Port Shutter Contact Sensing for Automatic Patch Cord Logging
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Solution Overview
Problem
In large-scale data center operations, manual tracing of patch cords is difficult or impossible due to complex cable routing and the need for accurate logging of interconnection changes, often leading to errors in logging and maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A method and system using a shutter mechanism with a spring contact to detect the presence of a plug connector at a port, which transitions from a closed to an open position upon insertion, allowing for automatic detection and logging of patch cord connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual tracing of patch cords is performed, then connection accuracy can be verified, but time consumption and operational difficulty increase significantly in large-scale data centers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical tracing process with an automated optical detection system. The system uses light sources and photodetectors to automatically trace and identify patch cord connections, eliminating the need for technicians to manually follow cables through complex routing structures. This substitution maintains measurement precision while dramatically reducing time consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediate detection devices (photodetectors and light sources) that act as mediators between the patch cords and the logging system. These intermediaries enable automatic detection of connection status without requiring direct manual inspection, thus resolving the contradiction between accuracy and time efficiency.
2Reliability
If manual logging of interconnection changes is performed, then record keeping can be maintained, but errors increase when technicians neglect or make mistakes in updating logs
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service automatic logging where the detection system automatically records connection status changes without requiring technician intervention. The system self-updates the interconnection logs based on real-time detection data, eliminating human error while maintaining reliable record-keeping. This improves both reliability and operational simplicity simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where detection results are automatically fed back to update the logging system. This closed-loop feedback ensures that logs are continuously synchronized with actual connection status, eliminating errors from manual updates while maintaining ease of operation through automated processes.
3Stability of the object's composition
If complex cable routing mechanisms are used to manage patch cords, then cable organization is improved, but manual tracing becomes difficult or impossible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical tracing through complex cable routing with an automated optical detection system. The system uses light transmission through the patch cords to identify connections, bypassing the physical complexity of cable management structures. This maintains stable cable organization while eliminating tracing difficulty.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables accurate and efficient detection and logging of patch cord connections, reducing manual tracing efforts and improving the reliability of interconnection records in data centers.
Implementation Method 1
a spring contact member (116) that is deflected by the shutter (106) from a first position in which the spring contact member (116) does not contact the circuit board (110) to a second position in which the spring contact member (116) contacts the circuit board (110)
Data Source
AI summary
The presence of a plug connector with a port is detected through a detection circuit activated by a port shutter. Transitioning the port shutter between the closed (i.e., blocking the port) position and the open position actuates and deactuates the detection circuit.