Data Transfer Connector With Close-Range Wireless Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for establishing data communication links between server management consoles and servers, such as Bluetooth and WiFi, are time-consuming and require manual proximity, making it cumbersome for technicians to perform data transfers, especially in server environments where devices are at varying heights, and longer interactions are needed for operations like firmware updates or diagnostics.
Innovation Solution
A data transfer connector with a coupling mechanism that securely attaches to a server, positioning a communication module for close-range wireless communication, such as NFC or IR, allowing for efficient data transfer between devices without the need for manual proximity maintenance, and an adjustable telescopic cable for comfortable operation at different heights.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If Bluetooth or WiFi protocols are used for data transfer, then wireless communication is achieved, but connection establishment time is prolonged (20-30 seconds for Bluetooth, prolonged for WiFi)
Solution Approach 1:
The connector establishes close-range wireless communication capability in advance by positioning the communication module in proximity to the server's wireless communication device through mechanical coupling. This preliminary positioning enables rapid connection establishment (within 1 second) compared to traditional Bluetooth or WiFi pairing, as the devices are already in optimal communication range when the connector is attached.
2Loss of time
If NFC protocol is used for rapid connection, then connection time is reduced to 1/10th of a second, but devices must be brought into very close proximity (less than 4 cm)
Solution Approach 1:
The connector serves as an intermediary device that bridges the management console and server. It couples to the server via a coupling mechanism and positions its communication module in close proximity to the server's wireless communication device, enabling rapid NFC-like connection (1/10th of a second) without requiring the technician to manually hold the console close to the server for extended periods.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector pre-positions the communication module in the optimal location for close-range wireless communication by mechanically coupling to the server. This preliminary positioning maintains the required close proximity (less than 4 cm) automatically throughout the data transfer process, eliminating the need for manual proximity maintenance by the technician.
3Reliability
If technician holds management console close to server for extended operations, then close-range wireless communication is achieved, but technician experiences strain and discomfort especially for servers at varying heights
Solution Approach 1:
The connector acts as a mediator that remains attached to the server via a coupling mechanism, maintaining stable close-range wireless communication throughout the data transfer process. The technician interacts with the management console remotely through wireless connection, eliminating the need to physically hold the console close to the server, especially beneficial for servers at varying heights in rack-mounted configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector pre-establishes and maintains the close-range wireless communication link by positioning its communication module in proximity to the server's communication device through mechanical coupling. This preliminary positioning ensures communication stability throughout extended operations (firmware updates, diagnostics) without requiring the technician to maintain physical proximity, thereby eliminating technician strain and discomfort.
4Adaptability or versatility
If cable length is extended to reach servers at different heights, then accessibility is improved, but cable management becomes complex and operation becomes cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces the mechanical cable connection system with a wireless communication system. The connector establishes close-range wireless communication (NFC, IR, or other short-range protocols) between the management console and server, eliminating the need for long physical cables and complex cable management, while maintaining adaptability to servers at various heights through wireless connectivity.
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 rapid and efficient data transfer between devices, reducing the strain and time required for technicians, especially in high-server environments, by enabling secure, close-range communication and adjustable connectivity for comfortable access to servers at various heights.
Implementation Method 1
coupling the coupling mechanism to the first data processing device positions the communication module with respect to the first data processing device to effect close-range wireless communication between the communication module and the first data processing device
Data Source
AI summary
A connector for data transfer is provided. The connector comprises a connector body having a coupling mechanism, and a communication module for communicating with a first data processing device and a second data processing device. The communication module is arranged with respect to the connector body such that upon the coupling mechanism being coupled to the first data processing device, the communication module is positioned with respect to the first data processing device to effect close-range wireless communication between them to enable a data transfer between the first and second data processing device. A data processing system and a method of carrying out data transfer between a first and second data processing device are also provided.