Fiber Optic Connector Orientation Adjustment Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fiber optic connectors require time-consuming reassembly and risk quality deterioration when changing the orientation of the connecting unit relative to the main body unit, necessitating removal of the sleeving unit for proper alignment with adapters having different keyway configurations.
Innovation Solution
A fiber optic connector design featuring a plug-in unit with a movable switch member that allows the connecting unit to be adjusted and locked without separating from the sleeving unit, utilizing a buffering unit with lateral springs to maintain connection and facilitate orientation changes without compromising the connector's integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the sleeving unit is removed to change the orientation of the connecting unit, then the connector can be properly aligned with adapters having different keyway configurations, but the reassembly process becomes time-consuming and may deteriorate connector quality
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting unit is designed with a movable connection interface that allows dynamic reorientation relative to the plug-in unit. The connecting unit can be shifted between different orientations (e.g., 0 degrees and 90 degrees) without complete disassembly, enabling adaptation to different adapter keyway configurations while maintaining connection to the plug-in unit.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is divided into separable modules: the plug-in unit and the connecting unit. This segmentation allows the connecting unit to be independently reoriented or detached from the plug-in unit, providing flexibility in orientation adjustment without requiring removal of the sleeving unit, thereby reducing reassembly time and preserving connector quality.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the connecting unit orientation is changed frequently, then compatibility with different adapters is improved, but the quality of the optic fiber connector deteriorates due to excessive disassembly and reassembly
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting unit incorporates a dynamic reorientation mechanism that allows it to be shifted between different orientations while remaining connected to the plug-in unit. This eliminates the need for complete disassembly and reassembly, thereby maintaining connector quality and reliability while achieving compatibility with different adapter configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting unit is nested within or connected to the plug-in unit in a way that allows one to be repositioned relative to the other without complete separation. This nested arrangement enables orientation changes while maintaining the overall connector integrity, preventing quality deterioration from excessive disassembly.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the connecting unit is separably connected to the main body unit, then orientation adjustment is enabled, but the connector requires time-consuming reassembly when changing orientation
Solution Approach 1:
The connection between the plug-in unit and connecting unit is designed to be dynamically adjustable rather than requiring complete separation. The connecting unit can be quickly reoriented or detached and reconnected in a different orientation, significantly reducing the time required for orientation adjustment while maintaining adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is designed with pre-configured connection interfaces and guiding features that facilitate quick reorientation. The connecting unit includes structural elements that allow it to be preliminarily positioned or guided into the correct orientation during reassembly, reducing the time and complexity of the reassembly process.
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
Enables quick and secure orientation adjustments of the connecting unit relative to the plug-in unit without removing the sleeving unit, enhancing assembly efficiency and maintaining connector quality by preventing excessive disassembly and reassembly.
Implementation Method 1
a buffering unit with lateral springs to maintain connection and facilitate orientation changes
Data Source
AI summary
A fiber optic connector includes a plug-in unit, a connecting unit, and a sleeving unit. The plug-in unit includes a switch member that is operable to move between a locking position and an adjusting position. The connecting unit includes a surrounding body that is formed with two through grooves. When the switch member is at the adjusting position, the switch member is moved away from of the through grooves and the connecting unit is operable to be separated from the plug-in unit. When the switch member is at the locking position, the switch member is moved into one of the through grooves to prevent separation of the connecting unit from the plug-in unit.