Angled Patch Panel Assembly for Cable Length Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
The increasing demand for copper and other precious metals drives up costs for coaxial cables used in patch panels, leading to higher equipment costs due to strain on the global metal supply chain, and existing patch panel designs do not efficiently manage cabling, resulting in longer infrastructure cabling requirements.
Innovation Solution
A three-dimensional angled patch panel assembly with a unitary structure comprising first and second panel elements and a third panel element, featuring apertures and flange members for secure mounting, which reduces cabling length by clustering ports near the edge and providing an air dam for improved airflow, thereby minimizing cabling needs and thermal management issues.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of substance
If traditional patch panels use standard port locations and cable routing, then ease of installation is maintained, but infrastructure cabling length increases leading to higher costs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a three-dimensional angled design where patch panel elements are positioned at angles (e.g., 45 degrees) relative to the rack face, creating vertical and horizontal offsets. This dimensional change allows cables to route more directly from ports to equipment, reducing overall cable length by approximately 4.5 inches per port while maintaining standard installation procedures through the use of angled mounting brackets and repositioned apertures.
2Temperature
If patch panels are mounted flat against the rack, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but airflow and thermal management are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates vertical separation between patch panel elements by mounting them at angles, which opens up airflow channels behind and between panels. This three-dimensional configuration allows cooling air to circulate more effectively through the rack, removing heat from equipment while the modular angled design keeps structural complexity manageable through standardized bracket systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the patch panel into multiple separate elements (first patch panel element, second patch panel element, third patch panel element) that can be independently mounted at different angles and positions. This segmentation allows each element to be optimized for both thermal access and cable routing, with gaps between elements serving as airflow channels while maintaining organizational structure.
Data Source
AI summary
In one example embodiment, a panel assembly is provided that includes a first panel element having a first side edge to be attached to a communications rack, where the first panel element includes a first plurality of apertures proximate to the first side edge. The panel assembly also includes a second panel element having a second side edge to be attached to the communications rack, where the second panel element includes a second plurality of apertures proximate to the second side edge. The panel assembly also includes a third patch panel element provided between the first panel element and the second panel element.