Modular Rack Layout With Integrated Cable Raceways
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing equipment racks fail to provide effective cable management, modularity, and space optimization in height reducible electronics enclosures, particularly in military applications where space is limited and equipment must be secure and adaptable for different missions.
Innovation Solution
A modular equipment rack system where legs serve as both supporting members and cable raceways, the top functions as a cable management tray and storage/work surface, with integrated storage features and scalable design to maximize space and meet tactical shock and vibration requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If traditional equipment racks are used with separate cable raceways attached between adjacent bays, then cable management is provided, but device complexity increases and space is wasted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the cable raceway function directly into the leg structures themselves, eliminating the need for separate cable management components. The legs are designed with internal cavities and channels that serve as integrated cable pathways, merging structural support and cable management into a single component system.
Solution Approach 2:
The legs serve multiple functions simultaneously: they provide structural support for the rack, define bay boundaries, and contain integrated cable raceways for cable management. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity by eliminating dedicated cable management hardware.
2Length of moving object
If height reducible electronics enclosure is used for transport, then portability is improved, but space for equipment and cabling becomes extremely limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the horizontal plane and depth dimensions more effectively by positioning cable raceways within the leg structures and providing cable access through the front faces of legs. This three-dimensional cable routing approach maximizes space utilization within the constrained height while maintaining adequate cable management capability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If equipment racks are made modular and reconfigurable for different missions, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rack is divided into modular bay sections defined by individual legs and cross members, allowing flexible configuration. Each leg assembly can be independently positioned and configured, enabling the rack to be reconfigured for different mission requirements while maintaining structural integrity.
4Ease of operation
If cable raceways are provided between adjacent bays, then cable routing is enabled, but access to cabling becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The front faces of the legs serve as intermediary access points to the cable raceways. Cable conduits or openings in the leg front faces provide direct access to the cable management system without requiring disassembly of the rack structure, facilitating easy cable installation and maintenance.
Data Source
AI summary
The subject invention features, in one example, a modular rack system including a plurality of legs each including an integral cable raceway and arranged to define electronic equipment bays between spaced legs, equipment mounting rails for the bays; and a cable management tray extending across the top of each bay.