Reduced Footprint RJ45 Connectors for Single Twisted Pair Applications
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Solution Overview
Problem
Standard Ethernet connectors are oversized for applications requiring only a single twisted pair of conductors, leading to inefficiencies in data and power transfer due to their bulkiness and inability to accommodate compact configurations.
Innovation Solution
Development of a family of connectors, including free and fixed connectors, and an adapter, designed for a single twisted pair of conductors, utilizing an RJ 45 style configuration in reduced footprints such as one-half, one-third, or one-quarter the size of a standard RJ 45 connector, with insulation piercing contacts for compact and efficient coupling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If standard Ethernet connectors are used for single twisted pair applications, then data and power transfer can be achieved, but the connector size and weight are excessive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the essential functional elements needed for single twisted pair connectivity from the standard Ethernet connector design. This includes removing unnecessary contact pins, insulation displacement structures, and housing components that are required for four-pair Ethernet but redundant for single-pair applications, resulting in a significantly reduced connector size and weight while maintaining data and power transfer capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The connector design is segmented into minimal necessary components: a reduced housing, simplified contact elements (such as fork contacts or insulation piercing contacts), and essential shielding elements. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function in single-pair applications, eliminating the bulk associated with full Ethernet connector designs
2Area of moving object
If standard Ethernet connectors are used, then full Ethernet functionality is supported, but the connector footprint is too large for compact configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The reduced-connector design maintains universality by supporting both data transmission and power delivery functions within a compact form factor. The connector is designed to work with various cable types and can be adapted to different mounting configurations, preserving versatility while achieving the smaller footprint required for compact applications
3Volume of moving object
If connector size is reduced for single twisted pair, then compactness is achieved, but manufacturing complexity may increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by scaling down the connector dimensions to appropriate values for single-pair applications. The housing dimensions, contact element sizes, and overall geometry are optimized to specific parameters that enable compact packaging while maintaining manufacturability through standard fabrication processes and materials
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient data and power transfer with reduced size and weight, supporting configurations like patch cords and mounting options, while maintaining compatibility with standard RJ 45 interfaces, thus addressing the need for compact connectors for single twisted pair applications.
Implementation Method 1
The first and second contacts are contained within the connector housing and are configured to be electrically coupled to a single twisted pair of conductors
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 various patch cord and mounting configurations. In certain embodiments, the one or more of the family of connectors adopts an RJ 45 style connector or RJ 45 style jack/receptacle configuration in a reduced footprint, e.g. one-half, one-third or one-quarter the size of a standard RJ 45 connector or jack/receptacle.