Low Profile Connector Latching Mechanism with Roll Pin Actuator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Small and low-profile connectors, such as those used in SFP applications, face issues with disengagement due to deformation of nylon pull tabs, leading to elongation and damage, making them unreliable in high-density electronic devices.
Innovation Solution
A low-profile plug connector with a latching mechanism featuring a cantilevered structure, a roll pin actuator, and a cam surface that prevents elongation of the pull tab, allowing for easy assembly and operation with a minimum number of components, and maintains the latching mechanism in a compact form.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a nylon pull tab with integrated roll pin is used to actuate the latching mechanism, then the connector can be easily operated, but the pull tab deforms and elongates with repeated use, leading to unreliable latching
Solution Approach 1:
The roll pin is extracted from the nylon pull tab and made as a separate metal component captured in a recess in the connector housing. This separates the actuating function from the pull tab material, allowing the pull tab to be simple nylon without structural demands, while the metal roll pin provides durable, precise actuation of the latching mechanism.
2Ease of operation
If the pull tab slot is designed to receive a lug on the connector housing to limit movement, then over-pulling is prevented, but the slot elongates with repeated use, eliminating the ability to return the latching mechanism to its initial location
Solution Approach 1:
The movement-limiting function is extracted from the nylon pull tab slot and transferred to a metal roll pin captured in a recess. The roll pin physically limits the pull tab's movement range through its position in the recess, preventing both over-pulling and ensuring proper return positioning without relying on slot dimensions that would deform.
3Ease of operation
If excessive force is exerted on the pull tab to disengage the connector, then the connector can be separated from the guide frame, but the actuator is damaged and requires replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator combines nylon pull tab material with a metal roll pin component. The metal roll pin provides the strength and durability needed to withstand repeated actuation forces, while the nylon pull tab provides ease of gripping and pulling. This composite construction prevents actuator damage even when excessive force is applied.
4Volume of moving object
If the latching mechanism is made compact for low-profile connector design, then space is saved in high-density electronic devices, but the actuating mechanism becomes increasingly difficult to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The latching mechanism is segmented into distinct functional components: a simple nylon pull tab for user interaction, a metal roll pin for precise actuation control, and a cantilevered latching arm for engagement. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently, maintaining compact overall dimensions while ensuring easy operation through the simple pull-tab interface.
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
The solution ensures reliable engagement and disengagement of the connector with reduced risk of damage, maintaining the connector's low profile and simplicity of operation, even with repeated use.
Implementation Method 1
The latching member includes a cam surface that extends rearwardly and a sliding actuator is provided to operate the latching mechanism upwardly so that a user may lift the latching member with a simple pull action
Implementation Method 2
A latching mechanism is disposed on the connector housing, primarily on the body portion thereof, and has a cantilevered structure responsive to a pulling action on an actuator that disengages a latching arm of the latching mechanism from engagement with the opposing guide frame
Data Source
AI summary
A small, low-profile plug connector for use with electronic devices provides a latching member with a pair of hooks that engage mating holes in a guide frame, and which can be easily disengaged from the guide frame or opposing connector or housing. The connector includes an elongated actuator interposed between the connector housing and latching member and the actuator terminates in a cylindrical cam member that is captured in a recess on the connector housing such that rearward movement of the actuator imparts a raising action to the latching member.