Segmented Blank Panel for Rack Cable Clearance

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Solution Overview

Problem

The removal and attachment of blank panels from racks are hindered by cables connected to devices, requiring labor-intensive cable relocation and potential service interruptions to avoid contact with cables during these operations.

Innovation Solution

A blank panel design comprising two partial panels, where one partial panel is attached to the rack and linked to the other, allowing for removal and attachment without contacting cables by gathering cables in the removal direction, thus facilitating the process.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a blank panel is designed as a single integrated unit, then it provides structural strength and stability, but it becomes difficult to remove and attach without contacting cables

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of removal and attachmentVSAvoidpanel structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The blank panel is divided into two separate partial panels that can be removed and attached independently. This segmentation allows the panels to be manipulated without contacting cables, solving the contradiction between ease of operation and structural integrity by creating smaller, more manageable components that collectively provide the same functional benefits.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of operation

If cables are relocated to facilitate blank panel removal, then panel accessibility is improved, but labor time and service interruption increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccessibility of blank panelVSAvoidtime for cable relocation
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

By segmenting the blank panel into two removable partial panels, the invention eliminates the need for cable relocation. The panels can be directly removed and attached without moving cables, thereby improving accessibility while avoiding time loss associated with cable handling operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Device complexity

If a single blank panel is used, then the structure is simple, but cable contact risk increases during removal and attachment

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepanel structure simplicityVSAvoidrisk of cable contact
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

Dividing the blank panel into two smaller partial panels reduces the risk of cable contact during removal and attachment operations. The smaller size and separable nature of the partial panels allow for more controlled manipulation, minimizing the harmful effect of potential cable contact while maintaining structural simplicity through the use of identical, interchangeable components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS12089362B2Blank panel
Publication Date: 2024.09.10 NIPPON TELEGRAPH & TELEPHONE CORP
  • US12089362B2 patent drawing
  • US12089362B2 patent drawing
  • US12089362B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A blank panel of the present disclosure includes a partial panel and a partial panel, in which the partial panel includes an attachment portion attached to a rack and a link portion linked to the partial panel, and the partial panel includes an attachment portion attached to the rack and a link portion linked to the partial panel.