Fiber Optic Connector Locking Mechanism for Rod Replacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fiber optic connectors require manual removal of central rods using tools like pliers, which can damage components and is inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A fiber optic connector design featuring a housing member, positioning member with installation holes and guiding grooves, and a locking member that moves between locking and open positions to restrict or allow movement of central rods, facilitating easy replacement without damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If central rods are press-fitted into the connecting member, then the central rods are securely fixed, but removal requires tools like pliers which can damage components
Solution Approach 1:
The connection between the locking member and central rods is segmented into two states: locked position where guiding portions engage annular grooves to secure the rods, and unlocked position where they disengage to allow removal. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by providing both secure fixation and easy removal through a single integrated mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking member is designed to be movable relative to the positioning member, transitioning between locked and unlocked positions. This dynamic design allows the system to switch between strong fixation (when locked) and easy removal (when unlocked), resolving the contradiction between fixing strength and ease of removal.
2Ease of repair
If manual tools are used to remove central rods, then removal is possible, but operational errors and component damage increase
Solution Approach 1:
The locking member enables the central rods to be removed without external tools by simply moving the locking member to the unlocked position. The guiding portions disengage from the annular grooves, allowing the rods to be pulled out freely. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for pliers or other tools, preventing damage and reducing operational errors.
3Stability of the object's composition
If central rods are securely fixed in the connecting member, then connection stability is improved, but replacement efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking member provides a dynamic switching mechanism between stable connection (locked position) and easy replacement (unlocked position). When locked, the guiding portions secure the central rods for stable operation. When unlocked, they allow rapid removal and replacement, thus resolving the contradiction between connection stability and replacement efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking member is pre-positioned in the locked state during normal operation to ensure connection stability. When replacement is needed, the user simply moves the locking member to unlock, and the central rods can be quickly removed. This preliminary locking mechanism ensures both stability during use and efficiency during replacement.
Data Source
AI summary
A fiber optic connector includes a positioning member formed with two installation holes and two guiding grooves, two central rods and a locking member. The locking member has two guiding portions and is operable to move relative to the positioning member between a locking position, where each of the guiding portions extends into an intersection of the corresponding guiding groove and the corresponding installation hole to engage an annular groove of the corresponding central rod for restricting movement of the central rods along the installation holes, and an open position, where the guiding portions are disengaged from the annular grooves, thereby allowing the central rods to move along the installation holes.