Lever Actuated Latch Arm for Fiber Optic Connector
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fiber optic connectors have a large footprint due to the positioning of the pivot point on the outer housing, which limits space utilization in data centers and complicates easy removal without breaking the optical fibers.
Innovation Solution
A latch lever release mechanism with a pivot point positioned between the main body and the outer housing, allowing the hook to be rotated out of the connector body when depressed, enabling the connector to be removed by pulling it rearward, reducing the overall size and facilitating easy disengagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the pivot point is positioned on the outer housing of the connector, then the connector provides sufficient structural support for the latch mechanism, but the overall footprint of the connector increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pivot point is repositioned from the outer housing surface to an internal location between the main body and outer housing. This dimensional relocation allows the latch mechanism to operate within the existing connector envelope, reducing the external footprint while maintaining the structural support function through the housing's rigid construction.
2Ease of operation
If the pivot point is positioned on the outer housing of the connector, then the latch mechanism has sufficient leverage for operation, but the length of the connector increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pivot point relocation to an internal position between the main body and outer housing enables the latch lever to rotate within the connector's internal volume. This eliminates the need for external leverage space, reducing connector length while preserving operational ease through maintained lever arm geometry.
3Reliability
If the hook is secured within a recess in the outer housing, then the connector is firmly held in the port, but the connector size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The engagement hook and its recess are repositioned to nest within the internal space between the main body and outer housing. This nested configuration allows the retention mechanism to function within the existing connector envelope, reducing external dimensions while maintaining firm connector-to-port engagement.
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
This design reduces the width and length of the connector, increasing space efficiency in data centers and simplifying the removal process while minimizing the risk of optical fiber breakage.
Implementation Method 1
A latch lever release is releasably secured about a connector housing... A pivot point is formed as part of the housing or beneath the main body of the latch lever release. Depressing the latch lever release at a trigger portion distal of the pivot point rotates up a proximal end latch lever release.
Data Source
AI summary
A fiber optic connector deploys a latch lever release with an elastic rib. When the latch lever release is depressed down or toward the optical axis of the connector, a hook seated within a recess of the connector outer housing, the hook is lifted out of the recess thereby allowing the connector to be removed from the adapter port. A pivot point is formed between the main body of the latch lever release and the connector outer housing. Depressing the latch lever release distal of the pivot point at the trigger portion displaces the hook from the connector thereby allowing the user to remove the connector from a receptacle port, such as an adapter port.