Optical Connector Locking Mechanism for Automotive Light Guides
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing bayonet connection systems for light guides in the automotive field are prone to breakage due to torsional stresses during assembly and disassembly, and they are not suitable for frequent use, as they require complex systems or tools, and can cause size issues due to the volume swept in rotation.
Innovation Solution
A removable connection device with an articulated locking element that can rotate more than 45°, allowing for manual control and locking of the light guide without friction or hard contact, featuring a hinge connection to the receptacle and a locking mechanism that moves between two positions to facilitate easy assembly and disassembly, reducing torsional stress and allowing for multiple cycles without damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a bayonet connection system is used for mounting and dismounting the light guide, then the connection can be made without tools, but torsional stresses are applied to the light guide causing a high risk of breakage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional bayonet mechanical connection system with a push-button locking mechanism. The locking element engages with the connection end piece through axial movement rather than rotational torsion, eliminating the harmful twisting forces that cause light guide breakage while maintaining tool-free operation through the push-button actuation system.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the connection parameter from rotational torque (bayonet) to axial force (push-button). The locking element moves along the axial direction to engage and disengage the connection, fundamentally altering the mechanical action from twisting to linear pushing, thereby preventing torsional stress on the light guide.
2Volume of moving object
If the light guide is made narrow to meet miniaturization requirements, then the size is reduced, but the light guide becomes more susceptible to breakage during mounting and dismounting
Solution Approach 1:
The push-button locking mechanism replaces the bayonet system that imposed torsional loads on the narrow light guide. By using axial engagement forces instead of rotational twisting, the connection system can securely fasten miniaturized light guides without exceeding their reduced structural strength limits.
3Device complexity
If the bayonet connection requires rotation to lock, then the locking mechanism is simple, but it generates a large space requirement due to the volume swept in rotation
Solution Approach 1:
The invention transitions the locking action from the rotational plane (bayonet) to the axial dimension (push-button). The locking element moves along the length of the connector rather than rotating around it, significantly reducing the radial space envelope while maintaining the simplicity of the locking concept through linear engagement.
4Adaptability or versatility
If frequent mounting and dismounting is performed to replace light sources, then maintenance flexibility is improved, but the light guide breaks due to repeated torsional stresses
Solution Approach 1:
The push-button locking system replaces the bayonet connection, enabling frequent maintenance operations without the cumulative damage from repeated torsional cycling. The axial engagement mechanism imposes minimal stress on the light guide during each connection cycle, allowing numerous assembly-disassembly cycles while preserving light guide integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The push-button mechanism enables the operator to perform maintenance without requiring special tools or complex procedures. The self-contained locking and unlocking action through simple button pressure makes frequent replacement operations practical and user-friendly while protecting the light guide from damage.
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 enables robust and reliable optical transmission modules that can be assembled and disassembled multiple times without breaking, reducing the risk of damage to the light guide or receptacle, and allows for weight reduction by eliminating metal parts, facilitating easier maintenance and replacement of light sources.
Implementation Method 1
the locking element is articulated around an axis defined by a connecting hinge between the locking element and the receptacle
Implementation Method 2
the locking element is adapted to come into abutment on the receptacle in said first position
Data Source
Figure 1~2A
Figure 2B
Figure 2C~2D
AI summary
The removable connection device (1) for a light guide comprises a housing portion (100) of a receptacle (10) defining a cavity (C10) for a light source (2) and a locking element (3) hinged to the housing portion to allow the connection to be locked in a folded final position after the guide has been mounted in a less folded mounting position of the element (3). The receptacle has a connection portion (4) that defines a recess (L) communicating with the cavity (C10) and accessible through an opposite opening (4c) to allow the guide to be received and then drawn longitudinally into the recess. A locking member (15) formed on the locking element (3) allows the guide to be inserted into the recess in the mounting position but not in the final position, in which this member (15) prevents the guide from being withdrawn from the recess (L).