Modular Connector Quick Release for Recessed Patch Panel Jacks
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Solution Overview
Problem
In high-density patch panels, users face difficulty accessing the clip of electrical modular connectors due to their recessed design, leading to challenges in releasing network cables from electrical jacks without modifying the standardized connectors, which often requires costly customization.
Innovation Solution
A quick release device featuring a connector boot with a passage and a rotatable hook that engages with the clip, allowing the clip to move downward and release the connector from the jack when the slide insert moves away, without the need for substantial customization of the existing connectors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If the electrical modular connector is recessed in high-density patch panels, then the density of connectors is improved, but the accessibility of the clip for user operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a removal tool as an intermediary device that bridges the gap between user capability and connector design. The tool features an L-shaped configuration with a first engagement portion that interfaces with the recessed connector body and a second engagement portion that the user manipulates externally, enabling operation on deeply recessed connectors without modifying the connectors themselves
Solution Approach 2:
The removal tool utilizes a three-dimensional L-shaped structure that extends in multiple directions. The tool engages the connector body through a lateral approach and translates user motion from an external dimension to the internal clip release mechanism, effectively navigating the spatial constraints of high-density recessed installations
2Productivity
If the clip is modified to enable quick release, then the release speed is improved, but the compatibility with standardized connectors deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the release functionality into two independent components: the standardized electrical modular connector remains unchanged while the removal tool provides the quick release capability. This segmentation allows the connector to maintain its standardization and compatibility while the tool delivers enhanced release speed
Solution Approach 2:
The removal tool acts as an intermediary that interfaces with the standardized connector's existing structures (connector body and clip) without requiring modification. The tool's first engagement portion couples with the connector body and second engagement portion manipulates the clip, enabling quick release while preserving connector standardization
3Ease of operation
If customization is applied to the electrical modular connector, then the release mechanism is improved, but the manufacturing cost deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The removal tool serves as a standalone intermediary device that provides enhanced release functionality without requiring any customization of the electrical modular connector. This approach maintains the connector's standardization and mass-produceability while delivering improved ease of operation through the specialized tool
Solution Approach 2:
The removal tool is designed as an affordable, simple device that can be easily manufactured and distributed. Rather than investing in expensive connector customization, the solution employs a cost-effective tool that achieves the desired release mechanism improvement without affecting the connector's manufacturing economics
Data Source
AI summary
A quick release device for releasing an electrical modular connector comprises a connector boot attached to the network cable and assembled with the electrical modular connector; a passage formed on a top side of the connector boot, wherein the passage comprises first, second, and third structures together with the top of the connector boot to enclose the passage as a tunnel; a slide insert having a first and a second ends opposed to the first end, wherein the slide insert is positioned through the passage, wherein the first end faces the electrical jack; and a rotatable hook having a free end and a pivot end configured to pivot on the first end of the slide insert along a longitudinal direction of the slide insert, wherein the free end of the rotatable hook engages with a clip and bias the clip to release the electrical modular connector from the electrical jack when the slide insert moves away from the electrical jack.