Fiber Optic Connector Push/Pull Tab Securing Protrusions
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Modern high-capacity optical systems require precise mechanical and optical alignment of fiber optic ferrules and connectors, with existing solutions often failing to secure these components effectively during installation and removal, leading to signal loss due to misalignment.
Innovation Solution
A fiber optic connector design featuring a push/pull tab with protrusions and a springless mechanism, where catches on the back-body secure the tab to the front body, allowing it to move along a channel for secure engagement and release within an adapter receptacle, eliminating the need for a bias spring and enhancing alignment precision.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional push/pull tab connector with spring is used, then the connector can be easily installed and removed, but the alignment precision may be compromised due to insufficient securing during installation and removal
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into distinct functional segments: the push/pull tab for operation, the securing protrusions for precision locking, and the body for structural support. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while working together as a unified system that maintains alignment precision during easy installation and removal operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The securing protrusions are pre-configured on the push/pull tab to automatically engage with corresponding features on the ferrule and connector body. This preliminary configuration ensures that alignment precision is maintained from the moment of insertion, eliminating the need for additional securing actions during installation and removal.
2Reliability
If a spring mechanism is used to bias the push/pull tab forward, then the connector can be securely held, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The traditional spring mechanism is extracted and replaced with a simpler geometric solution. The pushing surface is designed with specific angles and the securing protrusions are strategically positioned to provide the necessary engagement force through pure geometry, eliminating the need for elastic components and reducing device complexity while maintaining reliable secure engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector structure itself provides the securing function through its geometric design. The securing protrusions and corresponding recesses create a self-locking mechanism that automatically engages and disengages during push/pull operations, making the system self-sufficient without requiring external spring components to provide biasing force.
3Manufacturing precision
If the push/pull tab is securely attached to the front body, then the alignment is maintained, but the tab cannot be easily moved for release
Solution Approach 1:
The connection between the push/pull tab and front body transitions from a static rigid attachment to a dynamic controlled movement system. The tab is securely attached through securing protrusions that lock in the engaged position, but can be easily moved during release due to the specific geometric configuration that allows controlled disengagement when force is applied to the pushing surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The geometric parameters of the securing protrusions and their interaction surfaces are specifically designed to change the mechanical characteristics during operation. When engaged, the parameters provide strong locking; when force is applied during release, the parameters allow controlled movement. This parameter optimization resolves the contradiction between secure attachment and ease of release.
Data Source
AI summary
A fiber optic connector having a push/pull tab wherein the push/pull tab travel is limited by an internal stop to release a connector from a receptacle, and the push/pull tab is releasably secured from connector. The push/pull tab has a plural of securing protrusions that secure the tab to the connector housing.