Intelligent Module for Passive Patch Panel Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Standard passive patch panels in data centers cannot be easily converted into intelligent panels without significant cost, as they were not designed to accommodate additional modules with sensors and diodes.
Innovation Solution
An intelligent module with a strip-shaped body, presence sensors, and diodes that can be mounted on standard passive panels using fixing lugs and clamps, allowing it to be attached to the side uprights of the cabinet, enabling the integration of sensors and diodes above the ports while maintaining access for data transfer cables.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If commercially available intelligent patch panels are used, then intelligent monitoring capabilities are achieved, but system cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The intelligent panel is divided into two independent parts: the existing passive panel structure and a separate intelligent module containing sensors, diodes, and electronics. This segmentation allows the intelligent functionality to be added as an optional attachment rather than requiring complete replacement of the panel, significantly reducing system cost while maintaining monitoring capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the passive panel with a separate intelligent module that contains presence sensors, diodes, and communication interfaces. The module is designed to attach to the existing panel structure, combining the cable management functionality of the passive panel with the monitoring capabilities of the intelligent module, thereby achieving intelligent functionality without significant cost increase.
2Reliability
If an additional intelligent module is added to existing passive panels, then intelligent functionality is achieved, but the panel structure must be specifically designed to accommodate the module
Solution Approach 1:
The intelligent module is designed with universal mounting features that can attach to standard panel structures without requiring custom modifications. The module uses generic attachment mechanisms such as clips, screws, or adhesive mounts that are compatible with common panel designs, making it universally applicable to existing passive panels while maintaining intelligent functionality.
3Reliability
If the intelligent module is mounted on the panel, then monitoring capabilities are enhanced, but cable access and connection operations may be obstructed
Solution Approach 1:
The intelligent module is positioned in a spatial arrangement that utilizes the vertical or lateral space above or beside the cable access areas rather than blocking them. The module is mounted on the panel surface or attached to the rear structure, placing sensors and diodes in positions that monitor cable connections without interfering with the horizontal insertion and removal of cables, thus maintaining ease of operation.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to an intelligent module (1) for equipping a passive panel (12) of a patch panel cabinet comprising two lateral uprights (16, 17) supporting a series of passive panels. The module (1) comprises a strip-shaped body (2) and two mounting tabs (3, 4), each mounting tab (3, 4) having at least one hole (21-24) for rigidly fixing it to an upright (16, 17) by means of a screw, each mounting tab (3, 4) being rigidly secured to one end of the body (2) by snap-fit.