Patch Panel Assembly with Movable Tray for Connector Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional communication patch panels face challenges in accessing and maintaining small connectors, such as LC connectors, due to their compact size, which can be difficult for technicians with larger or less dexterous hands, and the need for increased connector port density in limited space.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a patch panel system with movable tray portions and connection means that allow for translation and adjustment of ports, enabling easier access and manipulation of connectors by allowing them to be spaced apart or brought closer together, accommodating different hand sizes and connector types.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If smaller sized connectors (LC connectors) are used to increase connector port density, then the number of connectors per unit space increases, but the ease of accessing and manipulating connectors deteriorates due to their small size
Solution Approach 1:
The patch panel incorporates movable tray portions that can translate between retracted and extended positions. When extended, the tray brings connectors closer to the technician for easier access and manipulation. This dynamic adjustment allows technicians with larger or less dexterous hands to comfortably service small LC connectors while maintaining high connector density when the tray is retracted.
2Quantity of substance
If more connectors are placed within the same amount of space, then connector density increases, but the difficulty of accessing connectors increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a spatial dimension by implementing a movable tray that translates in the proximal-distal direction. This allows connectors to be positioned in a retracted state for high density, then moved to an extended state for improved accessibility, effectively using the depth dimension to resolve the contradiction between density and access.
3Area of stationary object
If connectors are placed in close proximity to increase density, then space utilization improves, but the ease of maintenance and servicing deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The movable tray portion provides dynamic positioning capability, allowing connectors to be moved from a compact retracted position optimized for space utilization to an extended position that provides adequate clearance for maintenance activities. This resolves the contradiction between high density and ease of repair.
Data Source
AI summary
A device and a system may facilitate access to communication connectors, adapters, and/or ports that are supported within a housing, e.g., a rack or cabinet. The system may include a tray slidable distally into a housing and proximally out of the housing. A plurality of first connectors may each be coupled to an arm having a distal end pivotably coupled to the tray. The tray may include a track, and a connector holder may be slidably coupled to the track. At least one second connector may be coupled to the connector holder and may have a stored state and a retracted state and may be positioned at least partially distal to the distal ends of the arms when in the stored state.