Foldable Patch Panel With Pivot Unit For Compact Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing patch panels are not foldable, limiting their ability to minimize dimensions and adapt to different configurations, which hinders transportation convenience and flexibility in accommodating cabling needs.
Innovation Solution
A foldable patch panel design featuring a first frame, a second frame, and a pivot unit that allows the frames to rotate and engage separably, forming an obtuse angle in an open configuration and folding parallel to each other, reducing overall dimensions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the patch panel uses a fixed frame structure, then the structural integrity is maintained, but the dimension cannot be minimized and transportation convenience is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patch panel is divided into a first frame and a second frame that can be separated and folded relative to each other. The first frame includes a first panel and a first flange, while the second frame includes a second panel and a second flange. These segmented components can be folded together to minimize the overall dimension for convenient transportation, and then unfolded to form the complete patch panel structure for use.
Solution Approach 2:
The patch panel transitions from a static fixed structure to a dynamic foldable structure. The first frame and second frame are connected through a rack and pivot unit, allowing them to rotate and fold relative to each other. This dynamic capability enables the patch panel to change its configuration between an expanded operational state and a compact transportation state, resolving the contradiction between maintaining structural integrity and minimizing dimension.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the patch panel uses a fixed angled frame, then the cabling space is provided, but the flexibility for different configurations is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The frame structure incorporates a pivot unit with a rack and pivot that enables the first frame and second frame to rotate relative to each other. This dynamic mechanism allows the patch panel to achieve different configurations including an obtuse angle configuration for providing cabling space, and a folded configuration for minimizing dimension. The same dynamic structure provides configuration flexibility without requiring multiple separate fixed structures, thus managing device complexity effectively.
Solution Approach 2:
The foldable frame structure serves multiple functions: it provides cabling space when unfolded at an obtuse angle, minimizes dimension when folded for transportation, and offers configuration flexibility to adapt to different needs. This universal design replaces what would otherwise require multiple specialized fixed structures, achieving adaptability while controlling overall device complexity through a single multi-functional mechanism.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a foldable patch panel. The foldable patch panel includes a first frame, a second frame, and a pivot unit. The pivot unit is connected to the first frame and the second frame, respectively, so that spinning center of the first frame and the second frame is the pivot unit. Besides, the first frame and the second frame are separably engaged with each other and form an obtuse angle.