Network Distribution Adapter for Motor Control Center Cable Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
In Motor Control Centers (MCCs), routing network cables is challenging due to limited space and the delicate nature of traditional network connections, which often require fault tolerance.
Innovation Solution
A network distribution adapter is configured to vertically connect a network cable on one side of an isolation wall while connecting another network cable at an angle on the opposing side, using a printed circuit board (PCB) with angled RJ-45 connectors, allowing for reliable protection and efficient routing within the limited space of vertical wire-ways.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If network cables are routed through vertical wire-ways in MCCs, then existing wiring infrastructure can be utilized, but the limited space and delicate nature of network connections make reliable routing difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a network distribution adapter as an intermediary device installed in the wire-way. This adapter provides protected Ethernet jack connections that are shielded from physical damage while maintaining connectivity through the existing wire-way infrastructure. The adapter acts as a mediator between the rugged wire-way environment and the delicate network connections, solving the contradiction by allowing utilization of existing infrastructure while ensuring connection reliability through physical protection.
2Area of stationary object
If traditional network connections are installed in limited wire-way space, then space utilization is achieved, but fault tolerance and reliability are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the network connection function into a separate, protected component (the network distribution adapter) that can be installed within the wire-way. This segmentation allows the delicate Ethernet connections to be housed in a protected enclosure rather than being directly exposed in the limited wire-way space, thereby maintaining compact installation while improving fault tolerance and reliability of the network connections.
3Productivity
If network cables are routed close to end-user cables in wire-ways, then space efficiency is improved, but the risk of damage during commissioning activities increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements beforehand cushioning by providing physical protection for network cables through the enclosed adapter housing. The adapter acts as a protective barrier that cushions the delicate network connections from potential damage during commissioning activities. This pre-established protection allows cables to be routed in close proximity for space efficiency while mitigating the harmful factor of cable damage risk through the protective enclosure.
Data Source
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AI summary
A network distribution adapter may be configured to vertically connect a network cable on one side of an isolation wall (within a vertical wire-way) while connecting another network cable at an angle on an opposing side of the isolation wall (interior to the MCC). This may advantageously allow fitting the adapter in the limited space provided by the vertical wire-way while also providing more reliable protection for the network connections. In one aspect, the network distribution adapter may include a printed circuit board (PCB) which couples a first connector disposed in a first plane parallel to the PCB with a second connector disposed in a second plane at an angle to the first plane. The PCB may be mounted in a housing which, in turn, may be mounted in relation to an opening in the isolation wall.