Interchangeable Patch Panel Front Plate for Multi-Socket Compatibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing patch panels require multiple versions to accommodate different types of connection sockets or adapters, leading to increased production and storage costs and complexity, as each type necessitates a separate panel, limiting flexibility and efficiency in installation.
Innovation Solution
A patch panel with an interchangeable front panel featuring a sliding tray and L-shaped profile, allowing for the secure installation of two different types of sockets or adapters by simply repositioning and reattaching the front panel without replacing any part of the main structure, using distinct hole configurations for RJ45 and optical sockets or adapters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate patch panels are produced for different socket types, then each panel can be optimized for its specific socket type, but production costs, storage requirements, and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patch panel body is designed as a universal structure that can accommodate multiple types of sockets (RJ45, optical, VGA, etc.) through a standardized mounting system. The interchangeable front panels with different hole configurations allow a single patch panel body to serve multiple functions and support various connection types, eliminating the need for separate specialized panels for each socket type.
Solution Approach 2:
The patch panel is divided into two separable components: a universal box-shaped structure and interchangeable front panels. This segmentation allows the main body to remain constant while only the front panel needs to be changed when different socket types are required, simplifying production and reducing the number of parts that need to be manufactured and stored.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate patch panels are produced for different socket types, then each panel can be optimized for its specific socket type, but storage and production needs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The universal patch panel body serves as a common platform for all socket types, significantly reducing the number of distinct parts that need to be produced and stored. Instead of maintaining inventory of multiple complete patch panel assemblies for different socket types, only the front panels need to be varied, while the main structure remains the same.
3Ease of manufacture
If a single patch panel structure is used for different socket types, then production and storage costs decrease, but the ability to accommodate different socket shapes and dimensions becomes limited
Solution Approach 1:
The front panels are designed with different hole patterns and configurations tailored to specific socket types (RJ45, optical, VGA, etc.), while the main patch panel body maintains a uniform, standardized structure. This allows each front panel to be optimized for its specific socket type without requiring changes to the production process for the main body, thus maintaining manufacturing simplicity while achieving adaptability.
4Adaptability or versatility
If interchangeable front panels are used, then flexibility in installing different sockets is improved, but the front panel replacement process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The front panels are designed to be removable and interchangeable, transforming the patch panel from a static, fixed-configuration device to a dynamic, reconfigurable system. The standardized mounting holes and attachment mechanism enable easy removal and installation of different front panels, allowing users to adapt the patch panel to different socket types as needed without complex tools or procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
A patch panel has a box-shaped structure that includes a front panel having a L-shaped profile with two orthogonal walls joined together along a common longer edge. On each of the two walls of the front panel there are holes or openings for screws or other elements that secure the front panel to a tray and to side walls of the box-shaped structure, and on each of the two walls of the front panel there are holes or openings adapted to house sockets and/or adapters. The front panel can be secured to a sliding tray so that one of the walls of the front panel is adherent to the sliding tray and the other one of the walls of the front panel is orthogonal to the sliding tray, closing a front opening of the box-shaped structure when the sliding tray is completely inserted into the box-shaped structure.