Replicator Shelf Port Interface for Stable Network Connection Changes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Network switches experience performance declines due to the fragility of their performance when changing, adding, or testing paths and connections, as mistakes in disconnecting and reconnecting cables can lead to substantial performance declines.
Innovation Solution
A replicator shelf is used to replicate the ports of a network switch, allowing for the changing, adding, or testing of paths and connections without touching the actual connections on the switch, using blades with communication connectors and a support bar to manage cables and prevent snagging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If cables are directly connected to network switch ports, then network communication is enabled, but performance declines when changing or testing connections due to fragility and potential mistakes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a replicator shelf as an intermediary device between the network switch and cables. The replicator shelf replicates the network switch ports and provides a separate interface for cable connections and testing. This allows maintenance and testing operations to be performed on the replicator shelf without affecting the actual network switch connections, thereby maintaining network performance stability while ease of operation for connection changes.
2Device complexity
If cables are managed without support structures, then device complexity is reduced, but cables may snag and cause performance issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the cable support function from the main replicator shelf structure by introducing separate support bars. These support bars are specifically designed to hold and guide cables, preventing them from snagging on other components. This separation of concerns maintains overall device simplicity while ensuring reliable cable management and preventing performance issues related to cable interference.
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus, systems, methods implement replicator shelves. A blade is slidably connected to a replicator shelf. Communication connectors are positioned on the blade. A support bar, within the replicator shelf, supports a plurality of cables to a plurality of blades comprising the blade.