Universal Cage Receptacle for Multi-Width Plug Connectivity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Data centers face increased costs and operational complexity due to the variety of cable connectors required for different cabling scenarios, necessitating a solution that provides compatibility across different plug sizes and form factors.
Innovation Solution
A cabling arrangement featuring a receptacle that can accommodate both individual-width and multi-width plugs, allowing for reverse compatibility by using a cage structure with movable walls and latching mechanisms to secure plugs of varying widths, enabling the same cage to receive either a single multi-width plug or a combination of individual-width plugs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple different types of cable connectors are used to satisfy various cabling scenarios, then adaptability to different cabling needs is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The receptacle is designed with a universal cage structure that can accommodate multiple types of plugs (e.g., SFP, QSFP, OSFP) through a single interface. The cage includes movable walls and latching mechanisms that adapt to different plug widths and form factors, allowing one receptacle to perform multiple cabling functions without requiring different connector types.
Solution Approach 2:
The cage incorporates movable walls that can shift position to accommodate plugs of varying widths. The latching mechanisms are designed to dynamically engage with different plug types, allowing the receptacle structure to adapt its configuration based on the inserted plug's dimensions and form factor.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple different types of cable connectors are used to satisfy various cabling scenarios, then adaptability to different cabling needs is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The receptacle design consolidates multiple connector functions into a single universal interface, reducing the need to manufacture and stock multiple different connector types. This universal design reduces material costs, simplifies assembly processes, and decreases inventory requirements while maintaining compatibility with various plug types.
3Device complexity
If a single receptacle accommodates different plug sizes, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability of signal transmission may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The cage structure incorporates localized features such as position-specific latching points, targeted guide structures, and localized movable walls that ensure proper alignment and secure engagement for each specific plug type. These localized adaptations maintain reliable signal transmission by ensuring correct physical and electrical connection for each plug configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable walls and adaptive latching mechanisms dynamically adjust to ensure proper engagement and signal transmission for different plug types. The latching mechanisms are designed to provide reliable electrical contact specific to each plug's pin configuration, maintaining signal integrity despite the variety of plug formats.
Data Source
AI summary
A cage assembly may define a part of a computing appliance. The assembly can include a cage formed by walls and defining a continuous interior volume bounded by a top face, a bottom face, a right face, a left face, a front face, and a rear face. A first edge connector may be within a leftward portion of the interior volume. A second edge connector may be within a rightward portion of the interior volume and positioned laterally from the first edge connector. The arrangement may permit engagement with multiple individual-width plugs (e.g., each bearing an individual paddle card) or a single plug (e.g., bearing multiple paddle cards spaced laterally from one another and aligned for engagement with the first and second edge connectors within the cage).