Stackable Patch Cable Shielded Signal Splitting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional audio signal splitters and patch bays are large, cumbersome, and expensive, and they expose audio signals to non-shielded environments, leading to signal interference and loss of fidelity.
Innovation Solution
A stackable patch cable design that maintains a shielded environment by electrically connecting shielded contacts throughout the cable, allowing for signal splitting while preventing external interference, using a flexible shield conductor and insulating sleeves to protect the signal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional splitters or patch bays are used to split audio signals, then signal distribution is achieved, but the signal is exposed to non-shielded environments causing interference and loss of fidelity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements nesting by placing one shielded cable inside another shielded cable, with the inner cable containing the signal conductors and the outer cable providing additional shielding. This nested configuration allows the signal to remain enclosed within multiple layers of Faraday cages throughout the entire signal path, preventing exposure to non-shielded environments while enabling signal distribution to multiple destinations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional splitters or patch bays are used to split audio signals, then signal distribution is achieved, but the devices are large, cumbersome, and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of multiple cables and connectors into a single integrated cable assembly. By combining signal conductors, insulation layers, and shielding structures into one unified patch cable with male-female-male connector configuration, the invention eliminates the need for separate splitters or patch bays, significantly reducing device size and complexity while maintaining signal splitting capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the cable into distinct functional sections: male connector, first cable segment with shield, female connector, second cable segment with shield, and male connector. This segmentation allows each section to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall compactness, avoiding the bulk of traditional splitter devices.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional splitters or patch bays are used to split audio signals, then signal distribution is achieved, but the cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal cable design that can serve multiple functions: it can split signals to two destinations, extend cable length, or be used as a standard patch cable. The male-female-male connector configuration and shielded construction make it adaptable to various audio equipment connections, replacing multiple specialized devices with one multi-functional cable, thereby reducing overall system cost.
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 and high-fidelity signal splitting and distribution without the need for additional splitters or patch bays, reducing signal loss and interference, and allowing for easy connectivity and cascading of cables.
Implementation Method 1
The electrical shield found in these cables acts as Faraday cage to reduce external electrical noise that might be affecting the audio signal. The electrical shield also reduces the emission of electromagnetic radiation that might be generated by the signal
Implementation Method 2
A first sleeve of an insulating material is positioned about the core conductor. a second sleeve of an insulating material is positioned about the shield conductor
Data Source
AI summary
A stack able patch cable for splitting an electrical signal is described. The patch cable includes two plug members connected via a cable. Each plug member includes a male end and a female end. The male end has a male signal contact and a male shield contact electrically isolated from the male signal contact. The female end includes a female signal contact and a female shield contact electrically isolated from the female signal contact. Additionally, the female signal contact is electrically connected with the male signal contact and the female shield contact is electrically connected with the male shield contact. Further, the female end is configured to receive a male end of a plug to electrically connect the corresponding contacts. Thus, the plug member is capable of receiving and connecting directly with another plug member to split a signal while maintaining signal quality.