Optical Adapter Block Assembly for Physical Layer Tracking
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Network management systems (NMS) lack the ability to display or provide information about the physical layer media used to implement logical communication links in communications networks, leading to inefficiencies in managing and tracking physical components.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of optical adapter block assemblies with integrated circuit boards, covers, and contact assemblies that allow for physical layer management, including media reading interfaces to collect and manage physical layer information, and communication with a data management network.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If traditional network management systems are used, then logical communication links can be established, but physical layer media information cannot be tracked or displayed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent embeds physical layer management capabilities within existing network management systems. Media reading interfaces are integrated into adapter blocks, which are nested within optical assemblies that connect to network devices. This nested structure allows physical layer information to be captured at the connector level and propagated up through the management hierarchy without requiring a completely separate management infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces media reading interfaces as intermediary components between physical media and network management systems. These interfaces read and capture physical layer information from connectors and cables, acting as mediators that translate physical layer characteristics into manageable data. The intermediary components include reading interfaces in adapter blocks that interface with both the physical connectors and the logical management system.
2Reliability
If physical layer management is implemented, then visibility and control over physical infrastructure is enhanced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs adapter blocks with multi-functionality, serving both as physical connection interfaces and as carriers of media reading capabilities. The same adapter block structure that provides optical connectivity also houses the media reading interface, eliminating the need for separate dedicated tracking devices. This universal design reduces overall system complexity while maintaining reliable physical layer management.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges physical connection functions with information gathering functions into unified components. The adapter block combines optical signal transmission with media reading capabilities, and the optical assembly integrates connectors, cables, and reading interfaces into a single manageable unit. This merging approach reduces the number of separate components and simplifies the overall system architecture.
3Ease of operation
If media reading interfaces are integrated into adapter blocks, then physical component tracking is enabled, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the media reading interface as a separate functional module that can be independently manufactured and then integrated into the adapter block. This segmentation allows specialized reading interface components to be produced using optimized processes and then assembled into the final adapter block, reducing overall manufacturing complexity compared to monolithic integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates media reading capabilities during the adapter block manufacturing process itself, rather than adding them later through field installation. Reading interfaces are pre-integrated into adapter blocks during fabrication, and physical layer information is captured at the time of assembly, eliminating subsequent manual configuration steps and reducing operational complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
An adapter block assembly includes an adapter block, a circuit board arrangement, and a cover attached to the adapter block so that the circuit board arrangement is held to the adapter block by the cover. Contact assemblies can be disposed between the adapter block and the circuit board arrangement. The cover can be latched, heat staked, or otherwise secured to the adapter block. Each component of the adapter block assembly can include one or more parts (e.g., multiple adapter blocks, multiple circuit boards, and/or multiple cover pieces).