Switchable Network Jack with Rocker Switch for RJ45 and GG45 Compatibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing network jacks face issues with high mechanical complexity, electrical imbalance, and increased return loss and insertion loss at higher bandwidths, particularly when switching between RJ45 and high-bandwidth modes like GG45, which affects reliability and performance.
Innovation Solution
A switchable communication jack with a pivoting rocker switch and a PCB that efficiently converts horizontal plug insertion to vertical motion, allowing seamless operation between RJ45 and high-bandwidth modes with minimal frictional losses and improved contact positioning, using a housing with distinct contact pairs and ground contacts for balanced operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a GG45 jack design is used to support high-bandwidth modes, then backwards compatibility with RJ45 plugs is achieved, but mechanical complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The jack is designed with a universal contact structure that can accommodate both RJ45 and GG45 plug types through the same aperture. The contact arrangement includes sets of contacts that can interface with either plug type, allowing one jack to perform multiple functions without requiring separate physical interfaces for each standard.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If GG45 contact positions are separated to reduce crosstalk, then electrical performance improves, but return loss and insertion loss increase
Solution Approach 1:
The jack employs different contact arrangements for different contact pairs. Specifically, contacts 1-2 and 7-8 are positioned differently from contacts 3-6 and 4-5, with each arrangement optimized for its specific function. This local differentiation allows crosstalk reduction where needed while maintaining optimal electrical performance for each contact pair.
Solution Approach 2:
The jack incorporates a movable contact structure that can dynamically adjust contact positions based on the inserted plug type. The contact arrangement can switch between RJ45 mode and GG45 mode, allowing the electrical characteristics to be optimized for the specific operating mode being used, thereby reducing both crosstalk and signal loss.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a protrusion on the plug nose is used to actuate the jack for alternative contact positions, then switching between modes is enabled, but mechanical complexity and frictional losses increase
Solution Approach 1:
The jack employs a spring-loaded contact structure that automatically adjusts to the correct contact position based on the inserted plug type. The mechanism uses the physical characteristics of the inserted plug itself to trigger the appropriate contact configuration, eliminating the need for complex external actuation systems while maintaining reliable mode switching.
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
The solution reduces mechanical complexity and electrical imbalances, enhancing reliability and performance by ensuring cost-effective actuation between RJ45 and high-bandwidth modes with reduced insertion force and improved signal integrity.
Implementation Method 1
a pivoting rocker switch with an arm to efficiently convert the horizontal insertion and removal of an ARJ45 plug to a vertical motion of the switching PCB
Implementation Method 2
a spring to push the rocker switch to an initial position
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to the field of telecommunication jacks, and more specifically, to network jacks adapted for operating with more than one type of a plug. In an embodiment, the present invention is a communication connector that includes a housing configured to receive a communication plug, a printed circuit board connected to the housing, and a rocker switch pivotally connected to the housing, the rocker switch configured for actuating the printed circuit board. In a variation of this embodiment, the communication connector could be used in a communication system having communication equipment therein.