Cable Connector Retention Design for Optoelectronic Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing active optical cable products are difficult to permanently attach and connect to optoelectronic modules, complicating manufacturing and inventory management, and may disconnect or become improperly connected due to design limitations.
Innovation Solution
A cable connector and locking mechanism that uses a crimp ring with a tab and sleeve locking portion to securely attach the active optical cable to the optoelectronic module, allowing for permanent engagement without additional components like screws, facilitating easy assembly and reducing the risk of disconnection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a pluggable connector design is used, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to potential disconnection
Solution Approach 1:
The connector employs a dynamic locking mechanism with spring-loaded arms that automatically engage and lock when the connector is inserted. The locking arms can dynamically adjust their position and provide continuous locking force, ensuring the connection remains secure while still allowing for easy insertion and removal when needed.
2Reliability
If additional locking components like screws are added, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking arms are integrated directly into the connector housing as unified structural elements rather than separate components. This merging of the locking mechanism with the main connector body eliminates the need for additional screws or separate locking devices, achieving reliable permanent attachment while maintaining simple assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded locking arms automatically engage with the receptacle features upon insertion and maintain continuous locking force without requiring additional fastening operations. The mechanism is self-actuating and provides automatic locking, eliminating the need for manual screw tightening or additional assembly steps.
3Ease of manufacture
If a simple connector design is used, then ease of manufacture is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to disconnection risk
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into distinct functional segments: the locking arms as separate movable elements within the housing, the spring mechanism as an independent component, and the engagement features as integrated elements. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured and assembled independently using simple processes, while the combined structure provides reliable connection security.
Data Source
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Figure 3A
AI summary
An example embodiment includes a pluggable active optical cable connector configured to permanently maintain engagement of an optical interface included in an optoelectronic module. The pluggable active optic cable connector includes a lens connection section which connects a plurality of optical fibers to the optical interface, a latching portion which engages with a latch receiving portion of the optoelectronic module, the latching portion including a first engagement portion which engages with an optoelectronic engagement portion of the optical interface and a second engagement portion, and a locking portion which engages with the second engagement portion of the latching portion and locks the lens connection section in place with respect to the optoelectronic module as a plug insertion force is applied to the pluggable active optical cable connector so as to prevent the lens connection section from disengaging from the optical interface of the optoelectronic module.