Fiber Optical Connector Handle Mechanism for Limited Space
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fiber optical connectors lack a convenient mechanism for detaching and replacing jumper wires, leading to potential damage and limited space constraints, making it difficult for operators to efficiently manage the connectors.
Innovation Solution
A fiber optical connector design featuring a connector housing with an elastic arm, a slidable block, and a handle, where the handle allows for easy operation to move the slidable block, increasing the mating force between the connector and adapter, and distributing force to prevent deformation, facilitating assembly and disassembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the operator presses on the elastic arm of the male optical-fiber connector to detach it from the adapter, then the connector can be removed, but the operator cannot do this conveniently due to limited space in the cabinet
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into separate functional components: the connector housing with elastic arm for attachment, and a handle mechanism for operation. This segmentation allows the operational interface (handle) to be extended outward, making it accessible in limited cabinet spaces while keeping the attachment mechanism compact.
Solution Approach 2:
A handle mechanism is introduced as an intermediary between the operator and the elastic arm. The handle transmits force to the elastic arm through the slidable block, allowing the operator to detach the connector without directly pressing on the elastic arm, thus solving the accessibility problem in limited cabinet spaces.
2Quantity of substance
If the number of jumper wires is increased, then more connections can be made, but the limited space in the cabinet prevents accommodating more wires
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic arm provides a dynamic attachment mechanism that can accommodate multiple connectors in a compact arrangement. The resilient nature of the elastic arm allows for flexible positioning and secure attachment of multiple jumper wires within limited cabinet space, enabling increased quantity without proportionally increasing space requirements.
3Ease of operation
If the operator directly pulls the jumper wires, then the wires can be replaced, but the wires may be damaged or other wires may be damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The handle mechanism serves as an intermediary that applies controlled force through the slidable block to the elastic arm, rather than directly pulling on the jumper wires. This indirect force transmission protects the wires from damage while enabling easy replacement of connectors.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector design separates the attachment function (elastic arm with engaging protrusions) from the wire function (jumper wires). This segmentation allows the connector housing to be detached and replaced without applying stress to the wires themselves, protecting wire integrity while enabling easy replacement.
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
The design enables convenient and secure detachment and assembly of fiber optical connectors, preventing damage and increasing the number of jumper wires that can be managed within a given space, enhancing operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The elastic arm is outwardly and inclinedly extending out of the connector housing. Two sides of the elastic arm respectively comprise a pair of engaging protrusions
Implementation Method 2
each of the slidable grooves comprises a front inclined surface, a rear inclined surface, and a recessed portion connected to a top portion of the front inclined surface and a top portion of the rear inclined surface
Data Source
AI summary
A fiber optical connector includes a connector housing, a slidable block, and a handle. The connector housing includes an elastic arm outwardly and inclinedly extending out of the connector housing. Two sides of the elastic arm respectively include engaging protrusions and protruding blocks. The slidable block is fitted out of the connector housing. The slidable block includes sidewalls and slidable grooves formed on side surfaces of the sidewalls. The protruding blocks are respectively engaged in the slidable grooves, and one side of each of the sidewalls includes a buckling groove. An extension block is extending from a first end of the handle and the extension block is received between the sidewalls. The handle includes buckling blocks located out of the extension block, and the buckling blocks are respectively engaged in the buckling grooves.