Side-Plane Connector Modules for Blind-Mate Blade Interconnection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional rack-mounted network elements (NEs) face challenges with limited real estate for optical fiber connections, obstructed airflow, and complex cabling access due to the reliance on front and rear connectors, making manual fiber connection time-consuming and difficult.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of side-plane connector modules that allow for blind-mate connections on the sides of blade modules, utilizing reciprocating mechanisms and alignment structures to extend and retract connectors, enabling efficient connectivity beyond the traditional front and rear panels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If conventional front and rear connectors are used for optical fiber connections, then the connection structure is simple, but the real estate for connections is limited and cable management is complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces side-plane connectors that utilize the lateral dimensions of the blade module housing, transforming the connection interface from traditional front/rear panels to side surfaces. This dimensional expansion provides additional connection real estate without increasing the footprint of the device, allowing more optical fiber connections to be accommodated while simplifying cable management through better spatial distribution.
2Productivity
If manual fiber connection is performed on conventional connectors, then the connection method is straightforward, but the process is time-consuming and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The side-plane connectors are designed with self-aligning features and intuitive coupling mechanisms that enable installers to quickly connect optical fibers without complex alignment procedures. The connector geometry and positioning structures guide proper insertion, reducing installation time and labor requirements while maintaining connection reliability.
3Ease of operation
If connectors are arranged only on front and rear panels, then the structure is conventional and simple, but airflow is obstructed and access for repairs is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The connection interfaces are segmented from the traditional front/rear panel concentration to distributed side-plane locations. This segmentation allows airflow to pass more freely through the front and rear openings without being blocked by dense connector arrangements, while simultaneously providing easier access to individual connectors for repair operations without requiring disconnection of entire cable bundles.
4Area of stationary object
If side-plane connector modules are incorporated, then connectivity real estate is increased and cable management is simplified, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The side-plane connector modules are designed as standardized, multi-functional components that can be integrated into various blade module configurations. These modules serve multiple purposes: providing connection interfaces, enabling self-alignment, facilitating quick connectivity, and maintaining structural integrity. The universal design allows the same connector module architecture to be applied across different device form factors, reducing overall system complexity despite the added functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are provided for increasing space for external connectors on network components mounted on a rack or cabinet. According to one implementation, a Network Element (NE) assembly includes a blade module having a relatively flat form factor. The blade module, for instance, includes at least a front section, a rear section, a left-side section, and a right-side section. When the blade module is mounted in a rack, the front section thereof is arranged at or near a front portion of the rack and the rear section thereof is arranged at or near a back portion of the rack. Furthermore, the NE assembly further includes a first side-plane connector module configured to be coupled with the left-side section or right-side section of the blade module.