Intelligent Patch Panel with LED Guidance for Cable Connection Verification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Human error in implementing and maintaining physical cable connections between network communication equipment can lead to significant negative impacts on communications networks, highlighting the need for improved control and verification of network cable Move/Add/Change orders.
Innovation Solution
A system with intelligent patch panels and enhanced patch cords, including a panel management module (PMM) and peripheral expansion management module (PEMM), that detect insertion or removal of patch cords, communicate connection status, and provide visual cues through LEDs to guide technicians in correct patching and tracing, thereby reducing errors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual patching operations are performed without intelligent detection, then device complexity is reduced, but human error increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements automatic detection and verification systems that provide real-time feedback on patch cord connections. Sensors detect when patch cords are inserted or removed, and the system verifies correct connections by comparing actual connections against intended configurations, alerting operators to errors immediately.
Solution Approach 2:
The patch panel system performs self-verification of connections without requiring manual checking. The intelligent system automatically detects connection status, validates correctness, and maintains documentation, reducing reliance on human operators to manually verify each connection.
2Loss of information
If traditional patch panels without detection capabilities are used, then ease of operation is maintained, but documentation accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-configures intended connections and automatically compares actual connections against these predefined configurations. The documentation is automatically updated based on detected connections, eliminating the need for manual documentation while maintaining simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
Manual documentation processes are replaced with electronic detection and automatic recording systems. Sensors and controllers automatically track connection status and update documentation, replacing the mechanical process of manual note-taking with an automated electronic system.
3Measurement precision
If intelligent detection systems are implemented in patch panels, then verification capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces intermediary detection components such as sensors and controllers that bridge the gap between simple patch cords and complex verification requirements. These intermediaries detect connection status and transmit information to the verification system without requiring the entire system to be complex.
Solution Approach 2:
The intelligent patch panel system is divided into separate functional modules: detection modules that sense connections, verification modules that validate configurations, and documentation modules that record status. This segmentation allows each component to perform its function simply while the integrated system provides precise verification.
4Productivity
If manual verification of patch connections is performed, then device complexity remains low, but time consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The detection system operates continuously to monitor connection status rather than requiring periodic manual checks. The system maintains constant awareness of patch cord positions and connection states, enabling immediate detection of errors or changes without interrupting workflow.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs automatic verification of connections without requiring operator intervention for checking. The intelligent patch panel self-validates connections against intended configurations and self-documented connection status, freeing operators to focus on higher-value tasks.
Data Source
AI summary
An intelligent network patch field management system is provided that includes electronic hardware, firmware, mechanical assemblies, cables, and software that provide visible and audible cues for connecting and disconnecting patch cords in an interconnect or cross-connect patching environment. Systems of the present invention also monitor patch cord connections in a network.