Field-Applicable Connection Hoods for Networking Cables

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing field-terminable traceable networking cables require significant time and manpower for routine maintenance functions, such as adding or changing computers, due to the complexity of tracing connections throughout large networks.

Innovation Solution

The development of field-applicable connection hoods for networking cables, which include a connector, conductive members, an electrically activated telltale, and a switch, allowing for electrical communication without soldering, and a separator mechanism to prevent crosstalk, enabling easy field termination and tracing of cables.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If field-terminable traceable networking cables are used, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of field terminationVSAvoidcable structure complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The cable system is divided into modular components: connection hoods with conductive members for tracer wire attachment, separator mechanisms for conductor organization, and telltale devices for traceability. Each component performs a specific function, allowing field termination without requiring complex integrated systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Conductive members serve as intermediaries between tracer wires and the cable conductors, enabling electrical connection without direct soldering. The separator mechanism acts as an intermediary structure that organizes conductors within the connector housing, simplifying the termination process.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Productivity

If connection hoods with conductive members are used for field termination, then productivity is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefield termination speedVSAvoidconductive member alignment precision

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

Conductive members are pre-positioned and secured within the connection hood during manufacturing, with slots or openings precisely formed to receive tracer wires. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for complex field alignment operations, allowing rapid termination while maintaining connection accuracy.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The invention replaces traditional mechanical soldering processes with electrical contact through conductive members. Tracer wires are attached via conductive adhesive or pressure contact rather than requiring precise mechanical alignment and soldering, reducing both manufacturing precision requirements and field termination time.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Reliability

If separator mechanisms are added to prevent crosstalk, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesignal transmission reliabilityVSAvoidconnector structure complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The separator mechanism is merged with the connector housing as an integrated component rather than a separate addition. The separator walls are formed as part of the connector body, organizing conductors into distinct channels while maintaining a compact overall structure that does not significantly increase device complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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

Enables efficient field termination and tracing of networking cables, reducing the time and manpower required for maintenance by allowing users to connect and disconnect tracer wires without soldering and minimizing crosstalk, thus simplifying the process of managing large networks.

Implementation Method 1

two conductive members each configured to be coupled without soldering to a tracer wire to enable electrical communication between the tracer wire and the conductive tab

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectrical Conduction: Conduction (electrical)

Implementation Method 2

an electrically activated telltale

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectrical Signal Detection: Electric Field

Data Source

PatentUS10050389B2Field-terminable traceable cables, components, kits, and methods

Publication Date: 2018.08.14 MERTEK IND LLC

AI summary

Disclosed are field-terminable traceable (e.g., networking) cables and cable components (e.g., field-applicable connection hoods), as well as related kits and methods. For example, in one embodiment of a field-applicable connection hood for a networking cable, the connection hood comprises: a connector or plug configured to be coupled to a port or outlet; two conductive tabs each configured to be coupled without, soldering to a tracer wire to enable electrical communication between the tracer wire and the conductive tab; an electrically activated telltale; and a switch configured to be actuated to enable electrical communication between the two conductive tabs and the telltale.