Low Profile Access Floor Network Distribution System
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Solution Overview
Problem
The high cost of installing and maintaining copper wire telecommunication networks in buildings is exacerbated by increasing demand for copper, frequent changes in network bandwidth requirements, and regulatory demands for removing outdated cabling, making it difficult and expensive to adapt existing layouts.
Innovation Solution
A low profile access floor network distribution system incorporating a rigid switch box with air vents and adjustable mounting brackets to house a high-speed network switch, allowing for efficient installation and maintenance of both copper and fiber optic cables, compatible with current and future network standards.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If copper wire telecommunication networks are installed and maintained in buildings, then telecommunication connectivity is provided, but installation and maintenance costs increase dramatically
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the telecommunication network into modular components: network switches distributed in floor access panels, zone distribution frames, and building main distribution frames. This segmentation allows independent installation, maintenance, and replacement of individual components without affecting the entire network, reducing overall installation and maintenance costs while maintaining connectivity reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces fiber optic cables as an intermediary medium between building infrastructure and telecommunication network equipment. Fiber optics replace expensive copper wiring in horizontal cabling, providing cost-effective high-speed connectivity while maintaining network reliability through superior transmission properties and immunity to electromagnetic interference.
2Productivity
If network bandwidth requirements change frequently, then network performance can be optimized, but the cost of removing and installing new cabling increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional copper mechanical cabling systems with fiber optic infrastructure. Fiber optics provide vastly superior bandwidth capacity and are future-proof against increasing data transmission demands. This substitution allows network bandwidth to be upgraded through equipment changes rather than physical cabling replacement, dramatically improving adaptability to changing network requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The fiber optic infrastructure is designed to support multiple network standards and protocols (10BASE-T, 100BASE-TX, 1000BASE-T, Gigabit Ethernet, Fast Ethernet) through a single universal physical medium. This multi-functionality allows the same cabling infrastructure to adapt to evolving network bandwidth requirements without requiring physical reinstallation, enhancing both productivity and adaptability.
3Reliability
If outdated communication cabling is removed from buildings per regulatory requirements, then code compliance is achieved, but installation costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of cabling material from copper to fiber optic. This parameter change simultaneously achieves code compliance (by eliminating outdated copper cabling) and reduces installation costs (through the lower cost of fiber optic materials and simplified installation procedures). The fiber optic infrastructure also provides future-proof bandwidth capacity, eliminating the need for repeated upgrades.
Data Source
AI summary
An access floor line distribution system that includes a low profile access floor system with a low profile switch box placed inside a switch box vault formed in the floor system. The access floor system is designed to be six inches or less in height and includes support props formed in a grid pattern and covered by floor panels. The props are sufficiently spaced apart to form a vault in the floor system designed to house the switch box. Formed on the switch box is a telecommunication cable opening, and a duplex electrical plug opening. Formed on the opposite side of the switch box is a plurality of knockouts opening through which network cables extend. A plurality of air vents are formed on the sides of the box to increase air flow and heat distribution. Located inside the switch box is a low profile network switch. The network switch includes a main telecommunication input port and a power cable on one surface and plurality of network ports on an opposite surface. Attached to the inside surface of the switch box is at least one adjustable bracket that holds the network switch it in a fixed position inside the switch box. Disposed over the top opening of the box is a rigid cover which is held in position by suitable connectors.