Duplex LC Connector Clip Assembly with Axial Latch Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fiber optic connector assemblies do not efficiently maintain paired connectivity and polarity while allowing easy removal without accessing the connector housings, especially in high-density equipment environments.
Innovation Solution
A duplex clip assembly with a clip body and boot design that allows axial movement relative to the connectors, featuring a hood to engage camming surfaces on the latches for easy disengagement, and optional manual release levers for tool-free connector removal and polarity reversal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the connector latches are directly accessible for removal, then the connector can be removed, but it requires reaching into the connector housing which is difficult in high-density environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a clip assembly as an intermediary mechanism between the user and the connector latch. The clip includes a hood that engages with the latch camming surface, allowing the user to actuate the latch without directly accessing the connector housing. This intermediary lever arm transfers the user's pulling force on the hood into the appropriate mechanical action on the latch, solving the accessibility problem in high-density environments.
2Strength
If the clip is tightly retained to the connector, then the connector is securely held, but it requires excessive force to remove the connector
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic engagement between the clip hood and the latch camming surface. During insertion, the hood is pushed forward to engage the camming surface, creating a mechanical lock that provides strong retention. During removal, the user pulls the hood backward, which disengages the camming surface interaction and allows the latch to release. This dynamic engagement mechanism provides strong holding force during normal operation while enabling easy removal when needed.
3Ease of manufacture
If the clip structure is simplified for easy manufacturing, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but it may lack the precision needed for proper latch engagement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the connector assembly into distinct functional segments: the connector housing, the latch mechanism, and the clip assembly. Each segment can be manufactured independently with appropriate precision requirements. The clip assembly itself is segmented into the hood, the body, and the retention tabs. This segmentation allows each part to be optimized for its specific function, with the hood and camming surface engagement areas manufactured to the necessary precision while other areas can be simpler.
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
Facilitates easy insertion and removal of LC fiber optic connectors while maintaining polarity, allowing tool-free operation and flexibility in high-density environments.
Implementation Method 1
The hood is configured to engage a camming surface on the LC connector latches when the clip body is moved axially rearward relative to the LC connector
Data Source
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AI summary
This application describes several embodiments of a duplex clip assembly for use in aiding the insertion and removal of a pair of LC fiber optic connectors. In one embodiment, the assembly includes a clip body with a hood. The clip body has a central wall, upper tabs and lower tabs configured to loosely retain a pair of LC connectors such as to allow the clip body to move axially relative to the LC connectors. The hood is configured to engage a camming surface on the LC connector latches when the clip body is moved axially rearward relative to the LC connector. In a second embodiment, the assembly includes a duplex housing and a housing cover. The duplex housing retains the LC connectors such as to allow them to rotate. The housing cover has a hood protruding from the top configured to engage a camming surface on the LC connector latches.