Exchangeable Optic Fiber Connector Assembly with Guiding Slots
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optic fiber connector assemblies do not allow for the rearrangement of plugs without disconnecting or separating them from the corresponding optic fibers, limiting flexibility in multi-channel communication setups.
Innovation Solution
An exchangeable optic fiber connector assembly featuring a pair of connectors with first locking and stopping portions, and a switching structure with guiding slots, second locking and stopping portions, and a locking member, enabling the connectors to move and rotate along guiding slots for position adjustment without disassembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If optic fiber connectors are fixed in position, then connection stability is improved, but flexibility in rearranging plugs deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly incorporates a switching structure with guiding slots that allow connectors to dynamically change positions along defined trajectories. The connectors can be moved from initial positions to swapped positions through the guiding slots while maintaining locked connections, enabling flexible rearrangement without compromising connection stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector assembly is divided into separable components including multiple connectors, a switching structure with guiding slots, and locking mechanisms. This segmentation allows individual connectors to be independently repositioned along the guiding slots while other connectors remain stationary, providing flexible rearrangement capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If optic fiber connectors are disconnected and reconnected, then position exchange is achieved, but operational complexity and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple locking portions and stopping portions are integrated into a unified switching structure that combines positioning, guiding, and locking functions. The first locking portion on each connector engages with corresponding locking portions in the switching structure, allowing all connectors to be repositioned through a single integrated mechanism rather than separate disconnection and reconnection operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The switching structure with guiding slots serves as an intermediary mechanism between the connectors. It provides a defined path and locking mechanism that facilitates smooth position exchange, eliminating the need for complete disconnection and reconnection while maintaining connection integrity throughout the swapping process.
3Manufacturing precision
If multiple locking mechanisms are added, then connector positioning accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking portions and stopping portions in the switching structure serve multiple functions simultaneously. The locking portions provide both positioning accuracy and connection security, while the stopping portions prevent over-travel and guide the swapping motion. This multi-functionality achieves precise positioning without proportionally increasing structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The first locking portion and first stopping portion on each connector are positioned asymmetrically relative to the connector body. This asymmetric arrangement allows the locking and stopping functions to be distinctly separated in space, enabling clear engagement paths through the guiding slots while maintaining a compact overall structure.
Data Source
AI summary
An exchangeable optic fiber connector assembly, including a pair of optic fiber connectors and a switching structure, is provided. Each optic fiber connector has a first locking portion and a first stopping portion. The switching structure has a pair of guiding slots. The optic fiber connectors respectively pass through the guiding slots to be movable and rotatable along the corresponding guiding slots. The switching structure further has a plurality of second locking portions and a plurality of second stopping portions disposed at two opposite ends of each guiding slot. Each optic fiber connector is locked with one of the second locking portions through the first locking portion, and the second stopping portion next to the locked second locking portion is located on a moving path of the first stopping portion.