Smart Patch Panel Control Circuitry for Port Identification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing communication network management systems face challenges in real-time identification and monitoring of switch ports without interfering with data transfer, especially during Moves, Adds, and Changes (MAC) operations, and require minimal dedicated hardware and control wires.
Innovation Solution
A communication system that uses smart patch panels and patch cables with embedded control circuitry to transmit control signals for activating visual indicators and requesting unique identification numbers over the same control wires without changing voltage polarity, enabling real-time monitoring and control of connectivity while maintaining data integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If control signals are transmitted over patch cords connecting patch panel and switch to obtain real-time ID data, then real-time monitoring and mapping of connectivity is improved, but data transfer interference and hardware complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by enabling the same control wires to serve dual purposes: transmitting both data signals for connectivity monitoring and control signals for visual indicator activation. The system reuses existing patch cord infrastructure without adding dedicated control wire pairs, thereby reducing hardware complexity while achieving real-time connectivity identification through ID data exchange between patch panel and switch
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges control signal transmission with data signal transmission by multiplexing both functions over the same physical wires. The control signals for activating visual indicators and requesting unique IDs are combined with data transfer pathways, eliminating the need for separate dedicated control wiring and reducing overall system hardware complexity
2Ease of operation
If visual indicators are activated using control signals via patch panel port to switch port, then technician identification during MAC operations is improved, but data transfer interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic action by activating visual indicators only during specific MAC operations (Move, Add, Change) rather than continuously. The control signals are transmitted periodically when connectivity changes occur, allowing technician identification at critical moments without continuously interfering with data transfer. The system waits for appropriate timing windows to activate indicators, minimizing disruption to ongoing data communication
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary approach by using the patch panel as a mediator that receives control signals and manages their transmission timing. The patch panel coordinates between data transfer operations and visual indicator activation, ensuring that control signals are sent at optimal moments that minimize interference with data communication while still providing necessary technician guidance during MAC operations
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a communication system that enables transmitting control signals between communication devices connected with a communication cable. The control signals are either to activate a visual indicator associated with the second port or to request a unique identification number and the signals are transmitted without changing the voltage polarity between the control wires. The communication cable may include at one end a connector having a control circuitry, a visual indicator and a unique identification number.