Grounding Adapter for Protector Module Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing network interface devices (NIDs) face challenges in reusing protector modules without integral ground adapters, as they cannot be directly mounted to a grounding element, limiting the ability to upgrade or repurpose these modules in new demarcation point arrangements.
Innovation Solution
An adapter is designed to provide ground mount areas with conductive ground posts that can couple to protector modules without integral ground adapters, allowing them to be securely mounted to a grounding element in the NID, enabling the reuse of existing protector modules.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If protector modules without integral ground adapters are used, then device complexity is reduced and ease of manufacture is improved, but the ability to mount and ground the protector module is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The grounding function is separated from the protector module and provided by a separate adapter component. The adapter includes a body portion that interfaces with the protector module and a ground interface portion that connects to the grounding element, dividing the mounting function into distinct segments that can be independently optimized
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter serves as an intermediary component between the protector module and the grounding element. It mediates the connection by providing a body portion that couples to the protector module and a ground interface portion that engages with the grounding element, enabling mounting without modifying the original protector module design
2Ease of operation
If ground adapters are broken off for mounting, then the protector module can be mounted to legacy NIDs, but the adapter structure is damaged and cannot be reused
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter is designed as a separate, intact component that provides grounding functionality without requiring damage to the protector module. The segmented design allows the adapter to be installed while remaining structurally complete and reusable
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of discarding or damaging the protector module's ground adapters during installation, the invention recovers the original structure by using a separate adapter component that interfaces with the protector module without requiring removal or damage of its original grounding elements
3Device complexity
If protector modules are designed for direct mounting without adapters, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to different mounting configurations is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter is designed with universal compatibility to interface with various protector module types and mounting configurations. The body portion can couple to different protector module designs while the ground interface portion can engage with different grounding element configurations, providing multi-functional adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter acts as a universal intermediary that bridges different protector module designs and mounting configurations. It provides a standardized interface that enables adaptability without requiring modifications to the protector module itself
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
The adapter facilitates the reuse of protector modules by establishing a conductive path for grounding, ensuring secure mounting and operation within the NID, even in legacy systems, thereby supporting the transition to new demarcation point arrangements.
Implementation Method 1
An adapter is designed to provide ground mount areas with conductive ground posts that can couple to protector modules without integral ground adapters, allowing them to be securely mounted to a grounding element in the NID
Data Source
AI summary
An adapter for grounding a protector module in a network interface device (NID) is provided. The adapter includes a body, and at least one ground mount area on the body. Each ground mount area includes a ground post extending from the body and configured to conductively couple to the protector module. A connector extends from the body and is configured to conductively couple to a grounding element of the NID. The body, the at least one ground post and the connector are conductive. The adapter allows for reuse of existing protector modules that do not have a ground adapter for direct mounting to a ground post by using the vertical grounding feature found in the protector module.