Fibre Optic Connector Latch Mechanism for Reliable Disengagement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional LC fibre optic connectors fail under applied loads due to locking mechanisms that prevent easy disengagement, leading to fibre pull-out or latch deformation, necessitating replacement.
Innovation Solution
A fibre optic connector with a latch mechanism featuring resiliently deformable latch members that allow removal without user actuation, designed to reduce failure risk by deforming under longitudinal forces, with an obtuse angle between trailing and leading surfaces facilitating disengagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a latch mechanism is used to lock the connector in place, then connection stability is improved, but the connector becomes unable to easily disengage under applied loads, leading to failure or deformation
Solution Approach 1:
The latch member is designed to be resiliently deformable, allowing it to dynamically adjust its state. Under normal conditions, it maintains a locked position for stable connection. Under excessive load, it deforms to allow disengagement, preventing connector failure. This dynamic behavior resolves the contradiction between stability and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch mechanism changes its mechanical properties based on applied force. The resiliently deformable latch member transitions from a rigid locked state to a deformable state when subjected to loads exceeding a threshold, enabling automatic disengagement and preventing catastrophic failure.
2Strength
If the latch is designed to lock firmly, then connection strength is improved, but the connector requires user actuation for removal and cannot automatically disengage under force
Solution Approach 1:
The connector performs the removal operation automatically through its own resilient latch mechanism. When excessive force is applied, the latch deforms and releases without requiring external user intervention, enabling self-service disengagement while maintaining strong locked connection during normal use.
3Reliability
If the connector is locked in place, then connection reliability is improved, but accidental loads cause fibre pull-out or latch deformation requiring replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The resiliently deformable latch member converts the harmful effect of accidental loads into a beneficial automatic disengagement mechanism. Instead of causing catastrophic failure, the excess force deforms the latch to release the connector, protecting the fibre and connector from damage.
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 solution reduces the risk of connector failure and deformation by allowing disengagement from fibre optic adaptors under accidental or deliberate forces, ensuring reliable removal without user intervention and minimizing damage.
Implementation Method 1
a latch mechanism provided on the body, the latch mechanism comprising at least one resiliently deformable latch member
Data Source
AI summary
There is described a fibre optic connector for insertion to a fibre optic adaptor, the fibre optic connector comprising a body portion and a latch mechanism provided on the body. The latch mechanism comprises at least one resiliently deformable latch member and the resiliently deformable latch member comprises at least one engagement element. The at least one engagement element comprises a leading surface and a trailing surface, wherein the angle between said trailing surface and said at least one resiliently deformable latch member is obtuse.