Single-Twisted-Pair Connectors With LC-Style Footprint
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing Ethernet connectors are designed for four twisted pairs of conductors, which is not optimal for applications that only require a single twisted pair, leading to inefficiencies in data and power transfer.
Innovation Solution
A family of connectors specifically designed for a single twisted pair of conductors, including free, fixed, and adapter configurations, which can adopt LC fiber optic style and footprint configurations, or modified versions thereof, to accommodate various patch cord and mounting configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If standard Ethernet connectors designed for four twisted pairs are used, then compatibility with existing Ethernet infrastructure is maintained, but the connector size and complexity are excessive for single twisted pair applications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the necessary components for single twisted pair connectivity from the standard four-pair Ethernet connector design. The connector housing, contacts, and internal structure are redesigned to accommodate only two conductors, eliminating unnecessary components while maintaining compatibility with Ethernet networking standards and infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector design is segmented into specialized components optimized for single twisted pair use. The socket contacts are arranged in a specific configuration with insulating barriers positioned to minimize crosstalk, and the internal geometry is divided to accommodate only the necessary two conductors, creating a compact and efficient design.
2Adaptability or versatility
If standard Ethernet connectors are used for single twisted pair, then infrastructure compatibility is maintained, but data and power transfer efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The connector design implements local quality optimization by positioning insulating barriers specifically between the two contacts to minimize crosstalk, arranging the contacts in an offset configuration that reduces electromagnetic interference, and designing the internal geometry to optimize signal integrity for single twisted pair applications, thereby improving data and power transfer efficiency.
3Adaptability or versatility
If standard Ethernet connectors are used, then existing infrastructure compatibility is maintained, but cross-talk between conductors increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces insulating barriers as intermediary elements between the two socket contacts. These barriers act as mediators that block electromagnetic fields and prevent crosstalk between the conductors, while allowing the connector to maintain compatibility with existing Ethernet infrastructure through standardized external dimensions and mating interfaces.
Data Source
AI summary
A family of connectors to accommodate a single twisted pair of conductors is disclosed herein. The family of connectors includes a free connector, a fixed connector, and an adapter; the free and/or fixed connectors can be modified to accommodate the adapter configuration and/or modified to accommodate various patch cord configurations. In certain embodiments, the one or more of the family of connectors adopts an LC fiber optic style connector configuration and an LC fiber optic footprint configuration. In certain examples, one or more of the family of connectors adopts an LC fiber optic style connector configuration but in a footprint that is larger or smaller than the footprint of the LC fiber optic footprint. Other configurations may also be adopted.