Connector Element With Segmented Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing plug elements, such as SFP and QSFP connectors, face issues with reliable and reversible locking/unlocking mechanisms, particularly due to the risk of pull tab tearing and incomplete unlocking caused by tolerance problems in production, which can lead to mechanical overload and failure in emergency unlocking scenarios.
Innovation Solution
A plug element design featuring a two-part locking mechanism with a pull tab outside the housing and a rocker mechanism inside, allowing for customer-specific pull tabs and emergency unlocking via a tool-accessible actuating element, along with a spring element for secure locking and a metallic shield plate for EMC shielding, ensuring reliable and reversible locking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a one-piece plastic locking element with pull tab is used, then the structure is simple, but the pull tab may tear off and emergency unlocking becomes impossible
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element is divided into two separate parts: a plastic pull tab and a metal locking element. The pull tab can be replaced if torn, while the metal locking element remains permanently attached to the housing, ensuring emergency unlocking capability is preserved.
Solution Approach 2:
The pull tab is designed as a replaceable component that can be discarded if damaged and replaced with a new one. This allows the critical metal locking element to remain intact and functional for emergency unlocking operations.
2Ease of manufacture
If a one-piece plastic locking element is used, then manufacturing is simple, but mechanical overload may cause complete failure
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism combines plastic (pull tab) and metal (locking element) materials. The metal portion provides high mechanical strength and load resistance, while the plastic pull tab provides ease of operation and manufacturing.
Solution Approach 2:
The critical load-bearing function is extracted from the plastic material and assigned to a metal locking element, while the plastic pull tab retains only the function of transmitting user force to activate the locking mechanism.
3Ease of manufacture
If tolerance problems in production occur, then manufacturing is easier, but incomplete unlocking may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element is designed with specific geometric parameters including an inclined surface and a ball element that work together to ensure complete unlocking. The ball element travels along the inclined surface to reliably disengage the locking element from the housing, compensating for production tolerances.
4Adaptability or versatility
If customer-specific pull tabs are required, then customization is enabled, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pull tab is separated from the locking element, allowing the pull tab to be customized independently for different customers while the locking element remains a standardized component. This enables customization without increasing the complexity of the critical locking mechanism.
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 design enables reliable and reversible locking/unlocking, prevents mechanical overload on the locking element, and allows for emergency unlocking, addressing the issues of pull tab tearing and tolerance-related problems, while providing effective EMC shielding and a secure mechanical connection.
Implementation Method 1
a spring element arranged in the front area, which exerts a spring force in the vertical direction on the front part of the rocker with the locking element
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~5A
Figure 5B~7B
AI summary
The connector element (2A, 2B), which is designed in the manner of a flat connector, has a two-part connector housing (4) extending in the longitudinal direction and comprises a locking mechanism for forming a lockable plug-in connection with a counterpart. The locking mechanism comprises a locking element (22A, 22B) having a pull tab (24) fastened thereto. In order to enable a reliable emergency release even if the pull tab is ripped off, the locking element is led outside by means of a mounting part (20) and the pull tab (24) is irremovably fastened to said mounting part (20) by riveting the pull tab or injection molding the pull tab onto the mounting part. This also makes it possible to easily adapt the pull element (24) in a customer-specific manner.