Behind-the-wall optical connector with integrated latch
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Solution Overview
Problem
High-density fiber optic connectors in data centers require numerous components, leading to increased costs and complexity, which can be reduced by simplifying the connector design without compromising reliability.
Innovation Solution
A low-profile, reduced-sized behind-the-wall connector design with integrated latching mechanisms and fewer components, such as the removal of the extender cap and spring, while maintaining proper ferrule alignment and secure connection through a resilient latch or tension spring, allowing for easier assembly and reduced breakage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If traditional fiber optic connectors with multiple components (extender cap, spring, latch) are used, then connection reliability is maintained, but manufacturing cost and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The latch and extender cap functions are merged into a single integrated latch component. The latch includes a latch arm that engages with the adapter housing and a latch body that integrates the extender cap structure, eliminating the need for separate extender cap and spring components while maintaining the securing function.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated latch serves multiple functions: it acts as the extender cap to protect the ferrule, provides the latching mechanism to secure the connector in the adapter, and includes a release arm for connector removal. This multi-functional design reduces component count while maintaining reliability.
2Volume of moving object
If connector size is reduced for high-density panels, then floor space and support overhead decrease, but manufacturing precision and assembly difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The ferrule alignment features (alignment pins and alignment grooves) are pre-configured in the integrated latch and adapter housing during molding, ensuring precise ferrule positioning before insertion. This preliminary alignment mechanism maintains precision despite the reduced connector size.
3Area of stationary object
If connector size is reduced for high-density panels, then floor space decreases, but the number of connectors required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated latch combines multiple previously separate components into one piece, reducing the overall connector volume and footprint. This allows more connectors to be placed in high-density panels while reducing the total component count that needs to be managed.
Data Source
AI summary
A behind-the-wall optical connector having an outer housing configured to be inserted into an adapter with a corresponding inner surface, and a latch attached to one side of housing configured to lock the connecter into an adapter opening. The latch is further configured with a locking channel and guide to accept a pull tab with a catch at one end, the pull tab releases the connector from the adapter opening when the tab is pulled rearward or away from the adapter. The ferrule assembly is inserted into a first end of the housing and when latched to the adapter, the assembly is retained in the housing without any locking structure therein.