Optical Connector Quick-Release Latching Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical connectors face reliability issues due to screw locks, which can be unreliable under vibrations, require significant time and tools for assembly, limit connector density, cause abrasion, and compromise corrosion protection, while also failing to meet the unique requirements of optical fiber connections that demand precise coaxial alignment and durability across varying conditions.
Innovation Solution
A quick-release optical connector with an elastically expandable locking ring and unlocking sleeve that automatically latches during insertion, eliminating the need for tools and reducing assembly time, while ensuring secure and durable connections that maintain precision and resistance to environmental factors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a screw lock is used to secure the connection, then the connection can be held firmly, but the reliability is limited because the screw connection can be released if vibrations occur and mounting defects can arise
Solution Approach 1:
The locking ring automatically engages with the latching step during insertion, performing the locking function without requiring manual screwing operations. The system locks itself through the mechanical interaction between the locking ring and latching step, eliminating the need for external tools and manual threading operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the screw-threaded mechanical locking system with a simple latching mechanism where a locking ring engages with a latching step. This substitution eliminates the complex screw connection while maintaining firm holding capability and improving reliability against vibrations.
2Reliability
If a screw lock is used, then the connection can be secured, but a significant outlay in terms of time is required for assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The locking ring is pre-positioned on the connector portion, and the latching step is pre-formed on the mating connector. During insertion, the locking ring automatically engages with the latching step without requiring any additional assembly steps, tools, or manual threading operations, thereby significantly reducing assembly time.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism performs its function automatically during the insertion process without requiring manual screwing operations. The system locks itself through the mechanical interaction between the locking ring and latching step, eliminating the need for external tools and manual threading operations.
3Manufacturing precision
If a screw connection is used, then the connector can be held together, but specific tools such as torque wrenches are necessary for correct screw connection with predefined tightening torque
Solution Approach 1:
The locking ring automatically engages with the latching step during insertion, performing the locking function without requiring manual screwing operations. The system locks itself through the mechanical interaction between the locking ring and latching step, eliminating the need for external tools and manual threading operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the screw-threaded mechanical locking system with a simple latching mechanism where a locking ring engages with a latching step. This substitution eliminates the complex screw connection while maintaining firm holding capability and improving reliability against vibrations.
4Reliability
If a screw lock is used, then the connection can be secured, but the minimum distance between neighbouring connections must be large enough to provide tools with sufficient access
Solution Approach 1:
The locking ring automatically engages with the latching step during insertion, performing the locking function without requiring manual screwing operations. The system locks itself through the mechanical interaction between the locking ring and latching step, eliminating the need for external tools and manual threading operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent removes the requirement for external screwing tools by integrating the locking function directly into the connector structure. The locking ring and latching step form a self-contained mechanism that eliminates the need for separate tool access, thereby enabling closer spacing of connectors.
5Reliability
If a screw connection is used, then the connector can be held together, but the screw connection results in abrasion on the threads which can have a negative effect on the very sensitive optical connection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the screw-threaded mechanical locking system with a simple latching mechanism where a locking ring engages with a latching step. This substitution eliminates the complex screw connection while maintaining firm holding capability and improving reliability against vibrations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent removes the thread abrasion problem by eliminating the screw connection entirely. The locking ring and latching step form a friction-based retention mechanism that avoids the repetitive threading motion causing abrasion on optical components.
6Reliability
If a screw connection is used, then the connector can be held together, but a corrosion-protection coating applied to the connector can be removed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the screw-threaded mechanical locking system with a simple latching mechanism where a locking ring engages with a latching step. This substitution eliminates the complex screw connection while maintaining firm holding capability and improving reliability against vibrations.
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 reliable, rapid, and space-efficient optical connector that maintains connection quality over time, reduces assembly time by 10-fold, and minimizes stress on components, ensuring secure and durable optical connections in harsh environments.
Implementation Method 1
a locking ring (33) which is elastically expandable, is arranged concentrically with the connector axis (43). The locking ring (33) is arranged in one of the two connector portions (11, 27) in a fixed position in the axial direction and latches, for locking purposes, behind a peripheral latching step (20) on the other one of the two connector portions (11, 27) during insertion
Data Source
AI summary
An optical connector (10), in particular for outside use, for detachably connecting at least two optical cables along a connector axis (43) comprises a socket portion (11) and a plug portion (27), which portions are substantially of cylindrical design with respect to the connector axis (43), can be detachably plugged into one another along the connector axis (43) and can be locked in the plugged-in state. A locking mechanism (19, 20, 32, 33, 36, 46), which is equipped with a latch function and which latches automatically during insertion is provided for the purposes of rapid locking.