Pluggable Module Circuit Card Holder With Deforming Locating Fin
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pluggable modules face difficulties in reliable positioning of circuit cards, which can lead to damage during loading into communication connectors.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of a circuit card holder with a locating fin having a sacrificial upper edge that deforms to bias the circuit card downward, ensuring proper alignment and secure positioning within the outer housing and communication connector.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional locating features are used for circuit cards, then the structure remains simple, but the positioning reliability is insufficient and damage may occur during loading
Solution Approach 1:
The sacrificial upper edge is pre-formed on the locating fin before assembly. During the loading process, this pre-formed edge automatically deforms to create the downward biasing force, performing the positioning action in advance and during insertion without requiring additional mechanisms or steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The sacrificial upper edge is designed as a disposable feature that deforms during the loading process. This intentional deformation of a non-critical portion of the locating fin provides the necessary downward force to secure the circuit card, sacrificing a small portion of the locating fin to ensure reliable positioning and prevent damage to critical components.
2Ease of operation
If no locating features are provided, then the device complexity is reduced, but the circuit card positioning becomes difficult and components may be damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The locating fin with sacrificial upper edge is designed to automatically perform the positioning function during normal operation. When the circuit card is inserted, the sacrificial upper edge deforms and provides downward biasing force, enabling the holder to self-position the circuit card without requiring external assistance or complex adjustment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The locating fin's physical state changes during operation. The sacrificial upper edge transitions from an intact state to a deformed state during loading, changing its geometric parameters to provide the necessary downward biasing force. This parameter change enables easy positioning while maintaining relatively simple holder structure.
3Reliability
If the circuit card holder uses a rigid locating fin, then the structure is simple and strong, but the circuit card cannot be properly biased downward for secure positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The locating fin is designed with non-uniform properties: the main body remains rigid to maintain structural integrity, while the sacrificial upper edge is made locally deformable. This local quality differentiation allows the fin to provide both structural strength and the necessary downward biasing force through controlled deformation of the sacrificial edge during loading.
Solution Approach 2:
The locating fin is functionally segmented into two zones: a rigid main body that provides structural support and a sacrificial upper edge that deforms to provide downward biasing force. This segmentation allows the single locating fin to simultaneously maintain structural integrity and enable reliable engagement through controlled local deformation.
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 reliable and secure engagement of the circuit card with the communication connector, preventing damage and ensuring accurate alignment for effective data communication.
Implementation Method 1
The sacrificial upper edge is deformed when engaging the outer housing to press the circuit card holder and the circuit card in a downward biasing direction
Data Source
AI summary
A pluggable module includes an outer housing having a cavity between an upper wall and a lower wall. A circuit card is received in the cavity having a card edge configured to be received in a card slot of a communication connector. A circuit card holder engages the circuit card and holds the circuit card in the cavity of the outer housing. The circuit card holder includes a locating fin at a top of the circuit card holder. The locating fin has a sacrificial upper edge configured to engage the outer housing to locate the circuit card holder and the circuit card in the cavity. The sacrificial upper edge is deformed when engaging the outer housing to press the circuit card holder and the circuit card in a downward biasing direction.