Adjustable Branching Module for Data Center Wiring Flexibility

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing breakout cables for data centers have a fixed branching position, making it impossible to adjust the length of separated cables according to the positional relationship between boards, limiting flexibility in cable connections.

Innovation Solution

A wiring member with a branching module that can be adjusted by switching between a fixed and movable state, allowing the position of the branching module to be changed based on the positional relationship between host apparatuses, utilizing a branching module with a first and second cable insertion portion and an elastic member for secure and flexible cable management.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the branching position of the cable module is set in advance, then the cable structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the cable length cannot be adjusted according to the positional relationship between boards

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadjustability of branching positionVSAvoidcomplexity of cable module structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The branching module is designed to be movable along the cable module rather than fixed at a predetermined position. The cable module can dynamically adjust the branching position to match different positional relationships between boards, transforming a static structure into a dynamic one that adapts to various installation scenarios.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The cable module is divided into multiple segments with the branching module as a separable component. This segmentation allows the branching module to be positioned at different locations along the cable module, enabling flexible adjustment while maintaining the integrity of individual components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If the branching module is made movable to adjust cable lengths, then the adaptability to different board positions is improved, but the risk of cable entanglement increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadjustability of cable lengthVSAvoidcable entanglement
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The cable module employs a flexible protective sheath that envelops the cables and branching module. This flexible shell allows the cables to move and adjust their positions without becoming entangled, while still providing protection and maintaining an organized appearance throughout the adjustable range.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Solution Approach 2:

The system incorporates dynamic cable management features that allow cables to move flexibly with the adjustable branching module. The cables are designed to follow the movement of the branching module smoothly, preventing tangling while maintaining connectivity and organization during position changes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS9739967B2Wiring member
Publication Date: 2017.08.22 SUMITOMO ELECTRIC INDUSTRIES LTD
  • US9739967B2 patent drawing
  • US9739967B2 patent drawing
  • US9739967B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A wiring member comprises a first module having a first communication unit, second modules having respective second communication units, a cable module having cables which connect the first communication unit to the second communication units, and a branching module which is disposed at a prescribed position in the cable module. The branching module has a first cable insertion portion in which the cables are inserted in bundled form and a second cable insertion portion in which the cables are inserted separately, and the branching module is fixed to at least one of the cables in a first state and is made movable relative to the cables in a second state. One end portions of the cables are connected to the first module in bundled form and the other end portions of the cables are connected to the respective second modules separately.