Fiber Optic Connector Rear Release Mechanism for Dense Arrays
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Solution Overview
Problem
High-density interconnect panels in communication networks face challenges with connector size reduction and spacing optimization, leading to obstructed access and increased stress on cables, which can compromise network integrity and reliability.
Innovation Solution
A connector design featuring a push-pull tab mechanism with a groove and recess system, allowing for remote release and secure alignment within a port device, along with interchangeable anchor devices for secure engagement and easy disengagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If connector size is reduced to increase panel density, then connector density is improved, but access to release mechanisms becomes obstructed and cable stress increases
Solution Approach 1:
The release mechanism is repositioned from the front face to the rear face of the connector, utilizing the depth dimension to provide access. The rearwardly extending tab allows operators to access the release mechanism from behind the connector array, bypassing the obstruction problem caused by dense front-facing connectors.
Solution Approach 2:
A flexible latch member acts as an intermediary between the connector body and the release tab. This latch can be actuated remotely through the tab while maintaining engagement with the connector, allowing force to be applied from behind without directly manipulating components at the obstructed front interface.
2Quantity of substance
If connector size is reduced to increase panel density, then connector density is improved, but cable stress and connector damage risk increase
Solution Approach 1:
The release function is extracted from the main connector body and implemented as a separate, remotely accessible tab mechanism. This allows the connector body to remain small and densely packed while the release operation is performed through a lever arm extending to the rear, distributing mechanical stress away from the fragile front interface.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of pulling or pushing release mechanisms at the front of the connector, the design inverts the approach by providing a rearwardly extending tab that allows operators to apply release force from behind the connector, reversing the traditional access direction and eliminating the need to push aside adjacent cables.
3Quantity of substance
If spacing between connectors is reduced to increase density, then connector density is improved, but access to individual connectors becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The access path is moved from the horizontal plane (front to back through dense arrays) to the depth dimension (rearward extension of tabs). Operators can access individual connectors by reaching behind the panel rather than pushing through rows of tightly spaced front-facing connectors.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments disclosed herein are directed to a device and system of devices including: a connector comprising a housing comprising a groove lengthwise in a surface of the housing and a push-pull tab comprising a protrusion, a widthwise recess on the connector housing accepting protrusions on a removable anchor device that retains the connector in a port, wherein the push-pull tab releases the connector from the port using protrusions on the anchor device and the receiver device comprising one or more ports for receiving one or more connector types; and the receiver device comprising one or more ports without an anchor; said port secures a second connector type comprising a latch release mechanism; and the receiver device ports are opposite one another; wherein the opposite ports can accept a first connector and a second connector; wherein the first connector release mechanism and differs from the second connector release mechanism.