Interlocking Network Tap Modules for High-Density Rack Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current network tap installations face challenges in maximizing space efficiency and reducing costs, as conventional methods typically allow for only three single port units per rack unit, with higher densities being difficult to achieve without altering network topology or increasing physical space requirements.
Innovation Solution
The use of interlocking modular network components and frame keys allows for high-density packing of network taps within a rack unit, enabling configurations that increase the number of taps per rack unit while maintaining a secure and rigid mounting arrangement, such as achieving densities of 12 single ports or more per rack unit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If conventional mounting methods are used for network taps, then ease of installation is maintained, but the packing ratio (density of taps per rack unit) is limited to three single port units per RU
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements nesting by placing one network tap housing inside another, with the second housing containing the first. This nested configuration allows multiple taps to be stacked vertically within a single rack unit, achieving high density (up to 12 single-port taps per RU) without requiring complex mounting mechanisms. The interlocking features enable secure nesting while maintaining ease of installation.
2Quantity of substance
If higher tap densities are achieved using multi-port taps, then the number of ports per rack unit increases, but the difficulty of achieving densities greater than six ports per RU remains
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the network monitoring function into multiple independent single-port tap units that can be individually manufactured and then nested together. This segmentation allows flexible configuration to achieve any desired port density (e.g., nesting three 4-port taps or twelve 1-port taps) without the manufacturing complexity associated with integrating multiple ports into single devices. The standardized interlocking features enable easy assembly of segmented units.
3Quantity of substance
If more rack space is allocated for taps, then higher tap densities can be achieved, but the available space for other network equipment decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from horizontal placement of taps to vertical stacking through nesting, effectively utilizing the vertical dimension within each rack unit. This dimensional change allows up to 12 taps to occupy the space of what would traditionally accommodate only 3 taps horizontally, thereby maximizing space utilization without encroaching on the footprint available for other network equipment.
Data Source
AI summary
According to one example, a rack unit assembly is provided herein that includes a frame and a modular network component having at least one interlocking part associated therewith. The rack unit assembly also includes frame key mounted on the frame. The interlocking part is configured to be interlockingly coupled to the frame key.