Push-Pull Boot Connector With Remote Release in High-Density Fiber Panels
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fiber optic cable connectors, such as LC connectors, are limited by their physical size and require direct manipulation for release, leading to space constraints and accessibility issues in datacenters.
Innovation Solution
A push-pull boot connector design that allows remote release by pulling on a strain relief boot, featuring a latch release ramp and a clip-in connection between the connector housing and boot, enabling easy installation and removal without direct access to the connector housing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional LC connectors are used, then connector density is limited to 144 fibers per panel, but this limits the amount of data that can be transmitted and requires more physical space
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into separate functional components: a housing portion with latch mechanism and a boot portion with strain relief features. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently, enabling higher density while maintaining functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch mechanism is nested within the housing structure, with the latch arm rotating within the housing to engage and disengage from the adapter. This nested design eliminates the need for external protruding latch components, reducing the space envelope required per connector.
2Ease of operation
If extended pulling latches are added to facilitate removal, then accessibility is improved, but the space required for each connection increases
Solution Approach 1:
The boot acts as an intermediary element between the user's hand and the connector housing. By attaching the boot to the cable assembly and providing grip features on the boot, users can manipulate the connector for removal without needing direct access to the housing or traditional external latches.
Solution Approach 2:
The boot integrates multiple functions including strain relief, user grip interface, and removal actuation. The pull cord attached to the boot provides a self-contained removal mechanism that eliminates the need for separate external latch components, making the connector self-sufficient for both installation and removal operations.
3Device complexity
If direct manipulation of latch mechanisms is required, then connector design is simplified, but accessibility becomes difficult at high densities
Solution Approach 1:
The boot serves as a mediator that transfers the user's pulling force to the connector assembly. The pull cord extends from the boot, allowing users to initiate removal from a distance without needing to physically access the connector housing or its latch mechanisms in tight spaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is segmented into housing and boot portions with distinct functions. The housing contains the latch mechanism while the boot provides the user interface for removal. This segmentation allows the boot to be positioned optimally for accessibility while the housing maintains its compact structure for high density.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A push-pull connection includes a push-pull boot connector and an adapter, which are connected together and retained with a latching mechanism. The push-pull boot connector includes a connector housing and a remote release push-pull strain relief boot. The connector housing, when pulled away from the mating face of the adapter, via the strain relief boot, will detach the latching mechanism.