Optical Plug Connector Locking for Faster Module Replacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional plug connectors require complex and difficult operations to replace the photoelectric conversion module, such as detaching a stopper and turning a coupling nut, which hampers workability.
Innovation Solution
A plug connector design featuring a Z-axis-direction locking mechanism and a rotation locking mechanism, using a locking member with spring pieces and claws, allows easy detachment and assembly of the end bell from the barrel by rotating and moving the locking member backward, simplifying the replacement process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional plug connector uses a stopper and coupling nut for securing the photoelectric conversion module, then the connector provides stable connection, but the replacement operation becomes complex and difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is divided into two independent functions: a Z-axis-direction locking mechanism with convex/concave portions for stable connection, and a rotation locking mechanism with a locking member for easy operation. This segmentation allows each mechanism to specialize in one aspect, resolving the contradiction between stability and ease of replacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking member is designed to be movable in the Z-axis direction, transitioning between locked and unlocked states. This dynamic design allows the connector to provide stable connection during normal operation while enabling easy replacement when needed, resolving the contradiction between connection stability and replacement ease.
2Device complexity
If the plug connector uses a stopper that is elastically deformed and fitted, then the connector achieves simple structure, but the detaching operation becomes especially hard to perform
Solution Approach 1:
The locking function is segmented into Z-axis locking (for stability) and rotation locking (for ease of operation). The rotation locking mechanism with a movable locking member provides a clear mechanical advantage for detaching, eliminating the difficulty of detaching elastically fitted components while maintaining simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking member acts as an intermediary that mediates between the user's operation and the locking mechanism. By providing a dedicated locking member that moves in the Z-axis direction, the design simplifies the detaching operation without requiring complex tools or techniques.
3Reliability
If the plug connector requires detaching stopper and turning coupling nut for module replacement, then the connector maintains secure connection, but the replacement time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection security is maintained by the Z-axis-direction locking mechanism with convex/concave portions, while the replacement time is reduced by the rotation locking mechanism with a movable locking member. This segmentation allows simultaneous achievement of secure connection and rapid replacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The dynamic locking member that can move in the Z-axis direction enables rapid transition between locked and unlocked states. This dynamic design significantly reduces replacement time while the Z-axis locking mechanism ensures connection security during normal operation.
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
Facilitates easy release and replacement of the photoelectric conversion module by allowing simple rotation and axial movement of the end bell, enhancing operational efficiency and reducing component complexity.
Implementation Method 1
The pair of spring pieces has an elastic restoring force against an external force that reduces a distance between the spring pieces
Data Source
AI summary
In a plug connector that incorporates an optical connector and a photoelectric conversion module connected with the optical connector, the optical connector attached to an optical cable is accommodated in an end bell and the photoelectric conversion module is accommodated in a barrel inserted into a mating receptacle connector. The barrel and the end bell go in a fitting completion state (locked state) by a Z-axis-direction locking mechanism and a rotation locking mechanism around the Z axis when the end bell is fitted to the barrel and the end bell is rotated about an axial center thereof (Z axis). The end bell can be detached from the barrel when the end bell is rotated in a reverse direction to that in locking while operating the locking member functioning as a rotation lock and releasing the rotation lock.