Single-Pair Connector Module for Wide-Gauge Patch Panel Termination

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional zone cabling enclosures lack a simple termination point for conductors with a wide range of sizes and power ratings, particularly in distributed antenna systems.

Innovation Solution

A connector module with an adapter and connector jack designed for field termination of single pair cables (12-26 AWG) that fits into standardized patch panel ports, using screw-down/cage-clamp mechanisms for secure attachment and pluggable mating.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional zone cabling enclosures are used, then existing patch panel ports can be utilized, but they cannot provide simple termination points for conductors with wide range of sizes and power ratings

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecompatibility with different conductor sizes and power ratingsVSAvoidsimplicity of termination point

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The adapter is designed with a universal structure that can accommodate multiple conductor sizes (12-26 AWG) and power ratings through a single standardized interface. The internal cavity and opening dimensions are optimized to universally fit various connector jacks while maintaining compatibility with existing patch panel ports, eliminating the need for different termination points for different conductor types.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of manufacture

If standardized connector components are used, then manufacturing and installation are simplified, but accommodating wide range of conductor sizes (12-26 AWG) becomes challenging

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestandardization of connector componentsVSAvoidrange of conductor sizes accommodated

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The adapter structure implements a nested design where the internal cavity houses the connector jack, which in turn accommodates various conductor sizes. The opening in the front side surface is dimensioned to receive different connector jack types, allowing standardized components to nest within a single adapter that supports the full range of 12-26 AWG conductors through hierarchical accommodation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

3Reliability

If field termination solution is designed for specific conductor sizes, then secure attachment is achieved, but versatility across different cable sizes is limited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesecure attachment of connectorVSAvoidrange of single pair cables terminated

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The adapter design incorporates adjustable parameters in its opening dimensions and internal cavity geometry to accommodate different connector jack sizes corresponding to various cable gauges (12-26 AWG). The front side surface opening can be configured to receive different connector types while maintaining secure attachment through standardized mounting mechanisms, allowing the same adapter structure to reliably terminate cables across the full size range by adjusting to different connector parameters.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS12401163B2Single pair connector module

Publication Date: 2025.08.26 PANDUIT CORP

AI summary

A connector module is disclosed having physical dimensions for being installed into standardized, or pre-existing, structures such as a patch panel including pre-populated slot openings. The connector module provides simple field termination for different sized single pair cables using screw-down/cage-clamp for the bare single pair of conductors emerging from a centralized power equipment to be a pluggable mating connector terminating the field wires.