Angled Patch Panel Connector Modules for Bend Radius Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing patch panels do not adequately address the issue of cable management, particularly with copper-based, twisted pair cables, which can suffer from damage or performance loss due to excessive bending, especially at higher frequencies.
Innovation Solution
A telecommunications patch panel design featuring a connector module with a rotatable mounting system, allowing for angled orientation of connector modules relative to the frame member, which includes tabs to prevent over-rotation and maintain proper cable positioning to avoid excessive bending.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If connector modules are mounted at fixed right angles to the frame member, then installation is simple and straightforward, but cables are forced to bend at sharp angles which can damage the cable and degrade signal performance
Solution Approach 1:
The connector module is made rotatable relative to the frame member through a latch mechanism that allows movement between locked positions. This dynamic capability enables the connector to be oriented at different angles (e.g., 0 degrees or 90 degrees) to accommodate cable routing requirements while maintaining a secure locked position during use, thereby preventing cable damage and signal degradation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If connector modules are allowed to rotate freely, then cable routing flexibility is improved, but the connector may rotate to incorrect angles which compromises cable management and performance
Solution Approach 1:
The frame member includes pre-positioned tabs at specific locations that correspond to desired connector orientations (e.g., 0 degrees and 90 degrees). These tabs are placed in advance during manufacturing to guide the connector module to the correct angular positions during installation, ensuring proper orientation without requiring complex alignment procedures or tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch mechanism acts as an intermediary between the connector module and the frame member tabs. It controls the rotation movement, allowing the connector to be positioned at different angles while preventing over-rotation beyond the intended positions. The latch engages with the tabs to lock the connector at precise orientations, ensuring both flexibility and accuracy.
3Device complexity
If connector modules are mounted in fixed positions, then structural simplicity is maintained, but cable strain relief is insufficient leading to potential cable damage
Solution Approach 1:
The rotatable connector module provides dynamic positioning capability that allows cables to be routed at optimal angles away from sharp bends and excessive strain. By enabling the connector to be oriented at different angles (0 or 90 degrees), the system reduces cable stress without requiring additional cable management components, maintaining structural simplicity while protecting against cable damage.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates generally to a telecommunications patch panel comprising a connector module and a frame member. The connector module has a front face and an opposite facing rear face. The front face includes a connector jack for receiving a plug of a first conductive wire. The rear face includes a connection location for connecting to a second conductive wire. The connector module defines an axis of rotation generally parallel to the front face. The frame member has a front face and a plurality of tabs on the front face. The connector module is rotatably mounted to the frame member for movement about the rotation axis, and the plurality of tabs engage with the rear face of the connector module to prevent over-rotation of the connector module.