Optical Connector Tab Structure for Compact Secure Coupling Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical connector tabs for MPO connectors are large and cumbersome, leading to wasted space and increased costs, and often have weak attaching forces, making them prone to detachment and complicating operations in densely packed communication systems.
Innovation Solution
A compact tab design with engaging claws and pressing projections that attach to the inside of the coupling, allowing for secure engagement and disengagement without enlarging the overall connector size, and featuring a gripping member to hold the optical fiber cord securely.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If a conventional tab structure is used for optical connector disengagement, then the tab can perform the basic function of coupling advancement and retreat, but the tab dimensions become oversized leading to wasted space and increased costs
Solution Approach 1:
The tab is segmented into multiple functional arms (first arm, second arm, third arm, fourth arm) that can independently engage with different components. Each arm is responsible for specific functions such as engaging the coupling, pressing the plug body, or providing gripping functionality. This segmentation allows the tab to maintain a compact overall size while distributing functional responsibilities across multiple smaller elements, thereby reducing wasted space without compromising attaching force.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the tab are designed with different properties and functions. The first and second arms are designed for engaging with the coupling's engaging holes, while the third and fourth arms are designed for pressing the plug body. The gripping member at the rear end provides a different type of interaction for manual operation. This local differentiation optimizes the use of space by giving each portion its specific function rather than using a uniform oversized structure.
2Strength
If existing tab designs are used, then the basic engagement function is provided, but the attaching force is weak making the tab prone to detachment during disengagement
Solution Approach 1:
The tab merges multiple functions into a single integrated component. The same tab structure simultaneously provides coupling engagement (through first and second arms), plug body pressing (through third and fourth arms), and manual gripping (through the gripping member). This merging approach increases attaching force by consolidating all engagement functions into one robust structure rather than using separate components, while the integrated design actually reduces overall device complexity by eliminating the need for multiple separate parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The tab arms are pre-configured to engage with the coupling's engaging holes before the disengagement process begins. The first and second arms are positioned to insert into and hold the engaging holes, establishing a secure connection in advance. This preliminary engagement ensures that the attaching force is already in place and distributed correctly before any pulling or pressing actions occur, preventing detachment during operation.
3Productivity
If conventional tab structures are used in densified communication systems, then basic functionality is maintained, but space efficiency is reduced leading to increased costs
Solution Approach 1:
The tab is designed as a universal component that performs multiple functions: engaging the coupling, pressing the plug body, providing gripping functionality, and enabling both attachment and detachment operations. This multi-functionality means that a single compact tab structure replaces what would otherwise require multiple separate components, significantly improving space efficiency in densified communication systems while maintaining ease of operation through the integrated design that handles all operations through one component.
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 new tab design achieves space efficiency, cost reduction, and reliable attachment/detachment operations, preventing inclination and ensuring sufficient attaching force, even in densely packed environments.
Implementation Method 1
a coupling which is externally fitted in a slidable manner in forward and backward directions onto the housing; and is elastically urged all the time in a forward direction
Implementation Method 2
engagement with an elastic engaging part within the adapter being held by advancing the coupling
Data Source
Figure 1~2B
Figure 3A~3B
Figure 4A~4B
AI summary
Provided is a tab (2) including operating member (3) which is provided with an engaging part (5a) at a tip of a plurality of arms (5) so as to detachably attach and hold in each of a plurality of engaging holes (13a) formed at the rear end of a coupling (13), and gripping member (4) which is extendingly provided from the back of the operating member (3), wherein the coupling (13) advances and retreats 3 with respect to a housing (18) by an operation of the operating member (3) in association with the advance and retreat of the gripping member (4), and forward pressing or backward pressing of the plug body (1) is released.