Modular Connector Guard Cover with Access Aperture for Secure Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular connectors with security devices are overly complex and time-consuming to remove, compromising their security when repeatedly connected and disconnected.
Innovation Solution
A modular connector design featuring a resilient leg with a guard cover that prevents manual depression, allowing access only through a restricted aperture aligned with the resilient leg's axis, enabling secure locking without additional tools and simplifying the manufacturing process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a security device is fitted to the connector plug to prevent depression of the latch, then security is improved, but device complexity increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The guard cover is integrated within the connector plug structure, with the resilient leg nested between the guard cover and the housing. The access aperture is formed through the guard cover itself, creating a nested arrangement where the security mechanism is contained within the existing connector geometry rather than adding external components.
Solution Approach 2:
The guard cover combines multiple functions into a single component: it provides security by preventing lateral access to the resilient leg, defines an access aperture for tool-based release, and integrates with the connector plug housing. This merging eliminates the need for separate security devices while maintaining both security and ease of authorized removal.
2Reliability
If a security device with key-based locking mechanism is used, then security is improved, but removal time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the key-based locking mechanism and replaces it with a simpler resilient leg depression system. The guard cover prevents unauthorized access but allows the resilient leg to be depressed through the access aperture using a simple tool, eliminating the need for keys and significantly reducing removal time while maintaining security.
Solution Approach 2:
The resilient leg automatically engages with the socket's resilient arm to provide security, and the same resilient leg can be easily released by depressing it through the access aperture. The system serves both security and release functions through its own components without requiring external key-based mechanisms.
3Loss of time
If the security device can be entirely removed to save time, then removal time is reduced, but security is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The guard cover is designed to remain in place during normal operation, providing continuous security by preventing lateral access to the resilient leg. During authorized removal, a tool is inserted through the access aperture to depress the resilient leg, which dynamically changes the guard cover's function from blocking access to allowing controlled access through the aperture.
Solution Approach 2:
The guard cover provides security by blocking lateral access to the resilient leg, but the access aperture provides a localized exception that allows tool-based depression. This local quality differentiation enables the guard cover to maintain security while permitting authorized removal through a specific, controlled access point.
4Reliability
If a guard cover with access aperture is used to prevent manual depression, then security is maintained, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The guard cover is molded as an integral part of the connector plug housing in a single manufacturing process. The access aperture is formed directly during the molding operation, eliminating the need for separate machining or assembly steps. This merging of the guard cover with the housing structure maintains manufacturing simplicity while providing security functionality.
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 provides a robust and secure mechanism for preventing unauthorized removal of the modular connector, while allowing for easy tool-assisted release, reducing complexity and enhancing security compared to existing methods.
Implementation Method 1
a resilient leg, depending at a first end thereof from the connector plug, and having a depressible part, distal therefrom, depressible towards the connector plug
Data Source
AI summary
A modular connector is provided having a connector plug, which may be inserted into an associated socket in a first longitudinal direction, a resilient leg, depending at a first end thereof from the connector plug, and having a depressible part, distal therefrom, depressible towards the connector plug, and a guard cover, configured to prevent access to the depressible part of the resilient leg in its direction of depression, but to permit access to the resilient leg in the longitudinal direction through an access aperture, the access aperture being aligned with the depressible part of the resilient leg on an axis parallel with the longitudinal direction, to allow depression of the resilient leg through the access aperture directly. Corresponding extraction tool and methods, loopback connector, blanking plug, keyed protrusions and notches, security gasket, and blanking plate and patch panel also are disclosed.