Connector Shroud Cam Locking for Dense Fiber Panel Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical fiber connector systems require sufficient clearance for locking and unlocking motions, limiting the density of connector installations due to the need for two-handed operation and larger spacing between connectors.
Innovation Solution
A connector shroud design featuring an inner housing with a grooved control link, a cam, and a lock nut that allows for one-handed operation by rotating the coupling nut through longitudinal movement of the lock nut, eliminating the need for direct twisting and enabling closer connector placement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional two-handed locking and unlocking operation is used, then reliable locking can be achieved, but sufficient clearance space is required around the connector
Solution Approach 1:
The locking operation is segmented into two independent functions: the coupling nut handles the locking action while the lock ring provides the securing function. This segmentation allows the locking mechanism to be operated with one hand while maintaining reliable locking, as each component performs its specific function independently without requiring two-handed coordination.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock ring acts as an intermediary component between the operator and the coupling nut. By introducing this intermediate element that can be engaged or disengaged independently, the system allows one-handed operation while maintaining the reliability of the locking mechanism. The lock ring mediates the locking action by providing a secondary securing function that doesn't require direct manual manipulation of the coupling nut.
2Ease of operation
If sufficient clearance space is provided for two-handed operation, then easy operation can be achieved, but connector installation density is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The operation is segmented so that the lock ring can be engaged or disengaged with one hand while the coupling nut remains in place. This segmentation eliminates the need for two-handed coordination, reducing the clearance space required around each connector and thereby increasing the number of connectors that can be installed in a given area.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of requiring the operator to directly manipulate the coupling nut for locking (which requires two hands), the system inverts the approach by using the lock ring as the primary manual interface. The lock ring can be operated with one hand to secure or release the coupling nut, thereby reducing the space needed for operation and increasing connector density.
3Ease of operation
If larger spacing between connectors is used, then adequate operational space is ensured, but panel space utilization is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is segmented into a coupling nut and a lock ring that can be operated independently. The lock ring can be engaged or disengaged with one hand, eliminating the need for large clearance spaces around each connector. This allows connectors to be placed closer together on the panel, maximizing space utilization while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking operation transitions from requiring spatial clearance in the horizontal plane (two-handed twisting motion) to a linear push/pull motion of the lock ring along the longitudinal axis. This dimensional change in the operation vector allows connectors to be positioned closer together horizontally while still providing adequate operational space through the longitudinal movement of the lock ring.
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
Enhances the installation density of connectors by allowing single-handed locking and unlocking without the need for additional space, enabling more compact arrangements in panels.
Implementation Method 1
The cam is disposed on the inner housing and is rotatable on the inner housing... When the first pin moves in the grooved control link in the longitudinal direction, the lock nut contacts the cam to make the cam rotate. The rotating cam applies a force perpendicular to the longitudinal direction to the tab to rotate the coupling nut.
Implementation Method 2
The rotating cam applies a force perpendicular to the longitudinal direction to the tab to rotate the coupling nut
Data Source
AI summary
The connector shroud of the present invention includes an inner housing, a cam, a coupling nut and a lock nut. The inner housing has a grooved control link formed on an outer surface. The grooved control link extends in a longitudinal direction. The cam is disposed on the inner housing and is rotatable on the inner housing. The coupling nut is sleeved onto the inner housing. The coupling nut is configured to be coupled to an object. The coupling nut includes a tab extending from a rear end. The tab has a control slot formed thereon. The control slot extends in a direction not parallel to the longitudinal direction. The lock nut is sleeved onto the inner housing and includes a first pin and a second pin formed on an inner surface. The first pin is movable in the grooved control link and the second pin is movable in the control slot. When the second pin is in the control slot, a movement of the lock nut causes the coupling nut to rotate. When the first pin moves in the grooved control link in the longitudinal direction, the lock nut contacts the cam to make the cam rotate. The rotating cam applies a force perpendicular to the longitudinal direction to the tab to rotate the coupling nut.