Rotatable Release Mechanism for High-Density Fiber Optic Plugs
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Solution Overview
Problem
In high-density fiber optic applications, such as data centers, the close spacing of networking devices makes it difficult to release plugs from receptacles due to the proximity of adjacent plugs, which hampers the operation of release tabs.
Innovation Solution
A plug assembly with a rotatable release mechanism, featuring elongate ferrules, plug housings, flexible release levers, and an actuating assembly that includes a transverse pin and eccentric parts, allowing for easy release by rotating the mechanism to disengage the tabs from the receptacle without applying force parallel to the actuating axis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If plugs are arranged in close proximity in high-density fiber optic applications, then the density of fiber optic connections is improved, but the ease of operation for releasing plugs from receptacles deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The release mechanism changes the direction of actuation from a linear pushing motion (parallel to the plug axis) to a rotational motion (perpendicular to the plug axis). The actuating assembly rotates about an actuating axis that is perpendicular to the actuation axis, allowing the release lever to pivot and disengage the tab from the receptacle in a direction that does not conflict with adjacent plugs.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of pushing the release tab in the same direction as plug insertion (linear motion along the plug axis), the mechanism inverts the release action by using rotational motion perpendicular to the insertion direction. The actuating assembly rotates to pivot the release lever, causing the tab to be pulled out perpendicular to the original insertion path.
2Device complexity
If a linear release mechanism is used, then the structure is simple, but the release action may get stuck due to imperfections in metal receptacles
Solution Approach 1:
The release mechanism transitions from a static linear push to a dynamic rotational motion. The actuating assembly includes an actuating lever that rotates about an actuating axis, creating a pivoting motion that allows the release tab to clear imperfections in the receptacle. This dynamic rotational action provides a more reliable release by avoiding the sticking problem associated with linear motion against imperfect surfaces.
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 easy and secure release of plugs from receptacles, even in tight spaces, reducing the risk of tabs getting stuck due to imperfections in metal receptacles, by utilizing a perpendicular force mechanism that simplifies the release process.
Implementation Method 1
an actuating assembly arranged for rotation as a unit about an actuating axis in parallel to the ferrules and comprising a handle, an eccentric part and an elongate concentric part interconnecting the handle and the eccentric part. The transverse pin is positioned between the eccentric part and the plug housing adjacent the eccentric part and further wherein by rotation of the actuating assembly about the actuating axis the eccentric part urges the transverse pin towards the housing.
Data Source
AI summary
A plug assembly comprising at least one elongate ferrule terminating an one optic fiber and arranged in parallel to an actuating axis, a plug housing the ferrule and such that an end of the ferrule is exposed at a forward end thereof, the forward end configured for insertion into a receptacle, an elongate release lever for releasably securing the plug housing to the receptacle, the lever comprising a first end fixed to the plug housing towards the forward end and a flexible free end, and an actuating assembly cooperating with the flexible free end and rotatable about the actuating axis between a position where the flexible free end is positioned spaced from the housing and a position where the flexible free end is positioned immediately adjacent the housing.