Modular Distribution Frames for Retail Cabling
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Solution Overview
Problem
In retail and materials handling facilities, the large number of sensors and computer systems requires extensive cabling and dedicated spaces for power and networking equipment, leading to space allocation and temperature management challenges due to heat generation and varying voltage and bandwidth needs.
Innovation Solution
Modular distribution frames and assemblies that can be scaled and mounted on various surfaces, featuring access boxes for cable management, ventilation, and secure power and network connections, allowing for efficient use of space and flexible installation of power and networking components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional hard-wired connections and dedicated equipment spaces are used for each sensor, then reliable power and communications connectivity is achieved, but significant interior space is consumed for housing equipment and extensive cabling is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the power and communications distribution system into modular distribution frames that can be distributed throughout the facility rather than centralized in dedicated equipment rooms. Each frame independently serves a local area, reducing the need for extensive cabling and freeing up interior space while maintaining reliable connectivity through localized distribution points.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from horizontal space consumption (dedicated equipment rooms) to vertical space utilization (mounting distribution frames on walls and ceilings). This dimensional shift allows the system to occupy minimal interior space while providing comprehensive coverage through strategically positioned vertical mounting surfaces.
2Power
If power and networking equipment are concentrated in dedicated spaces, then adequate power distribution is achieved, but temperature control and environmental management become challenging due to heat generation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the power distribution system into multiple distributed frames throughout the facility, each handling a portion of the total power load. This segmentation prevents heat concentration in a single location, allowing natural heat dissipation across multiple smaller units and simplifying environmental management while maintaining adequate power distribution capacity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If extensive cabling is deployed to connect numerous sensors, then complete network coverage is achieved, but installation complexity and maintenance difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent organizes the cabling system into modular distribution frames with standardized connection points and structured routing. Each frame serves a specific zone with organized cable management features, reducing overall system complexity by breaking down the extensive cabling into manageable, standardized segments that are easier to install and maintain while achieving complete network coverage.
4Area of stationary object
If modular distribution frames are distributed throughout the facility, then interior space is freed up and heat management is improved, but the number of mounting locations and installation points increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs universal mounting structures and standardized frame configurations that can be installed on various surfaces (walls, ceilings, columns) using common mounting techniques. This universality allows the same frame design to be deployed across multiple locations without requiring location-specific customizations, reducing installation complexity despite the increased number of mounting points while maximizing interior space availability.
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 modular system enables efficient use of space, reduces the need for extensive cabling, and provides secure, scalable power and networking solutions, improving facility layout and operational efficiency while managing heat and environmental conditions.
Implementation Method 1
a frame that includes a front, a back, a top, and a bottom
Implementation Method 2
a frame that includes a front, a back, a top, and a bottom that define a cavity therein
Data Source
AI summary
Cable housing assemblies include frames and cable carriers slidably mounted to channels provided at edges of the frames. The cable carriers may house or support male or female connectors to the cables, which may be power or communications cables (e.g., Ethernet cables) that extend from the connectors within the cable carriers into the channels, and through voids within the frames to power sources or communications systems. The cable carriers are releasably inserted into channels at edges of the frames, and permitted to slide in either direction (e.g., up or down) to various positions within such channels, in order to make power or communications services available at such positions. When installed in association with a shelving unit, e.g., between a backerboard and shelves, the cable carriers may be used to provide power or communications services available to such shelves provided at any height within the shelving unit.