Fiber Optic Adapter Mounting Bracket Interlock System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fiber optic connector systems lack a secure and efficient method for mounting fiber optic adapters in fiber optic networks, particularly in expanding optical fiber installations from central offices to subscriber locations, where reliable interconnection and easy maintenance are crucial.
Innovation Solution
A fiber optic adapter system featuring a mounting bracket with interlock features and a retainer member, allowing the adapter to be securely inserted and locked into the bracket, providing a robust and easy-to-install solution for fiber optic adapter mounting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional mounting methods are used for fiber optic adapters, then installation is simple, but the adapter lacks secure fixation and may be displaced
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting bracket is divided into distinct functional segments: a base for mounting, side walls forming a channel, and interlock features. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function while maintaining overall simplicity. The adapter housing is also segmented with separate interlock features that engage with the bracket, enabling secure fixation through modular engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter housing is inserted into the channel formed by the side walls of the mounting bracket, creating a nested configuration. The interlock features are nested within recesses and protrusions that engage together, providing secure fixation while maintaining a compact integrated structure. This nesting approach ensures the adapter is firmly held within the bracket.
2Reliability
If secure interlock features are added to prevent adapter displacement, then mounting reliability improves, but installation and maintenance difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of requiring active engagement mechanisms to secure the adapter, the design uses passive interlock features where the adapter housing automatically engages with the mounting bracket upon insertion. The interlock features are configured so that the adapter's own insertion motion activates the locking engagement, eliminating the need for separate fastening operations and maintaining ease of installation.
3Reliability
If a robust mounting system with interlock features is implemented, then adapter security improves, but the number of components and assembly steps increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting bracket integrates multiple functions into a single component: it provides structural support through its base, forms a guiding channel with its side walls, and provides fixation through interlock features. The adapter housing similarly combines the connector body with integrated interlock features. This merging reduces the total number of separate components while maintaining secure fixation functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting bracket is designed as a multi-functional component that can accommodate different adapter types through its universal channel and interlock feature configuration. The base portion provides mounting surfaces that can secure the bracket to various substrates, while the channel and interlock features provide universal engagement with adapters, reducing the need for specialized mounting hardware for different connector types.
Data Source
AI summary
A fiber optic adapter system includes a fiber optic adapter and a mounting bracket. The fiber optic adapter includes a first interlock feature. The mounting bracket defines a channel having a longitudinal channel axis and a longitudinally extending lateral side opening. The mounting bracket includes a second interlock feature. The fiber optic adapter and the mounting bracket are relatively configured to enable a user to interlock the first and second interlock features to secure the fiber optic adapter to the mounting bracket by inserting the fiber optic adapter into the channel through the lateral side opening in an insertion direction transverse to the channel axis.