3x8 Stacked RJ45 Connector for 1U Rack Density
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current networking components face challenges in maximizing the number of RJ45 jacks per unit area within limited space, often requiring proprietary connectors or lacking sufficient density, which leads to inefficient use of rack space and increased costs.
Innovation Solution
A 3×8 stacked RJ45 connector with integrated LEDs is designed for a 1U product form factor, featuring a printed circuit board and non-proprietary RJ45 jacks arranged in three horizontal rows and multiple vertical columns, compliant with open-source standards, allowing for increased density without proprietary components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If proprietary modular connectors are used to increase networking component density, then the number of jacks per unit area increases, but the device complexity and cost increase due to proprietary components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by using standard RJ45 connectors that conform to published standards (e.g., TIA/EIA-568), making the networking component compatible with existing infrastructure and eliminating the need for proprietary connectors. This allows the same connector type to serve multiple networking functions while maintaining compatibility across different devices and vendors.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the spatial arrangement parameter by stacking RJ45 connectors in a dense configuration within a 1U rack mount form factor, optimizing the number of jacks per unit area while using standard connectors. This parameter optimization achieves high density without requiring proprietary components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If more rack units are deployed to accommodate networking components, then the available networking functionality increases, but the physical space, power consumption, and cooling needs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensionality change by transitioning from a horizontal arrangement of connectors to a vertical stacked arrangement within the 1U form factor. This three-dimensional stacking approach maximizes the use of vertical space, allowing more networking functionality to be packed into a smaller physical footprint without increasing the rack units required.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements nesting by placing multiple RJ45 connectors within a compact 1U chassis, where connectors are arranged in a space-efficient configuration that maximizes the use of available internal volume. This nested arrangement allows high-density networking functionality within a standardized small form factor.
3Device complexity
If standard non-proprietary connectors are used, then the device complexity and cost are reduced, but the achievable density of jacks per unit area is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes spatial parameters by arranging standard RJ45 connectors in a dense stacked configuration within the 1U form factor, achieving high jack density without changing the connector type. This parameter optimization demonstrates that standard connectors can achieve high density through clever spatial arrangement rather than requiring proprietary high-density connectors.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional connector arrangements to three-dimensional stacking, utilizing the vertical dimension within the 1U chassis to maximize jack density. This dimensional change allows standard connectors to achieve high density by efficiently utilizing available space in all three dimensions.
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
This solution enables a higher density of network connections within a compact space, optimizing rack usage and reducing costs by utilizing standard, non-proprietary connectors, while providing LED indicators for status monitoring.
Implementation Method 1
A 3×8 stacked RJ45 connector with integrated LEDs option for a 1U product form factor
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and apparatuses are disclosed having a 3×8 stacked RJ45 connector with an integrated LEDs option for a 1U product form factor to provide increased density of an RJ45 connector which utilizes open source and non-proprietary modular connectors in conformity with published standards. For example, in one embodiment such systems and apparatuses include a networking component having therein a connector which includes a plurality of RJ45 jacks arranged into exactly three horizontal rows and a plurality of vertical columns; a printed circuit board to electrically interface with each of the plurality of RJ45 jacks; and a 1× Rack Unit (1U) chassis having the connector and printed circuit board therein, in which at least a portion of the connector extends into a horizontal plane occupied by the printed circuit board. Rack systems and methods are further described for employing such a networking component.