Cable Port Identification System with Magnified Label Covers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional multi-port stations for communication and data cabling management face challenges in identifying which cable is connected to which equipment or circuit, leading to complex tracking and potential mismanagement.
Innovation Solution
A cable port identification system that includes label retention and protection, with optional magnification features, using elongated transparent covers and pegs to securely attach labels to the multi-port stations, ensuring clear and organized labeling of connectors and cabling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If conventional multi-port stations are used without labeling systems, then the device structure remains simple, but cable identification and tracking become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces label implementations as intermediary elements between the multi-port station and the cables. These labels serve as mediators that carry identification information without fundamentally altering the station's core structure. The labels can be attached to connectors or positioned on the station face, providing cable identification while maintaining structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs nested label structures where multiple labeling layers can be implemented. For example, a first label can be positioned on the station face while a second label is attached to the connector itself. These nested labels provide redundant identification information at different locations, ensuring cable tracking without adding significant structural complexity.
2Reliability
If labels are attached to connectors without protection, then the labeling system remains simple, but labels may become loose or damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a clear protective cover in the form of a thin film or shell that encapsulates the label. This cover is flexible enough to conform to the connector shape while providing protection. The cover can be made of transparent material that allows the label information to remain visible while shielding the label from physical damage and preventing it from becoming loose.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the label and protective cover into an integrated labeling assembly. Rather than treating the label and protection as separate components, they are merged into a single unit that can be attached to the connector as one piece. This integration reduces the number of separate parts while maintaining both label retention and visibility.
3Illumination intensity
If small labels are used on multi-port stations, then the station structure remains compact, but label readability becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent addresses readability by transitioning from a two-dimensional label surface to a three-dimensional optical enhancement. The clear cover is designed with optical properties (such as curvature or magnification capability) that manipulate light to enlarge the appearance of the label text. This allows small labels to be physically compact while appearing larger and more readable through optical dimensionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses transparent or translucent materials for the protective cover that optimize light transmission and reflection. By carefully selecting materials with specific optical properties, the label text becomes more visible and legible. The cover may incorporate optical enhancements that increase contrast or brightness of the label information without adding physical size.
Data Source
AI summary
A cable port identification system is disclosed that provides identification facilities for communication, data, other cabling and/or wires and the connectors to which they are coupled found in a multi-port station. In some implementations the identification facilities can include label retention and protection and may also include label magnification.