Optical Connector Shutter Linkage Mechanism for Dust Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Optical connectors with shutter mechanisms are prone to accidental opening, allowing dust entry and making cleaning difficult, which can compromise the integrity of the connection and reduce the lifespan of the connector.
Innovation Solution
The optical connector incorporates a linkage mechanism between the plug and receptacle shutter mechanisms, utilizing a movable member, an urging member, and a cam mechanism to ensure the shutter plate is locked in a closed position, preventing accidental opening and dust entry, with projections fitting into openings to secure the shutter plate in place.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If shutter mechanisms are added to protect optical contact portions, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the shutter mechanism with the connection and disconnection operations. The shutter plate is integrated into the plug and receptacle structures, and its opening/closing action is merged with the natural movement of connecting or disconnecting the optical connector. This eliminates the need for separate shutter control mechanisms while providing protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The shutter plate is designed to be dynamically controlled through spring elements and cam surfaces that automatically adjust the shutter position based on the connection state. When connected, the shutter opens to allow optical contact; when disconnected, the shutter closes to protect the optical portions. This dynamic behavior reduces the need for additional control components.
2Ease of operation
If shutter mechanisms are made accessible from outside for rotation, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to accidental opening
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a link mechanism that creates a mechanical interlock between the plug and receptacle shutter plates. This preliminary constraint prevents the shutter plate from rotating open unless the corresponding mating connector is properly engaged. The link mechanism acts as a preliminary safeguard against accidental opening while maintaining user accessibility when needed.
3Reliability
If window plate is placed close to shutter plate to close openings, then protection is improved, but dust collects in recesses making cleaning difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the window plate from the recessed position and repositions it to eliminate the cavity where dust would accumulate. By removing the problematic recess structure while maintaining the protective function of the window plate, the design prevents dust collection and facilitates easier cleaning of the optical connector surfaces.
4Reliability
If linkage means is added to link shutter mechanisms, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The linkage function is segmented into simple geometric features integrated into the existing plug and receptacle structures. Rather than adding a complex separate linkage mechanism, the patent uses cam surfaces, link arms, and positional features that are distributed throughout the connector design. Each component performs multiple functions including structural support, alignment, and shutter control, reducing overall complexity.
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
This design effectively prevents dust from entering the connector, maintains a clean environment, and simplifies maintenance by ensuring the shutter remains closed, thereby extending the lifespan and reducing maintenance efforts.
Implementation Method 1
an urging member constantly urging the movable member toward the other of the plug and the receptacle in the axial direction
Implementation Method 2
a cam mechanism adapted to cause the shutter mechanism to follow movement of the movable member
Data Source
AI summary
Each of a plug and a receptacle is provided with an optical contact and a shutter mechanism. The shutter mechanisms are linkaged with each other when connecting the plug and the receptacle to each other. At least one of the plug and the receptacle includes a movable member moved with being pushed by the other of the plug and the receptacle, an urging member constantly urging the movable member toward the other of the plug and the receptacle, and a cam mechanism causes the shutter mechanism to follow movement of the movable member. The shutter mechanism includes a shutter plate having an opening and movable between a first position where the opening does not face the optical contact and a second position where the opening faces the optical contact, and a projection adapted to be fitted into the opening when the shutter plate is in the first position.