Inclined Patch Panel Frame with Truncated Drawers for Space Optimization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Data processing centers face challenges in optimizing the use of floor space due to the large dimensions required by traditional patch bays used for cable connections, which hinder efficient cable management and identification.

Innovation Solution

A cable connection device with a frame that includes inclined faces and truncated corners for patch drawers, allowing for compact arrangement and efficient cable patching, reducing the overall footprint while maintaining connectivity and visibility.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Area of stationary object

If traditional rectangular patch drawers with non-truncated corners are used, then cable connectivity and identification are maintained, but floor space occupation is excessive

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefloor space occupationVSAvoidcable identification and patching efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies asymmetry by truncating two opposite corners of the rectangular patch drawers, creating an asymmetric shape that optimizes space utilization. This asymmetric design allows the drawers to be arranged more efficiently on inclined faces, reducing the overall footprint of the patch bay while maintaining operational efficiency for cable identification and patching

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces inclined faces (at angles between 15°-75°) as a dimensional change from traditional orthogonal arrangements. This angular orientation allows truncated corner drawers to nest more efficiently, reducing floor space occupation while preserving cable accessibility and identification capabilities through the optimized geometric configuration

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Area of stationary object

If patch bay dimensions are reduced to save floor space, then floor space usage decreases, but cable density and connectivity may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefloor space usageVSAvoidcable density
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The truncated corner design enables a nesting arrangement where drawers are positioned at angular intervals on inclined faces. This nesting configuration maximizes the use of available space within the patch bay, allowing higher cable density to be achieved in a reduced footprint without compromising connectivity capabilities

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes geometric parameters by introducing specific truncation dimensions and inclined face angles (15°-75°). These parameter optimizations allow the patch bay to maintain adequate cable density and connectivity while significantly reducing the overall floor space requirement compared to traditional rectangular configurations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentEP2506596B1Device for connecting cables
Publication Date: 2013.09.18 NEXANS SA
  • EP2506596B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP2506596B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4

AI summary

The device i.e. patch panel (1), has a frame (2) including a horizontal rectangle trapezoidal section portion, and bracing boxes (3) arranged inside the trapezoidal section portion. The trapezoidal section portion has a small base (2e) and a large base (2f) arranged parellely, and two opposite non-parallel faces, where one of the non-parallel faces defines a vertical inclined face (2d) of the frame. A truncated corner of each box is located on a side of the large base, where another truncated corner of the box is located on a side of a face (2g) opposite to the inclined face.