Shielded Distribution Module Single Cable Merging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular distribution panels face challenges with inflexibility in changing distribution configurations, excessive cable requirements leading to space and weight issues, and increased fire risks due to high cable counts, particularly in densely packed installations.
Innovation Solution
The use of shielded distribution modules with a closed housing that allows direct wiring of multiple connection sockets using a single cable with a single outer sheath, enabling flexible arrangement and reduced cable count while maintaining high data transmission rates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If 1:1 cabling of each individual socket is used, then direct wiring of connection sockets is achieved, but the number of cables increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple individual cables that would normally connect to separate sockets are merged into a single cable with multiple connectors. The patent describes a cable with a single outer sheath containing multiple individually shielded connectors, each connecting to a separate socket within the distribution module. This combining approach reduces the total number of cables from 48 (in traditional 1:1 cabling) to just one cable serving multiple sockets.
Solution Approach 2:
A single cable is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously by incorporating multiple connectors within one outer sheath. This universal cable structure allows one cable to serve the function of multiple individual cables, connecting to multiple sockets while maintaining the shielding and isolation characteristics of individual cables through internal segmentation.
2Reliability
If multiple cables are used for direct wiring, then each socket can be connected individually, but the space requirement increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple cable functions are merged into a single cable assembly, dramatically reducing the space required for cable management. Instead of requiring separate cable pathways for 48 individual cables, the invention consolidates these into one cable with multiple connectors, reducing the required cable duct cross-sectional area and simplifying installation space requirements.
3Reliability
If a large number of cables are installed, then all connection sockets can be wired, but the weight load increases
Solution Approach 1:
The weight of multiple individual cables is merged into a single cable assembly. By consolidating 48 separate cable connections into one cable with multiple connectors, the total weight is significantly reduced. The single outer sheath structure with internal shielding provides the necessary protection while maintaining a weight that is fraction of the traditional multi-cable approach.
4Reliability
If many cables are used for cabling, then all sockets can be connected, but the fire load increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple cable assemblies that would individually contribute to fire load are merged into a single cable structure. The single outer sheath with internal shielding creates a more controlled environment for the conductors, reducing the overall fire load while maintaining connection coverage. This consolidation reduces the total surface area of insulation materials and the number of potential fire propagation paths.
5Adaptability or versatility
If manually installed cables are used, then connection flexibility is achieved, but configuration changing requires cable removal and reconnection
Solution Approach 1:
The distribution module enables dynamic reconfiguration by allowing the front panel with multiple connectors to be easily detached and reattached to different socket positions. Instead of manually removing and reconnecting individual cables, the entire front panel assembly can be quickly swapped, maintaining adaptability while dramatically reducing reconfiguration time and effort.
Data Source
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AI summary
Disclosed is a distribution module for use in modular distribution panels in order to connect ports, which are connected in an analog or digital manner, to other distribution panels, outgoing lines, or terminals. The distribution module comprises several ports on a front side as well as a shielded housing that is closed on all sides. Several ports of the distribution module are interconnected by means of a single cable that has a single external sleeve.