the gripping unit (101 ) is further configured to take a second closed position when the first finger (101 a) and the second finger (101 b) are distanced by a second distance, which second closed position enables the gripping unit (101 ) to grip the connectorized fiber cable (103), which second distance is shorter than the first distance; and wherein the gripping unit (101 ) is further configured to take an open position when the first finger (101 a) and the second finger (101 b) are distanced by a third distance, which third distance is larger than each of the second distance and the first distance.

6. The device (100) according to claim 5, wherein the gripping unit (101 ) further comprises a guiding wire (122) positioned between the first finger (101 a) and the second finger (101 b), and wherein the guiding wire (122) is configured to position the connectorized fiber cable (103) in the gripping unit (101 ) when the gripping unit (101 ) is in the second closed position.

7. The device (100) according to any of the claims 5 - 6, wherein the testing unit (105) comprises an optical test connector (107) configured to be connected to the first adapter (205); and

wherein the gripping unit (101 ) is positioned at a distance from the testing unit (105) so that the gripping unit (101 ) is configured to hold the optical connector (109) in the first closed position at the same time as the testing unit (105) connects the optical test connector (107) to the first adapter (205).

8. The device (100) according to any of the claims 1 - 7, further comprising a vision unit (1 13) configured to monitor the device (100).

9. The device (100) according to any of the claims 1 - 8, wherein, in front of the patch panel (201 ), a x-axis extends in a plane, wherein plane is parallel to the patch panel (201 ), wherein a y-axis extends in the plane and is orthogonal to the x-axis; and wherein the device (100) is configured to move in the x-axis and the y-axis in the plane in front of the patch panel (201 ).

10. The device (100) according to any of the claims 1 - 9, wherein the gripping unit (101 ) is configured to rotate at least partially around an rotating axis.

1 1 . The device (100) according to any of the claims 9 - 10, further comprising a linear guiding system (130) enabling the gripping unit (101 ) to move in a z-axis in front of the patch panel (201 ), which z-axis is orthogonal to the plane, and which z-axis is orthogonal to the x-axis and the y-axis.

12. The device (100) according to any of the claims 9 - 10, further comprising a linear guiding system (130) enabling the testing unit (105) to move in a z-axis in front of the patch panel (201 ), which z-axis is orthogonal to the plane, and which z-axis is orthogonal to the x-axis and the y-axis.

5

13. The device (100) according to any of the claims 1 - 12, wherein the gripping unit (101 ) is further configured to:

disconnect a dust cap (207) from the first adapter (205); and

connect the dust cap (207) to the first adapter (205).

10

14. The device (100) according to any of the claims 1 - 12, wherein the device (100) is an automated device for handling the connectorized fiber cable (103) in the optical fiber distribution system (200) in an automated way.

15 15. A method in a device (100) for handling a connectorized fiber cable (103) in an optical fiber distribution system (200), the optical fiber distribution system (200) comprising a patch panel (201 ), the patch panel (201 ) comprising at least a first adapter (205), the first adapter (205) being configured to receive an optical connector (109) and to provide optical connection to the optical connector (109) when connected to the first adapter

20 (205), wherein the connectorized fiber cable (105) is terminated at a first end with the

optical connector (109), the method comprising:

manipulating (1201 ) the connectorized fiber cable (103) with a gripping unit (101 ).

16. The method according to claim 15, further comprising:

25 providing (1202) test access to an optical link ending on the patch panel (201 ) when a testing unit (105) the is connected to the first adapter (205).).

17. The method according to any of the claims 15 - 16, wherein the manipulating (1201 ) the connectorized fiber cable (103) with a gripping unit (101 ) further comprises:

30 disconnecting (1201 a), with the gripping unit (101 ), the optical connector (109) from the first adapter (205);

connecting (1201 b), with the gripping unit (101 ), the optical connector (109) to the first adapter (205); and

routing (1201 c), with the gripping unit (101 ), the connectorized fiber cable (103) 35 over a steering unit, which steering unit is comprised in the patch panel (201 ).

18. The method according to any of the claims 18 - 17, wherein the gripping unit (101 ) comprises a first finger (101 a) and a second finger (101 b), and wherein the first finger (101 a) and the second finger (101 b) are movably connected to each other.

19. The method according to claim 18, wherein the manipulating (1201 ) the

connectorized fiber cable (103) with a gripping unit (101 ) further comprises:

positioning (1201 d) the gripping unit (101 ) in a first closed position by distancing the first finger (101 a) from the second finger (101 b) by a first distance, which first closed position enables the gripping unit (101 ) to grip the optical connector (109);

positioning (1201 e) the gripping unit (101 ) in a second closed position by distancing the first finger (101 a) from second finger (101 b) by a second distance, which second closed position enables the gripping unit (101 ) to grip the connectorized fiber cable (103), which second distance is shorter than the first distance; and

positioning (1201f) the gripping unit (101 ) in an open position by distancing the first finger (101 a) from the second finger (101 b) by a third distance, which third distance is larger than each of the second distance and the first distance.

20. The method according to claim 19, wherein the gripping unit (101 ) further comprises a guiding wire (122) positioned between the first finger (101 a) and the second finger (101 b); and wherein the manipulating (1201 ) the connectorized fiber cable (103) with a gripping unit (101 )further comprises:

positioning (1201 g), with a guiding wire (122), the connectorized fiber cable (103) in the gripping unit (101 ) when the gripping unit (101 ) is in the second closed position.

21 . The method according to any of the claims 19 - 20, wherein the testing unit (105) comprises an optical test connector (107); and wherein the providing (1202) test access to the optical link ending on the patch panel (201 ) when a testing unit (105) is connected to the first adapter (205) further comprises:

providing (1202) test access to the optical link ending on the patch panel (201 ) when the optical test connector (107) is connected to the first adapter (205); and wherein the method further comprises:

holding (1202a) the optical connector (109), with the gripping unit (101 ), in the closed position at the same time as the testing unit (105) connects the optical test connector (107) to the first adapter (205).

22. The method according to any of the claims 15 - 21 , further comprising

monitoring (1203) the device (100) with a vision unit (1 13)

23. The method according to any of the claims 15 - 22, wherein, in front of the patch panel (201 ), an x-axis extends in a plane, wherein plane is parallel to the patch panel (201 ), wherein a y-axis extends in the plane and is orthogonal to the x-axis; and wherein method further comprises:

moving (1204) the device (100) in the x-axis and the y-axis in the plane in front of to the patch panel (201 ).

24. The method according to any of the claims 15 - 23, wherein the manipulating (1201 ) the connectorized fiber cable (103) with a gripping unit (101 ) further comprises:

rotating (1201 h) the gripping unit (101 ) at least partially about an rotating axis.

25. The method according to any of the claims 15 - 24, further comprising a linear guiding system (130); and wherein the method further comprising:

moving (1205) the gripping unit (101 ) in a z-axis in front of the patch panel (201 ), which z-axis is orthogonal to the plane, and which z-axis is orthogonal to the x-axis and the y-axis.

26. The method according to any of the claims 15 - 24, further comprising a linear guiding system (130); and wherein the method further comprising:

moving (1205) the testing unit (105) in a z-axis in front of the patch panel (201 ), which z-axis is orthogonal to the plane, and which z-axis is orthogonal to the x-axis and the y-axis.

27. The method according to any of the claims 15 - 26, further comprising

disconnecting (1206), with the gripping unit (101 ), a dust cap (207) from the first adapter (205); and

connecting (1207), with the gripping unit (101 ), the dust cap (207) to the first adapter (205).

28. The method according to any of the claims 15 - 27, wherein the device (100) is an automated device for handling the connectorized fiber cable (103) in the optical fiber distribution system (200) in an automated way.

5 29. A testing device (100) for handling a connectorized fiber cable (103) in an optical fiber distribution system (200), the optical fiber distribution system (100) comprising a patch panel (201 ), the patch panel (201 ) comprising at least a first adapter (205), the first adapter (205) being configured to receive an optical connector (109) and to provide optical connection to the optical connector (109) when connected to the first adapter

10 (205), wherein the connectorized fiber cable (105) is terminated at a first end with the optical connector (109), the testing device (100) comprising:

15 30. The testing device (100) according to claim 29, wherein the testing unit (105)

comprises an optical test connector (107) configured to be connected to the first adapter (205); and wherein a gripping unit (101 ) is positioned at a distance from the testing unit (105) so that the gripping unit (101 ) is configured to hold the optical connector (109) in a closed position at the same time as the testing unit (105) connects the optical test

20 connector (107) to the first adapter (205).

31. The testing device (100) according to any of the claims 29 - 30, further comprising a vision unit (1 13) configured to monitor the testing device (100).

25 32. The testing device (100) according to any of the claims 29 - 31 , wherein, in front of the patch panel (201 ), a x-axis extends in a plane, wherein plane is parallel to the patch panel (201 ), wherein a y-axis extends in the plane and is orthogonal to the x-axis; and wherein the testing device (100) is configured to move in the x-axis and the y-axis in the plane in front of the patch panel (201 ).

30

33. The testing device (100) according to any of the claims 29 - 32, further comprising a linear guiding system (130) enabling the testing unit (105) to move in a z-axis in front of the patch panel (201 ), which z-axis is orthogonal to the plane, and which z-axis is orthogonal to the x-axis and the y-axis.

35

34. The testing device (100) according to any of the claims 1 - 12, wherein the testing device (100) is an automated testing device for handling the connectorized fiber cable (103) in the optical fiber distribution system (200) in an automated way.

5 35. A method in a testing device (100) for handling a connectorized fiber cable (103) in an optical fiber distribution system (200), the optical fiber distribution system (200) comprising a patch panel (201 ), the patch panel (201 ) comprising at least a first adapter (205), the first adapter (205) being configured to receive an optical connector (109) and to provide optical connection to the optical connector (109) when connected to the first

10 adapter (205), wherein the connectorized fiber cable (105) is terminated at a first end with the optical connector (109), the method comprising:

providing (1202) test access to an optical link ending on the patch panel (201 ) when a testing unit (105) the is connected to the first adapter (205).).

15 36. The method according to claim 35, wherein the testing unit (105) comprises an optical test connector (107); and wherein the providing (1202) test access to the optical link ending on the patch panel (201 ) when a testing unit (105) is connected to the first adapter (205) further comprises:

providing (1202) test access to the optical link ending on the patch panel (201 )

20 when the optical test connector (107) is connected to the first adapter (205); and wherein the method further comprises:

holding (1202a) the optical connector (109), with a gripping unit (101 ), in the closed position at the same time as the testing unit (105) connects the optical test connector (107) to the first adapter (205).

25

37. The method according to any of the claims 35 - 36, further comprising

monitoring (1203) the testing device (100) with a vision unit (1 13)

38. The method according to any of the claims 35 -37, wherein, in front of the patch

30 panel (201 ), an x-axis extends in a plane, wherein plane is parallel to the patch panel

(201 ), wherein a y-axis extends in the plane and is orthogonal to the x-axis; and wherein method further comprises:

moving (1204) the testing device (100) in the x-axis and the y-axis in the plane in front of to the patch panel (201 ).

35

39. The method according to any of the claims 35 - 38, further comprising a linear guiding system (130); and wherein the method further comprising:

40. The method according to any of the claims 35 - 39, wherein the testing device (100) is an automated testing device for handling the connectorized fiber cable (103) in the optical fiber distribution system (200) in an automated way.