Intelligent Patch Cord with Management Conductors for Insertion Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Human error during the implementation and maintenance of physical cable connections in communications networks can lead to significant negative impacts, highlighting the need for improved guidance, control, and verification of network cable installation and removal work orders for technicians performing moves, adds, and changes (MACs) in patch fields.
Innovation Solution
The development of 'ten-wire' patch cords with additional conductors for management, equipped with circuitry and LEDs to detect insertion or removal of plugs and provide visual guidance cues, enabling efficient patch cord management and status indication to technicians.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional patch cords without additional conductors are used, then the device complexity is low, but the capability for insertion detection and visual guidance is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the patch cord into functional segments: signal conductors for data transmission and dedicated management conductors (ninth and tenth wires) for detection and guidance functions. This segmentation allows the management functions to be added without interfering with the existing signal transmission capability
Solution Approach 2:
The management conductors serve multiple functions: they enable insertion detection by completing electrical circuits, provide visual guidance through LED illumination, and allow status monitoring. This multi-functionality is achieved within the existing patch cord structure without requiring separate systems
2Ease of operation
If traditional patch cords without management conductors are used, then the manufacturing cost is low, but the ease of operation for technicians is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where LEDs provide visual confirmation to technicians about insertion status and connection quality. The system continuously monitors and provides real-time feedback through the management conductors, enabling technicians to verify correct installation without additional tools or procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The patch cord system performs self-verification of proper installation through the management conductors. The LEDs automatically indicate when the cord is correctly inserted and when connections are established, allowing the system to self-diagnose installation status without requiring external testing equipment or complex procedures
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
The solution reduces human error by providing clear instructions and real-time status feedback, enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of patch cord installations and removals within patch fields, thus improving network reliability and maintenance processes.
Implementation Method 1
patch cords provided with circuitry, and lights, such as to allow for the provision of easily followed instructions to a technician performing patch cord MACs
Data Source
Figure 1A~1C
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 2C~2D
AI summary
A mapping system for detecting the insertion and removal of a patch cord is provided. The mapping system comprises an intelligent patch panel having a charging/sampling circuit, which is connected to first and second management contacts associated with a jack on the intelligent patch panel. The mapping system also includes a patch cord with first and second management conductors. The mapping system further comprises a first plug connected to a first end of the patch cord, the first plug having first and second plug management contacts electrically connected to the first and second management conductors, respectively, on the patch cord and configured to electrically engage the first and second management contacts, respectively, on the intelligent patch panel when the first plug is inserted in the jack on the intelligent patch panel. The mapping system also comprises a second plug connected to a second end of the patch cord, the second plug having a single-pole, double-throw switch configured to change states when the second plug is inserted and removed from a jack. The second plug further has a first capacitor connected to a first contact of the single-pole, double-throw switch and a second capacitor connected to a second contact of the single-pole, double-throw switch. The intelligent patch panel is configured to identify a connection status of the patch cord via the charging/sampling circuit.