Latching Solution Supports Expansion of Fiber Optics

Reliable Internet connections are based on a variety of components. One of these is the fiber optics network infrastructure. A case study with our customer Glasfaser Nordwest shows what is involved in latching solutions on telecommunication cabinets.

Glasfaser Nordwest is a joint venture founded by Deutsche Telekom and EWE. The startup is expanding the fiber optics infrastructure in northwest Germany and has set itself the goal of supplying 1.5 million households and companies with fiber optics by 2031 – a major contribution to digitization.

The security of the infrastructure plays a crucial role in this, since that is the only way to guarantee the stability of the network. Fiber optic cables are installed in outdoor telecommunication cabinets and must therefore be protected against vandalism. Another challenge was access management to the cabinets. Sophie Jochens from the technology department of Glasfaser Nordwest explains: "We looked for a solution that would allow employees and partner companies to have individual and digital access. At the same time, we wanted to use no batteries for the power supply."

Based on these requirements, DIRAK and iLOQ collaborated as partners to develop an optimum locking solution. The swinghandle meets the requirements of resistance class 2 and is thus able to withstand opportunistic vandalism damage. The iLOQ cylinder also offers the perfect solution for access control: authorization can be issued remotely at any time. In addition, the cylinder is supplied with power via a smartphone so that environmentally harmful batteries are not needed.

The locking system also has impressive handling features, for example the handle is easy to open: After the cylinder is released by the smartphone, it can be activated and the swinghandle springs open thanks to the integrated spring. That means it is also externally visible that the handle has been opened. When the handle closes, it engages audibly in the dish without activating the cylinder again. To ensure that the cylinder cannot be used as a climbing aid or step, DIRAK adapted the swinghandle as a special solution so that the handle completely encases the iLOQ cylinder. This makes the cylinder especially durable in outdoor applications.

Tomke Hollander: "With this system we have found a solution that is fit for the future and meets the requirements for outdoor applications. The latches do what was promised and protect our telecommunication cabinets. This in turn ensures a reliable and stable Internet connection. We would like to thank DIRAK and iLOQ for this development."