Intelligent patch panel sensor modules having infrared emitters and sensors for detecting patch cords
US8344900B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 5, 2009 |
| Grant date | Jan 1, 2013 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 25, 2031 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04Q1/136
- WIPO fieldTelecommunications
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A communications patching system includes a patch panel having a plurality of connector ports on a side thereof, and a sensor module secured to the patch panel side. The sensor module includes a plurality of pairs of IR emitters and sensors, with each emitter/sensor pair located adjacent to a respective one of the connector ports. Each emitter/sensor pair is configured to detect insertion and removal of a patch cord connector from a respective connector port. The sensor module includes a housing and a printed circuit board (PCB) secured to the housing. The IR emitters and sensors are electrically connected to the PCB, and the PCB includes a processor and memory for controlling the IR emitters and sensors.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.