Project number
25015
Organization
Microsoft
Offering
ENGR498-F2024-S2025
AOCs are essential for high-speed data transmission in modern data centers. However, they are difficult to install. Traditionally, routing these fragile cables requires technicians to climb ladders and manually guide them through overhead trays. This poses safety risks and is inefficient. For this project, the team developed a pulley system that alleviates these problems.
The design features three main assemblies: the mounting assembly, the cable interface and the deployment system. The mounting assembly securely attaches to the standard 24-inch-wide cable tray to ensure stability during operation. The cable interface, designed to protect the delicate transceivers located at the end of AOCs, uses a boat-like structure with magnets and Velcro for secure transportation. Finally, the deployment system incorporates a pulley mechanism – which can be operated manually or with a power tool – to efficiently move cables along the trays. When these three components are combined, operators can use the system to safely and efficiently install AOCs by loading the cable transceivers in the cable interface and pulling it to its designated location using the deployment system.
The design features three main assemblies: the mounting assembly, the cable interface and the deployment system. The mounting assembly securely attaches to the standard 24-inch-wide cable tray to ensure stability during operation. The cable interface, designed to protect the delicate transceivers located at the end of AOCs, uses a boat-like structure with magnets and Velcro for secure transportation. Finally, the deployment system incorporates a pulley mechanism – which can be operated manually or with a power tool – to efficiently move cables along the trays. When these three components are combined, operators can use the system to safely and efficiently install AOCs by loading the cable transceivers in the cable interface and pulling it to its designated location using the deployment system.