Pivoting Anti-Backout Latch for Rearward Transceiver Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing interconnect systems face the challenge of preventing interconnect modules, such as transceivers, from inadvertently un mating from electrical connectors due to rearward movement, which can disrupt data transmission and connectivity.
Innovation Solution
An anti-backout latch mechanism is introduced, allowing the interconnect module to be pivotally attached to a module housing, featuring a pivot member that engages in both the interconnect and host modules, creating mechanical interferences to prevent rearward movement and ensure secure mating with electrical connectors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the interconnect module is allowed to move freely in the rearward direction, then the ease of operation for insertion is improved, but the reliability of the electrical connection deteriorates due to inadvertent unmating
Solution Approach 1:
The anti-backout latch applies preliminary counter-action by creating mechanical interference with the host module before rearward movement can cause unmating. The latch finger engages with the host module to prevent the interconnect module from moving backward far enough to disconnect, thus counteracting the harmful effect before it occurs.
Solution Approach 2:
The anti-backout latch serves as an intermediary mechanism between the interconnect module and the host module. It mediates the interaction by providing a controlled mechanical constraint that allows insertion while preventing harmful rearward movement, thus protecting the electrical connection without interfering with normal operation.
2Reliability
If an anti-backout latch mechanism is added to prevent rearward movement, then the reliability of the electrical connection is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The anti-backout latch is segmented into distinct functional components: the latch body pivotally attached to the module housing, and the latch finger that engages with the host module. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, simplifying the overall design while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch mechanism employs dynamic characteristics by being pivotally attached to the module housing, allowing it to move between engaged and disengaged positions. This dynamic design enables the latch to adapt to the insertion and removal operations while providing reliable constraint during normal operation, reducing the need for complex fixed structures.
3Reliability
If the latch engages with both modules creating mechanical interference, then the reliability is improved, but the ease of operation for removal deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by providing a disengaged position where the latch finger is positioned to allow free rearward movement. Before removal occurs, the user can move the latch to this disengaged position, preparing the system for easy removal without having to overcome the mechanical interference constraint.
Solution Approach 2:
The dynamic pivotal attachment of the latch to the module housing enables easy transition between engaged and disengaged states. This dynamic mechanism allows the latch to be moved out of the engagement position with minimal effort, facilitating easy removal while maintaining strong constraint during 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
The anti-backout latch effectively prevents unintended unmating of interconnect modules, maintaining stable electrical connections and ensuring reliable data transfer by limiting rearward movement, thereby enhancing system robustness and reliability.
Implementation Method 1
an anti-backout latch that defines at least one pivot member configured to be pivotally attached to the module housing such that the anti-backout latch is pivotable relative to the module housing about a pivot axis
Implementation Method 2
When the anti-backout latch is in the engaged position, 1) a first mechanical interference between the anti-backout latch and the module housing limits movement of the interconnect module in the rearward direction
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B~1C
Figure 8A
AI summary
An interconnect system includes various anti-backout latches that are movable between an engaged position and a disengaged position. When in the engaged position, the anti-backout latches can be configured to prevent an interconnect module, such as an optical transceiver, from becoming unmated from a host module. When in the disengaged position, the anti-backout latches permit the interconnect module to become unmated from a host module. Securement members are also disclosed that secure a heat sink to a module housing of the interconnect module.