Optical Connector Latch Mechanism for Secure Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional optical connectors lack a secure mechanism to prevent accidental disconnection due to external forces, which can lead to instability and reliability issues in high-bandwidth optical communication systems like 400G optical module communications.
Innovation Solution
An optical connector with a latch structure that can be positioned to either lock or unlock the connector within an optical receptacle, ensuring secure coupling and preventing accidental disconnection by sliding to different positions, allowing for stable connection and easy removal when needed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the optical connector uses a conventional coupling mechanism without a latch structure, then the connector can be easily inserted and removed, but the connector cannot be securely fixed and may be accidentally pulled out by external forces
Solution Approach 1:
The latch structure is designed to be movable between a locked position (engaging with the receptacle) and an unlocked position (disengaged from the receptacle). This dynamic mechanism allows the connector to transition between securely fixed and easily removable states, resolving the contradiction between connection stability and ease of removal.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch structure automatically engages with the receptacle upon insertion, providing self-locking functionality. The elastic element generates automatic locking force without requiring additional components or complex mechanisms, achieving secure fixation while maintaining operational simplicity.
2Reliability
If the optical connector uses a latch structure that locks firmly, then the connector prevents accidental disconnection, but the connector becomes difficult to remove when needed
Solution Approach 1:
The latch structure is divided into independent functional components: the latch body, the elastic element, and the engagement protrusion. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while keeping the overall mechanism simple and manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic element acts as an intermediary that provides the locking force between the latch structure and the receptacle. It mediates the interaction by automatically generating the necessary force to maintain engagement, simplifying the overall locking mechanism while ensuring reliable connection.
3Device complexity
If the optical connector uses a simple coupling mechanism, then the device structure remains simple, but the connector lacks protection against external forces and accidental disconnection
Solution Approach 1:
The latch structure proactively counteracts external forces that may cause disconnection. By engaging the latch with the receptacle before any external force is applied, the system prevents harmful effects in advance, ensuring the connector remains secure against accidental pulls or vibrations.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic element provides a cushioning effect by absorbing and distributing external forces applied to the connector. This beforehand cushioning protects the rigid coupling structures from sudden impacts or excessive forces that could cause damage or disconnection.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides an optical connector coupled to an optical receptacle, wherein the optical connector comprises an outer housing, a coupling module, and a latch structure. The coupling module is disposed in the outer housing for slidably connecting to the outer housing. When the latch structure is operated at a first position, the optical connector is unable to be taken away from the optical receptacle, and when the latch structure is operated at a second position, the outer housing is allowed to slide relative to the coupling module whereby the optical connector is taken away from the optical receptacle. In another embodiment, the present invention further provides an optical module and an operation method in which a movement for changing the position of the latch structure is operated to lock the optical connector into the optical receptacle or take the optical connector away from the optical receptacle.