Reversible Optical Connectors with Rotatable Plugs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional optical connectors are not suitable for high-density mounting configurations due to limited space requirements and lack of flexibility in plug arrangement, as they often require separate motions and disassembly for connection and disconnection, making it impractical to modify or switch plug arrangements in dense communication networks.
Innovation Solution
The development of reversible optical connectors with rotatable plugs and a detachable latch actuator that allows for plug configuration changes without complete disassembly, enabling 180-degree rotation and longitudinal motion-based connection release, allowing for flexible plug arrangement and operation in confined spaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional connector mechanisms are used, then connection and disconnection can be achieved through downward press and proximal pull motions, but the user must position hands around the connector near the base which is not practical in high density mounting configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into separate functional modules: a housing containing the latch mechanism and a detachable actuator assembly. This segmentation allows the actuator to be positioned and operated independently from the connector body, eliminating the need for users to position hands around the base of the connector.
Solution Approach 2:
A detachable actuator assembly serves as an intermediary between the user and the latch mechanism. The actuator can be coupled to the housing and provides a remote interface for actuating the latch, allowing users to disconnect connectors without direct hand contact near the connector base.
2Productivity
If multiple plugs are positioned side-by-side on a single connector, then multiple channels of communication can be facilitated, but the arrangement cannot be switched without disconnecting and reconnecting the connector
Solution Approach 1:
The plugs are made rotatable relative to the housing, transforming a static connector configuration into a dynamic one. Users can rotate plugs to switch between different communication channels or arrangements while the connector remains connected, providing flexibility without disconnection.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector allows transition between different operational phases or states by rotating plugs to different positions. This enables switching between multiple communication channel configurations without completing the full cycle of disconnection and reconnection.
3Area of stationary object
If conventional optical connectors are used in high density mounting configurations, then space is limited, but the connectors lack flexibility to be changed to fit the particular application
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is segmented into a housing and detachable actuators, allowing the actuators to be repositioned or removed based on specific application requirements. This modular approach enables adaptation to different mounting configurations and applications within limited space.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotatable plugs provide dynamic reconfiguration capability within the limited space of high-density mounting configurations. Users can adjust plug orientations to fit different application requirements without requiring additional space for disassembly or reconfiguration.
Data Source
AI summary
Reversible optical connectors, and associated devices and methods are provided. In one embodiment, a connector for a communication cable includes a housing comprising a cavity, and a first plug and a second plug coupled to a distal portion of the housing. The first and second plugs are connected to the housing such that the first and second plugs are independently rotatable with respect to the housing. The connector further includes a latch actuator coupled to the housing and configured to disengage one or more latches from an outlet. By rotating the plugs 180 degrees and turning the connector over, the relative arrangement or position of the two plugs can be switched or reversed. The plugs can be rotated or reversed without completely disassembling the connector, in some embodiments. Accordingly, embodiments of the present disclosure can improve workflows for a user or operator that in a high-density networking setting.