Optical Fiber Plug Slider Tool for Dense Adapter Access

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing tools for managing densely disposed adapters in optical fiber cable connections require additional space for knobs and projections, making them unsuitable for compact device applications.

Innovation Solution

A tool comprising a plug body with a slider and a handle, where the handle has a fragile part with a small cross-sectional area, allowing for efficient insertion and removal of the plug from the adapter without the need for additional space, facilitated by an insertion portion and a boot surrounding part that accommodates the optical fiber cable.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If existing tools with knobs and projections are used to manage densely disposed adapters, then the fitting and removal operations can be facilitated, but additional space is required between plugs which increases device size

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefitting and removal operationVSAvoidspace between plugs
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The tool is integrated directly into the plug structure, merging the extraction function with the plug body. The tool includes a pressing part that presses the plug body and a slider that slides along the optical fiber cable, combining multiple functions into a unified structure that eliminates the need for separate external tools and reduces space requirements between densely disposed adapters

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The tool serves multiple functions: it facilitates both insertion and extraction operations, acts as a structural component of the plug, and provides operational leverage through the slider mechanism. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate specialized tools while maintaining ease of operation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of operation

If a tool with external components is attached to the plug, then manipulation capability is improved, but the tool may break due to additional stress and structural complexity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanipulation capabilityVSAvoidtool breakage risk
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

By integrating the tool as an inherent part of the plug structure rather than attaching it externally, the design eliminates weak connection points and reduces overall structural complexity. The pressing part and slider are formed as integral components, which improves reliability by removing potential failure points associated with external attachments

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The tool is designed to be self-supporting as part of the plug structure, with the pressing part and slider working together to provide stable manipulation. The slider moves along the optical fiber cable to provide leverage while the pressing part maintains contact with the plug body, creating a self-reinforcing mechanism that reduces stress concentration

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Area of stationary object

If the tool structure is simplified to reduce space requirements, then device compactness is improved, but grip functionality may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveclearance between adaptersVSAvoidgrip functionality
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The slider component extends along the optical fiber cable in a direction perpendicular to the plug body, utilizing the longitudinal dimension of the cable to provide grip leverage. This dimensional approach allows the tool to achieve sufficient manipulation capability without increasing the lateral footprint between densely disposed adapters

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The slider acts as a flexible lever arm that can bend and conform to the optical fiber cable while providing mechanical advantage. This flexible component delivers effective grip functionality within a compact form factor, maintaining operational capability without requiring excessive clearance

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Data Source

PatentUS11892684B2Tool for plug, slider, plug, and cable with plug
Publication Date: 2024.02.06 SEIKOH GIKEN
  • US11892684B2 patent drawing
  • US11892684B2 patent drawing
  • US11892684B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A tool for a plug, including a plug body fitted to an adapter and a slider supported on the plug body, includes an insertion portion and a handle. The insertion portion is configured to catch the slider. The handle extends in a direction opposite to the insertion portion. The handle includes a fragile part having a locally small cross-sectional area perpendicular to the direction in which the handle extends.