Light Pipe Assembly for Connector Status Visibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
In densely packed electrical connector systems, especially in telecommunications and computer networking, the compact size and close proximity of connectors make it difficult for technicians to view status indicator lights due to space constraints and obstruction by plug connectors and cabling, necessitating an efficient status indication solution.
Innovation Solution
A connector assembly incorporating a light pipe assembly that directs indicator light from the receptacle connector through the plug connector, allowing the status to be viewed from the rear of the plug connector, thus overcoming visibility issues and space limitations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If connectors are positioned in multiple rows in tightly spaced areas to increase density, then the quantity of connectors per unit area increases, but the visibility of status indicator lights deteriorates due to space constraints and obstruction by plug connectors and cabling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent relocates the status indicator light from the traditional front-facing position on the receptacle connector to the rear of the plug connector by utilizing a light pipe that channels light through the plug connector body. This dimensional relocation allows technicians to view status indicators from the rear of the plug connector, eliminating the visibility obstruction problem caused by densely packed connectors and cabling while maintaining high connector density in front-facing positions.
2Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If the light source is positioned proximate an external wall of the device housing the receptacle connector for easy viewing, then the visibility of status indicator lights is improved, but the space available for connector placement is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent moves the status indicator light to the rear of the plug connector, utilizing the depth dimension of the connector assembly rather than consuming surface area on the device front panel. This allows the light source to be positioned within the connector body itself, channeling light through the plug connector to the rear, thereby preserving valuable front panel space for additional connector placements while maintaining excellent visibility of status indicators.
3Productivity
If plug connectors and cabling are positioned in front of the light source, then the connector assembly maintains compact size and dense packaging, but the line of sight of the technician to the light source is blocked
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the traditional light viewing arrangement by placing the status indicator at the rear of the plug connector rather than at the front. This inversion allows technicians to view status indicators from behind the plug connector, completely eliminating the line-of-sight obstruction caused by plug connectors and cabling positioned in front of the light source, while maintaining the compact and dense packaging of the connector system.
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 light pipe assembly effectively provides clear status indication without obstructing the view, enabling easier monitoring of connector status even in densely packed configurations, enhancing operational efficiency and reducing the need for additional indicator space on the receptacle connector.
Implementation Method 1
a light pipe assembly (36) that directs indicator light from the receptacle connector (10) through the plug connector (12)
Data Source
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AI summary
A connector assembly comprises a first connector (10), a second connector (12), and a light pipe assembly (36). The first connector (10) includes a housing (14) and a plurality of contacts defining a mating interface. The first connector (10) includes a light source (82). The second connector (12) includes a housing (136) and a plurality of contacts defining a mating interface configured to mate with the mating interface of the first connector (10). The light pipe assembly (36) comprises a plurality of separate light pipe segments (84, 160, 186). A first light pipe segment (84) is provided with the first connector (10) and directs light from the light source (82). A second light pipe segment (160, 186) is provided with the second connector (12) and receives light from the first light pipe segment (84) and directs the light to an external portion of the second connector (12).