IR Sensor Modules for Patch Panel Cord Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current communications patching systems face challenges in accurately tracking and managing patch cords, leading to errors and inefficiencies due to manual tracing and the need for specialized handling of circuit boards for sensing technologies.
Innovation Solution
Intelligent sensor modules are installed on patch panels, utilizing IR emitters and sensors to detect patch cord insertion and removal, with a processor and memory for controlling and filtering IR signals, and protective features against physical damage and static electricity, allowing for accurate tracking without disrupting service.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If manual tracing methods are used to track patch cords, then system complexity is reduced, but measurement precision and tracking accuracy deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical tracing with an automated optical detection system using IR emitters and sensors. The IR emitters transmit infrared signals through patch cords, and sensors detect these signals to automatically identify and track connections, eliminating the need for manual tracing while significantly improving tracking accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service tracking where the patch panel automatically detects and identifies patch cord connections without requiring manual intervention. The IR-based detection system allows the network to self-monitor and self-trace connections, improving both accuracy and operational efficiency.
2Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If specialized circuit boards with mechanical switches are used for sensing, then detection capability is improved, but ease of manufacture and installation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical switches with contactless IR sensing technology. IR emitters transmit signals through the patch cord insulation, and sensors detect these signals without physical contact or mechanical movement, eliminating the complexity of mechanical switch assembly and improving ease of manufacture and installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces IR signals as an intermediary medium for detection. Instead of using mechanical switches that require direct contact, the system uses IR emitters and sensors that communicate through the patch cord insulation, simplifying the detection mechanism and improving manufacturability.
3Measurement precision
If IR emitters and sensors are installed on patch panels, then tracking precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the IR emitters and sensors to serve multiple functions: tracking patch cord connections, identifying specific cords, and monitoring connection status. This multi-functionality justifies the added complexity by providing comprehensive tracking capabilities in a single integrated system.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses IR signal copying where the emitter transmits a signal through the patch cord and the sensor detects a copy of that signal at the other end. This copying mechanism enables precise tracking while maintaining relatively simple device architecture through straightforward signal transmission and detection.
4Ease of operation
If manual patch cord management is used, then ease of operation is maintained, but loss of time and productivity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service operation where the automated IR detection system performs tracking and identification without requiring manual intervention. Network administrators can simply query the system to obtain connection information, dramatically improving productivity while maintaining ease of use through automated responses.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides immediate feedback through automated detection and reporting of patch cord connections. When a connection is made or changed, the IR sensors detect it and the system automatically updates the connection database, providing real-time feedback that improves both productivity and operational efficiency.
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 enables accurate and efficient tracking of patch cords, reducing errors and improving connectivity management, while eliminating the need for specialized handling and installation procedures.
Implementation Method 1
an IR emitter 208 and an IR sensor 210 configured to identify a patch cord 40 connected to the connector port 16
Implementation Method 2
Each pair is configured to detect insertion and removal of a patch cord connector from a respective connector port
Data Source
AI summary
A communications patching system includes a patch panel having a plurality of connector ports on a side thereof, and a sensor module secured to the patch panel side. The sensor module includes a plurality of pairs of IR emitters and sensors, with each emitter/sensor pair located adjacent to a respective one of the connector ports. Each emitter/sensor pair is configured to detect insertion and removal of a patch cord connector from a respective connector port. The sensor module includes a housing and a printed circuit board (PCB) secured to the housing. The IR emitters and sensors are electrically connected to the PCB, and the PCB includes a processor and memory for controlling the IR emitters and sensors.