Rotatable Cover Optical Fiber Patch Panel for Cable Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing patch panels, including optical fiber patch panels, face challenges with limited space and inefficiencies in cable mounting and management, leading to reduced operational efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A patch panel design featuring a rotatable cover panel with a hinge or pin hole connection, integrated patch clamps, and additional mounting and operation holes to enhance space utilization and ease of handling, while maintaining a simple structure and reducing manufacturing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the patch panel uses a fixed closed structure, then the structural strength is maintained, but the operational space for cable handling is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The cover panel is designed to be rotatable relative to the patch panel body, transitioning between a closed position for protection and an open position for cable handling. This dynamic structure provides operational flexibility without requiring a completely open design, thus improving ease of operation while maintaining structural integrity when closed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patch panel is divided into separate components: the patch panel body and the rotatable cover panel. This segmentation allows the cover panel to be independently rotated for access while the body remains structurally intact, resolving the contradiction between needing open space for operations and maintaining structural strength.
2Strength
If the patch panel body is made thicker to increase strength, then the support capability is improved, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The structural strength is segmented into two functional parts: the patch panel body provides the main structural support, while the cover panel provides protection and access. This allows the body to be manufactured at optimal thickness for strength without excessive cost, while the cover panel handles the protection function separately.
Solution Approach 2:
The patch panel uses composite construction with the body made of cold rolling steel plate for strength and the cover panel made of similar material for protection. This composite approach optimizes the strength-to-cost ratio by using materials efficiently in their respective functional positions rather than uniformly thickening the entire structure.
3Productivity
If the patch panel has a simple structure, then the manufacturing cost is reduced, but the operational efficiency is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The rotatable cover panel adds minimal complexity while significantly improving operational efficiency by providing easy access to cable handling spaces. The simple rotation mechanism (hinge or pin hole connection) enables rapid opening and closing without complex locking systems, maintaining simplicity while enhancing productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotatable cover panel serves multiple functions: it provides protection when closed, enables cable access when open, and can be positioned at various angles for different operational needs. This multi-functionality improves operational efficiency without requiring multiple separate components, thus maintaining structural simplicity.
Data Source
AI summary
A patch panel includes: a patch panel body, each end of which is provided respectively with a first rotation connect; two patch clamps, mounted respectively on each end of the patch panel body; and a cover panel, each end of which is provided respectively with a second rotation connect, and the second rotation connect is capable of being rotatably engaged with the first rotation connect. The patch panel is specifically an optical fiber patch panel. The patch panel with such a structure facilitates operation on the cables.