Bulkhead Connector Mounting Device for Fiber Optic Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
The integration of fiber optic communication interfaces into residential gateways is costly and complex due to the fragility of fiber optic cables and the need for precise handling during testing and assembly, which increases the risk of damage.
Innovation Solution
A mounting device that allows for the manual transfer of a bulkhead feed-through connector between the electrical card and the housing without disconnecting the fiber optic cable, using flexible attachment lugs and centering pins to simplify and expedite the process, reducing handling risks and costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional testing and assembly procedures are used with multiple bulkhead connectors, then testing can be performed, but manufacturing cost and complexity increase due to multiple components and extensive fiber optic cable handling
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting device combines the bulkhead connector, mounting bracket, and positioning features into a single integrated unit. This allows the connector to be mounted directly on the housing during final assembly without requiring separate mounting operations, reducing the number of components and simplifying the manufacturing process while maintaining fiber optic cable integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting device serves multiple functions: it provides mechanical support for the bulkhead connector, enables positioning during testing, facilitates mounting on the housing, and allows for easy disassembly. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate testing fixtures and mounting brackets, reducing overall device complexity
2Ease of manufacture
If fiber optic cable is disconnected and reconnected during assembly, then component mounting is flexible, but the risk of damaging the fragile fiber optic cable increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting device is designed with pre-positioned features that allow the bulkhead connector to be mounted in its final position during the testing phase. This preliminary mounting action eliminates the need to disconnect and reconnect the fiber optic cable later during final assembly, reducing damage risk while maintaining manufacturing ease
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting device acts as an intermediary that holds the bulkhead connector in place during testing and then facilitates its transfer to the final housing position. This intermediary mechanism allows the connector to remain connected to the fiber optic cable throughout the process, eliminating repeated connection/disconnection cycles that could damage the cable
3Ease of operation
If multiple bulkhead connectors are used for testing and final assembly, then testing operations can be performed, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting device is designed to perform both testing and final assembly functions with a single bulkhead connector. The device includes features that enable testing operations while maintaining the connector for final installation, eliminating the need to purchase and install a second connector and reducing overall manufacturing cost
Data Source
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AI summary
Mounting device (7) for mounting a bulkhead feed-through connector (1) onto a support, the mounting device comprising: - a housing for receiving the bulkhead feed-through connector, the housing having an opening for connecting a similar connector to the bulkhead feed-through connector; - snap-on means for snapping the mounting device to the support; - manual actuation means cooperating with the snap-on means to allow manual mounting and dismounting of the mounting device. Corresponding electrical equipment and method for manufacturing such equipment.