Modularized Insert Assembly for Backplane Connector Blind Mating
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing backplane connectors face challenges in blind-assembly installations due to alignment difficulties of ferrule assemblies and retainers, and the need for a floating insert housing that is adequately supported within tight space constraints, which can lead to damage and increased manufacturing costs.
Innovation Solution
A modularized insert assembly that can be pre-assembled outside the system enclosure, comprising a shell housing, an insert housing with ferrule openings, and retainers, allowing for easy alignment and secure installation, along with a floatable mount within the shell housing to facilitate blind mating and reduce the risk of damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the insert housing is made to float within the connector shell to enhance blind-mating capability, then the connector's adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases due to the need for precise clearance and support mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into separate functional components: a fixed connector shell and a floating insert housing sub-assembly. The insert housing can move independently within the shell to accommodate misalignment during blind-mating, while the shell remains fixed to the backplane. This segmentation allows the floating mechanism to enhance adaptability without requiring the entire connector assembly to be complex.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the rectangular cutout in the backplane is made tightly-toleranced to provide both clearance for floating and support to prevent backward movement, then the structural stability is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
A retainer component is introduced as an intermediary element between the insert housing and the backplane cutout. The retainer provides the necessary support to prevent backward axial movement of the floating insert housing, while the backplane cutout itself can have more relaxed tolerances. This mediator transfers the support function from the backplane structure to a dedicated component, reducing manufacturing precision requirements for the cutout.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the insert housing is given excessive clearance to ensure float capability, then the adaptability is improved, but the reliability decreases due to risk of binding or dislodgement
Solution Approach 1:
The insert housing is designed with dynamic float capability within controlled limits. The housing can move laterally and rotate slightly within the connector shell to accommodate misalignment during blind-mating. However, the retainer component provides mechanical constraints that prevent excessive movement, binding, or dislodgement. This dynamic design with controlled degrees of freedom achieves both adaptability and reliability.
4Ease of operation
If the MT ferrule assembly is pushed by its cable through the insert housing cavity using the flexible fiber optic cable assembly, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability decreases due to risk of damaging the ferrule mating face
Solution Approach 1:
A dedicated alignment and insertion tool is introduced as an intermediary device to push the MT ferrule assembly through the insert housing cavity. This tool provides controlled, aligned force application that prevents lateral misalignment and damage to the ferrule mating face. The flexible fiber optic cable assembly alone is insufficient for reliable insertion, so the intermediary tool ensures proper alignment and force application throughout the insertion process.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector for attachment to a planar surface, said connector comprising a shell housing configured for attachment to said planar surface, an insert housing connected to said shell and defining two or more insert ferrule openings, at least one retainer attached to said insert housing and defining two or more retainer ferrule openings aligned with said insert ferrule openings, and two or more ferrule assemblies disposed within said two or more insert ferrule openings.