Cable Organizer With Pivot Latch Mechanism For Mass Plug Insertion

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing cable management devices fail to efficiently organize patch cords for mass insertion and removal in telecom rooms and data centers due to differences in switch and patch panel jack configurations, and lack the ability for individual plug removal without disturbing others.

Innovation Solution

A cable organizer with pivot latch mechanisms and a removal tool that allows for mass insertion and removal of RJ45 plugs into patch panels or switches, enabling secure engagement and easy release of plugs without affecting other attached cords.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If multiple patch cables are organized into a cable assembly for mass insertion and removal, then installation time is significantly reduced, but the ability to troubleshoot individual patch cords becomes difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation speedVSAvoidindividual patch cord troubleshooting
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of repair

Solution Approach 1:

The cable assembly is segmented into individual plug units that can be independently manipulated. Each plug is separated from others in the assembly, allowing individual removal and installation while maintaining the organized structure of the full assembly for mass deployment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Productivity

If a cable connector holder continuously depresses inner plug latches to engage multiple connectors, then mass connection is achieved, but proper engagement of inner plugs is compromised and latches may fail over time

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemass connection capabilityVSAvoidplug engagement reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The latch mechanism transitions from a static continuous-depression design to a dynamic selective-action design. The removable tool allows latches to be actuated only when needed, rather than maintaining continuous pressure, enabling proper engagement while preventing plastic creep and latch failure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

A removable tool acts as an intermediary between the user and the latch mechanisms. This tool selectively actuates individual latches or groups of latches, providing controlled engagement force without the continuous depression that causes plastic deformation and latch failure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Productivity

If switch port jacks are configured in opposed rows for mass plug insertion, then cable assembly design becomes complex due to different spacing requirements compared to patch panels

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemass plug insertion efficiencyVSAvoidcable assembly design complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The cable assembly is designed with universal adaptability to accommodate both switch port configurations (opposed rows) and patch panel configurations (same-row arrangement). The modular plug units can be arranged in different patterns within the same assembly, allowing one assembly design to serve multiple equipment types.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Facilitates efficient cable management by allowing mass insertion and removal of plugs, while enabling individual plug removal without disturbing others, reducing installation time and improving reliability.

Implementation Method 1

The latch mechanisms are connected to the ports by a pivot element. The latch mechanism enables the plugs to be secured and released, as desired, with respect to the cable organizer.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPivot: Hinge

Data Source

PatentUS9705250B2Patch cord plug organizer
Publication Date: 2017.07.11 PANDUIT CORP
  • US9705250B2 patent drawing
  • US9705250B2 patent drawing
  • US9705250B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention is directed to a cable organizer. The cable organizer has a base with a plurality of ports. Each port is configured to hold a plug extending from a patch cord. The cable organizer also has a plurality of flanges connected to the base and a plurality of latch mechanisms. Each flange defines a side of one of the ports and each latch mechanism is connected to the ports by a pivot element.