Blocking Member for Duplex Connector Accidental Disconnection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Duplex fiber optic connectors are prone to accidental disconnection, which can lead to costly interruptions and errors during network maintenance, and existing security features like hoods can interfere with connector placement and increase the risk of incorrect disconnection.
Innovation Solution
A blocking member is installed beneath the trigger of the duplex connector to prevent accidental depression, allowing direct operation by a tool for release, and a keying system differentiates between sets of connectors for varying security levels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a hood is added to cover the latches for security, then accidental disconnection is prevented, but the connector placement is interfered with and the risk of incorrect disconnection increases
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking member is divided into distinct functional segments: a trigger-blocking portion that prevents accidental trigger depression, and a tool-accessible portion that allows intentional disconnection. This segmentation enables the blocking member to provide security while maintaining ease of operation through proper tool usage.
Solution Approach 2:
The blocking member acts as an intermediary element between the trigger and the user's accidental contact. It blocks direct access to the trigger mechanism while allowing controlled access through a specific tool, thereby preventing accidental disconnection without completely blocking operational access.
2Reliability
If a blocking member is installed beneath the trigger, then accidental depression is prevented, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking member is designed to nest within the existing connector structure, specifically positioning itself beneath the trigger mechanism. This nesting approach allows the blocking member to be integrated into the existing design without requiring complete structural redesign, thereby minimizing the increase in device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The blocking member employs a thin, flexible design that can be easily installed beneath the trigger. Its streamlined profile minimizes interference with other connector components while effectively blocking accidental trigger depression, thus adding minimal complexity to the overall device structure.
3Reliability
If a keying system is implemented to differentiate connector sets, then incorrect disconnection is prevented, but the ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The keying system introduces asymmetric features between different connector sets, such as differently shaped blocking members or tool requirements. This asymmetry ensures that only the correct tool can access and remove the specific blocking member, preventing incorrect disconnection while maintaining ease of operation for authorized users with the proper tool.
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 reduces the likelihood of accidental disconnection, ensures secure network operations, and prevents incorrect disconnection by requiring a specific tool for release, enhancing reliability and security.
Implementation Method 1
A flexible trigger 27 is attached to the clip body 17 at a living hinge portion 29. The trigger 27 may be depressed to apply simultaneous downward pressure onto the first and second latches 19 and 23.
Implementation Method 2
As the first and second plugs 13 and 15 enter onto the receptacles, the ears 21 and 25 snap upwardly as the ears 21 and 25 pass by internal ledges within the receptacles. The engagements between the ears 21 and 25 and the internal ledges within the receptacles act to retain the first and second plugs 13 and 15 within the receptacles, respectively.
Data Source
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AI summary
A blocking member is sized and shaped to be installed beneath a trigger or triggers of a duplex connector. The blocking member prevents depression of the trigger(s) of the duplex connector and hence prevents depression of latches to release the plugs of the duplex connector from mated receptacles. The blocking member does not block actuation of the latches of the duplex connector. Through the use of a tool, the trigger(s) may be bypassed and the latches operated directly by the tool to release the plugs of the duplex connector when mated to receptacles.