Sliding-Lock Fiber Connector Plugs for Dense Port Arrangements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fiber connector plugs occupy significant space and hinder the arrangement of multiple ports in limited spaces, necessitating improved locking structures for efficient fiber connection in communications devices.
Innovation Solution
A fiber connector plug design featuring a sliding member with a locking structure that allows direct insertion and removal, minimizing operational space and enabling dense port arrangement, combined with a sealing structure for miniaturization and enhanced locking mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional locking structure is used for fiber connector plugs, then reliable locking is achieved, but operation space is increased and port density is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The locking structure transitions from a static design to a dynamic one, where the locking component can move between locked and unlocked positions. The elastic arm bends and deflects during insertion to engage with the blocking part, providing automatic locking without requiring additional operation space. This dynamic mechanism resolves the contradiction by enabling reliable locking through motion rather than fixed structural elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism operates autonomously through the interaction between the elastic arm and blocking part. During insertion, the elastic arm automatically bends and engages with the blocking part to lock the connector in place without requiring manual intervention or additional space for operation. The structure self-locks through its own elastic deformation, eliminating the need for separate locking components that would occupy additional space.
2Quantity of substance
If more fiber connection ports are arranged in limited space, then port density is improved, but operation space for each connector is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism utilizes elastic deformation in the radial direction rather than requiring additional axial or circumferential space. The elastic arm bends perpendicular to the insertion direction, engaging with the blocking part through a different dimensional approach. This allows the connector to lock in place without requiring extra operation space around the connector body, enabling denser port arrangement.
Solution Approach 2:
The design changes the locking parameter from spatial occupation to elastic deformation. Instead of using a locking structure that occupies physical space, the invention uses the elastic properties of the arm to achieve locking through deformation. This parameter change allows the connector to maintain compact dimensions while providing reliable locking, facilitating higher port density in limited spaces.
3Area of stationary object
If a sliding member locking structure is implemented, then operation space is reduced, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking function is merged with the connector body itself rather than being a separate component. The elastic arm is integrated into the connector housing, and the blocking part is formed as part of the ferrule assembly. This merging reduces the number of separate parts and simplifies manufacturing, while still achieving compact locking without additional operation space.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic arm serves multiple functions: it provides locking engagement with the blocking part, guides the insertion motion, and ensures proper positioning of the ferrule. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate locking components, simplifying the overall structure and manufacturing process while maintaining the compact design that reduces operation space.
Data Source
AI summary
A fiber connector plug includes a main housing sleeved over a periphery of a fiber and a first locking structure disposed on an outer surface of the main housing, where the first locking structure is used to fit a second locking structure on a fiber adapter, the first locking structure includes a sliding member and a locking part, the locking part is fastened to the main housing, and the sliding member is slidably connected between a first position and a second position to the main housing; the locking part is located between the sliding member and a ferrule; and when the sliding member is located in the first position, the sliding member fits the locking part to jointly lock the second locking structure.