Connector Support Assembly Air Channeling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Thermal management in electrical communication systems is hindered by air flow obstructions caused by numerous electrical devices, connectors, and cables, leading to overheating and degraded performance due to insufficient heat dissipation.
Innovation Solution
A connector support assembly with an enclosure and spacers that provide unimpeded air flow by channeling air through the assembly, allowing it to exit through windows in the panels, thereby reducing obstructions and enhancing heat dissipation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If fans or air movers are installed to provide air flow through the electrical communication system, then heat dissipation is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector support assembly is segmented into multiple panels with integrated flow channels that create dedicated air flow paths. The enclosure is divided into front and rear segments with the flow channel extending through both, allowing air to be channeled efficiently through the assembly without requiring high-power air movers.
Solution Approach 2:
The flow channel acts as an intermediary structure that mediates air flow between the front and rear of the enclosure. It provides a controlled pathway that guides air flow through the cavity, reducing turbulence and improving heat dissipation efficiency without requiring additional energy input.
2Productivity
If electrical devices and connectors are densely arranged to increase data transfer capacity, then productivity is improved, but air flow obstruction increases
Solution Approach 1:
The flow channel extends in the longitudinal dimension through the enclosure, creating a three-dimensional air flow path that bypasses the two-dimensional array of connectors and devices. This dimensional approach allows air to flow through the depth of the assembly rather than being blocked by the planar arrangement of components.
Solution Approach 2:
The panels are designed with localized flow channels at specific positions where air flow is needed. The first panel has a window and the second panel has a corresponding flow channel outlet, creating localized air flow paths that navigate through the dense connector arrangement without disrupting the overall device layout.
3Stability of the object's composition
If spacers are added to mechanically couple panels and support connectors, then structural stability is improved, but air flow obstruction increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spacer is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical coupling between panels for structural stability, supports electrical connectors through recesses, and defines flow channels for air flow. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate air flow structures that would add additional obstructions.
Solution Approach 2:
The structural support function and air flow channeling function are merged into a single spacer component. The spacer's body incorporates both the mechanical coupling features and the flow channel definition, combining what would traditionally be separate elements into one integrated structure.
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
The solution increases air flow rates and volume coverage, reduces the power requirement for air movers, and improves the operational efficiency and heat dissipation of electrical devices by minimizing obstructions and redirecting air flow effectively.
Implementation Method 1
The spacer defines a flow channel therethrough that extends from an inlet of the spacer located at the front end of the enclosure. The flow channel of the spacer is fluidly connected to the window of the first panel to provide unimpeded flow through the front end of the enclosure that enters the cavity through the inlet of the spacer and exits the cavity through the window.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector support assembly includes an enclosure, first and second electrical connectors, and a spacer. The enclosure includes a first panel and a second panel spaced apart from each other to define a cavity therebetween. The first and second connectors are at a front end of the enclosure and at least partially in the cavity. The spacer is interposed between the first and second electrical connectors and mechanically coupled to both the first and second panels. The spacer defines a flow channel therethrough that extends from an inlet of the spacer located at the front end of the enclosure. The flow channel of the spacer is fluidly connected to a window defined through the first panel to provide unimpeded flow through the front end of the enclosure that enters the cavity through the inlet of the spacer and exits the cavity through the window.