Angled Bracket for Flush Mounting Network Cables
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for mounting wall devices, such as voice over IP telephones, often require disconnecting modular connectors from outlet boxes to accommodate cable tightness, leading to signal degradation due to cable crimping and loss of certification.
Innovation Solution
An improved bracket system with angled modular receiving portions and adjustable tabs allows for flush mounting of devices without disconnecting connectors, maintaining signal integrity by positioning modular connectors within the outlet box and minimizing cable crimping.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the modular connector is mounted flush with the wall using conventional methods, then the device can be securely mounted, but the cable must be routed through a tight space between the wall and device causing signal degradation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a third dimension by extending the outlet box outward from the wall surface, creating additional spatial dimension for cable routing. This allows the cable to enter the outlet box from the front rather than being constrained to route through the tight gap between wall and device, eliminating signal degradation while maintaining flush mounting appearance.
2Ease of operation
If the modular connector is disconnected from the outlet box to allow cable movement, then the cable routing issue is resolved, but the certification for data rate is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary action by pre-configuring the outlet box with an extended cavity and internal mounting structure before the cable is installed. This predetermined structure guides the cable through an optimal path from the front of the outlet box, ensuring proper cable routing is established before connection, thereby maintaining both cable flexibility and certification requirements.
3Reliability
If the modular connector is positioned within the outlet box rather than projecting from it, then cable crimping is minimized and signal integrity is maintained, but the connector is harder to access
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary element - the extended outlet box cavity with internal guide structures - that mediates between the modular connector positioned inside the box and the external cable. This intermediary structure provides a smooth transition path for the cable to reach the connector without sharp bends or crimping, maintaining signal integrity while keeping the connector accessible through the front opening of the extended box.
Data Source
AI summary
An improved bracket is utilized in a mounting system for a modular system connector used in connecting devices to cables such as network cable, coaxial cable, or fiber optic cable. The bracket has a pair of mounting portions for securing to an outlet box and a modular receiving portion for receiving a modular connector. The modular receiving portion is located in the outlet box and angled downward to allow the connection of the cable at such an angle and position that it can connect to a flush mounted device. Accordingly, the modular connector is not flush or projecting from the outlet such as in conventional devices and therefore is not required to be removed from its mounting in order to mount a flush mounted device such as a voice over IP telephone.