Single Pair Ethernet Coupler With Symmetric Halves for Cable Extension
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a coupler device with two female ports to connect two short Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) plugs into one long communications cable, along with a fixed module that can accommodate the SPE coupler and mount it into communications hardware with the Panduit Mini-Com mounting interface.
Innovation Solution
An electrical coupler with identical housing halves and contacts, featuring a shield wrap for signal routing and grounding, and latches for secure mounting, designed to meet IEC and TIA specifications, allowing for the connection of two SPE plugs into a single long cable and integration with various communication hardware.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If traditional multi-pair cabling is used to extend communication cables, then cable length can be increased, but termination labor and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the cable extension function into modular segments using individual coupler devices that connect two SPE plugs. Each coupler is a self-contained unit with standardized interfaces, allowing cable length extension without requiring complex multi-pair cabling or extensive termination work. The segmentation principle is embodied in the separate, interchangeable coupler module that simplifies the overall system architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupler device serves multiple functions: it extends cable length, maintains signal integrity, provides grounding, and enables modular assembly. The identical housing halves and contacts design allows the same component to function as either male or female connector depending on orientation, universalizing the interface design and reducing the need for different specialized components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If custom coupler designs are developed for different mounting interfaces, then adaptability to various communications hardware increases, but device complexity and manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the coupler function with the mounting interface function into a single integrated fixed module. The fixed module combines the SPE coupler assembly with the Panduit Mini-Com mounting interface, eliminating the need for separate mounting mechanisms. This consolidation reduces the number of discrete components and simplifies the overall device architecture while maintaining adaptability to standard mounting hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixed module design provides universal mounting capability through the Panduit Mini-Com interface, allowing the same coupler assembly to be installed in various communications hardware platforms. By standardizing the mounting interface rather than creating custom solutions for each hardware platform, the invention achieves broad compatibility without increasing design complexity.
3Reliability
If shield wrap is added for signal routing and grounding, then signal integrity and bonding improve, but manufacturing steps and assembly complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The shield wrap is pre-formed and pre-positioned within the housing assembly before final coupling. The grounding path is established in advance through the housing structure, and the shield wrap is configured to engage with grounding contacts during the assembly process. This preliminary preparation of the shielding and grounding system reduces the complexity of final assembly while ensuring proper signal integrity.
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical coupler has first and second housing halves and first and second contacts retained within the first and second housing halves. Wherein the first housing half is identical to the second housing half and the first contact is identical to the second contact.