Optical Fiber Connector Clip for Damage-Free Adapter Release
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional connectors are prone to accidental withdrawal from adapters due to pulling forces, leading to potential damage to the cable, connector, and adapter.
Innovation Solution
A quick release mechanism in the form of a clip is installed on the adapter, which allows the connector to be released without user manipulation, utilizing a transitioning surface to reduce the force required for detachment, thereby preventing damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a retaining feature is added to prevent accidental withdrawal, then connector stability is improved, but the force required for removal increases to a level that may cause damage
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining feature transitions from a static high-force retention mechanism to a dynamic system where the lever can shift positions. The lever moves from a first position (engaging the retention feature) to a second position (disengaged), allowing the system to adapt its retention characteristics based on operational conditions and enabling damage-free removal when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The clip acts as an intermediary component between the connector and the adapter. It introduces a new element that mediates the interaction by providing a transitioning surface that guides the lever through its position change, thereby controlling the force distribution and enabling smooth transition from retained to removed state without damage.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a retaining feature is added to prevent accidental withdrawal, then connector stability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The clip serves multiple functions: it engages with the adapter to provide stable retention during normal operation, and simultaneously provides a transitioning surface that guides the lever disengagement. This multi-functionality adds stability without proportionally increasing complexity, as one component accomplishes both retention and controlled release.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service operation where the connector can be removed without requiring user manipulation of the connector itself. The pulling force on the cable automatically triggers the lever position change through the transitioning surface, allowing the system to service itself by converting the removal action into the necessary disengagement sequence.
3Ease of operation
If the lever is made resilient perpendicular to withdrawal direction, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The lever's mechanical properties are changed by introducing resilience in the perpendicular direction. This parameter change allows the lever to flex and facilitate position transition during removal, improving ease of operation. The resilient property enables the lever to adapt to slight misalignments and provides a more user-friendly removal experience.
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 clip enables safe detachment of the connector from the adapter at lower forces than those that would cause damage, protecting the connector and adapter from accidental pulling.
Implementation Method 1
The transitioning surface may be structurally configured to move the withdrawal resisting portion of the cable connector out of engagement with the protrusion as the withdrawal resisting portion moves in a withdrawal direction relative to the body portion
Data Source
AI summary
A retention portion configured to enable release of a cable connector from an adapter without manipulation of the retention portion or the connector by a user, includes: a first portion; and a second portion extending from the first portion. The first portion may comprise an adapter engaging portion that may engage a receiving portion of an adapter; the second portion may move a withdrawal resisting portion of a connector out of engagement with the second portion as the withdrawal resisting portion moves in a withdrawal direction relative to the first portion; and the second portion may be configured to permit the connector to be released from the adapter without manipulation of the connector by a user so as to prevent damage to the connector from the connector being pulled out of the adapter in the withdrawal direction by a force exerted on a cable connected to the connector.