Modular Fiber Optic Patch Panel With High Port Density
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing patch panel devices for fiber optic cables have limitations in terms of port density, flexibility, and efficiency, particularly in terms of installation space, power usage, and cost, as they often lack modular designs that allow for easy expansion and adaptation to varying requirements.
Innovation Solution
A patch panel device with a modular structure featuring a high port density connection unit that can be expanded or reduced in size, incorporating a modular frame unit, interchangeable connection modules, and a cable management system that includes front and rear cable managers for efficient cable routing and protection, allowing for flexible configuration and adaptation to different applications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If traditional patch panel designs are used, then device simplicity is maintained, but port density and installation space efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patch panel device is divided into a frame unit and multiple interchangeable connection modules. Each connection module can be independently selected and installed to provide the required number of ports, allowing the system to achieve high port density while maintaining manageable complexity through modular organization.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame unit is designed as a universal platform that can accommodate different types and numbers of connection modules. This multi-functional design allows the same frame to support various configurations, achieving high port density without proportionally increasing overall device complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If fixed-size patch panels are used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to varying requirements deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patch panel is segmented into a standardized frame unit and interchangeable connection modules. This segmentation enables flexible configuration to meet varying port requirements while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through standardized components that can be produced independently and assembled in different configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patch panel configuration is made dynamic and adjustable through interchangeable connection modules that can be added or removed based on requirements. This dynamic adaptability is achieved while maintaining ease of manufacture through standardized interfaces and modular components.
3Area of stationary object
If high port density is implemented, then installation space efficiency is improved, but cable management complexity worsens
Solution Approach 1:
Cable management functionality is segmented into dedicated cable manager units that are integrated with each connection module. This segmentation allows efficient cable routing at the module level, managing cable complexity locally while maintaining high port density in a compact space.
Solution Approach 2:
Cable management components are nested within or integrated with the connection modules themselves. This nesting approach consolidates cable routing functions within the modular structure, achieving efficient space utilization without proportionally increasing overall device complexity.
4Adaptability or versatility
If modular design with interchangeable modules is implemented, then flexibility and adaptability are improved, but device complexity worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into standardized frame unit and connection modules with defined interfaces. This segmentation enables flexibility through interchangeable modules while controlling complexity through standardization of connection protocols and mounting mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The system achieves flexibility through parameter changes in module configuration (number of modules, types of modules) while maintaining constant structural parameters through standardized interfaces. This allows adaptability without proportionally increasing device complexity.
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 2c~3b
AI summary
The invention relates to a patch panel device, in particular for fiber optic cables, with at least one connection unit (10a; 10b) which defines at least one port, wherein the connection unit (10a; 10b) has a port density of at least 0.55 ports/cm2 in at least one connection area (14a; 14b), wherein the connection unit (10a; 10b) has at least one connection module (18a, 19a; 18b, 19b) which provides the at least one port, and at least one rear cable management unit (26a; 26b) which is provided to supply at least one cable (12a) to the connection module (18a, 19a; 18b, 19b) in at least one operating state.