Rotatable Fiber Optic Module Interface for Compact Patch Panels
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Solution Overview
Problem
As patch panels shrink in size to conserve space, they become increasingly difficult to maintain and manage cable connections, requiring easier access to latching mechanisms and compatibility with existing equipment in network systems.
Innovation Solution
A cable connection module with a rotatable interface portion and port holders that accommodate adapters, allowing for movable access and secure connection/disconnection, along with a chassis design that supports stacked or horizontally arranged modules with separation walls for efficient cable management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If patch panel size is reduced to conserve space, then space efficiency is improved, but accessibility to cable connections and latching mechanisms deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The interface portion is designed to be rotatable relative to the body, transforming a static fixed interface into a dynamic adjustable one. This allows the interface to be rotated into accessible positions for cable connection operations while maintaining a compact overall module size, directly resolving the contradiction between small size and ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces rotational movement in a third dimension (around the vertical axis) to the traditional two-dimensional planar interface. By rotating the interface portion, the connection ports can be positioned at different angular orientations, providing accessibility without increasing the radial footprint of the module.
2Area of stationary object
If patch panel size is reduced to conserve space, then space efficiency is improved, but maintenance and cable connection management becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The rotatable interface portion allows maintenance personnel to rotate the interface to positions that provide optimal access for troubleshooting and cable operations. This dynamic adjustment simplifies maintenance tasks despite the compact size, directly addressing the maintenance difficulty issue.
3Device complexity
If module is designed with fixed interface portion, then structural simplicity is improved, but adaptability for different connection configurations deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The interface portion is designed with rotational capability relative to the body, adding dynamic adaptability while maintaining relatively simple structure. The rotation mechanism allows the same physical interface to accommodate different connection configurations and access requirements without requiring multiple specialized interface designs.
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
Facilitates easy access and management of cable connections, ensuring compatibility with existing equipment and reducing maintenance complexity in densely packed network systems.
Implementation Method 1
the tongue being deformable in a first direction that allows the mounting section to be connected to the engagement member in a movable fashion, and deformable in a second direction that allows the mounting section to be disconnected from the engagement member
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
Cable connection components including a cable connection module having a body; and an interface portion rotatably coupled to the body, the interface portion configured to accommodate a plurality of port holders coupled to the interface portion in a movable fashion, and each of the port holders configured to hold one or more adapters for receiving respective cable connection terminals.