Pivotable Patch Panel Doubles Optical Coupling Density
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing optical distribution frames (ODFs) face limitations in packing density due to height constraints, which restrict the number of patch panels that can be stacked, and require improved handling and accessibility for optical connectors and cables.
Innovation Solution
A patch panel design featuring a pivotable second front panel with couplings or adapters arranged parallel to the first front panel, allowing for increased packing density and improved accessibility by sliding or pivoting the cassette-mounted first faceplate, which includes a base plate for cable storage and routing, and plate-shaped elements for cable management and protection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a single front panel with couplings is used in conventional patch panels, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the packing density is low due to height constraints limiting the number of stacked patch panels
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a second front panel arranged in a plane parallel to the first front panel, effectively utilizing the depth dimension of the housing to double the number of couplings available per patch panel unit. This dimensional transition from single-plane to multi-plane arrangement resolves the packing density limitation without proportionally increasing height
Solution Approach 2:
The patch panel is divided into modular components: a housing, a first front panel with couplings, and a second front panel with couplings. The first front panel is fixed to a cassette that can be slidably or pivotally mounted, allowing independent access and management of each panel segment, thereby simplifying the overall structure while achieving higher density
2Ease of operation
If the first front panel is fixed to allow rear access for connector installation and cleaning, then accessibility is improved, but the structural complexity increases with additional mounting mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The first front panel is made dynamically accessible through a cassette mechanism that can be slidably or pivotally mounted on the housing. This allows the panel to transition between fixed and accessible states, enabling rear access for connector installation and cleaning without requiring complex disassembly procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The cassette mechanism serves multiple functions: it mounts the first front panel, provides sliding or pivotal movement for access, and integrates with the housing structure. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate mounting mechanisms, thereby limiting the increase in structural complexity while improving accessibility
3Quantity of substance
If the second front panel is arranged parallel to the first front panel to double packing density, then space utilization is improved, but the increase in installation space towards the front becomes more critical
Solution Approach 1:
The second front panel is nested within the housing structure in a depth-wise arrangement, with couplings positioned in a plane parallel to but offset from the first front panel. This nesting approach allows the second panel to utilize otherwise underutilized depth space, doubling packing density while minimizing the increase in front-facing installation space
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a patch panel (1) for an optical distributor, comprising a housing (2) having a front plate disposed on the front side thereof and having couplings (10) or adapters for optical plug connectors, wherein a second front plate (12) having couplers (19) or adapters for optical plug connectors is disposed in front of the front plate (9).