Segmented Latching Arm Backpost for Optical Connectors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional optical connectors face challenges in flexibility and structural optimization due to limited latching arm length, which affects material selection and buckling strength, particularly in high-frequency bandwidth applications like 400G optical module communications.
Innovation Solution
A backpost design featuring latching arms composed of multiple structure segments, allowing for increased length without altering the overall element length, enhancing flexibility and material selection while optimizing the structure design and buckling strength.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the latching arm is made as a single continuous structure, then the manufacturing is simpler, but the flexibility and material selection are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The latching arm is divided into multiple structure segments (first structure segment, second structure segment, third structure segment) connected together. This segmentation allows each segment to be manufactured separately with different materials or properties, then assembled into a complete latching arm that achieves both manufacturing flexibility and structural performance requirements
2Strength
If the latching arm length is increased to improve buckling strength, then the structural integrity is enhanced, but the overall element length becomes too long
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of simply extending the latching arm length in one dimension, the patent uses multiple structure segments arranged in a multi-dimensional configuration. The segments are connected at different angles and positions, effectively increasing the structural path length and buckling resistance while maintaining a compact overall footprint
3Adaptability or versatility
If the latching arm is made more flexible through material selection, then the adaptability is improved, but the buckling strength may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Different structure segments of the latching arm can be made from different materials or have different structural properties. This allows certain segments to be more flexible for adaptation while other segments provide the necessary buckling strength, achieving both flexibility and strength requirements in different locations of the same component
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a backpost for optical connector, comprising a supporting base and a pair of latching arms. The supporting base comprises a through hole allowing a communicating wire passing therethrough. The pair of the latching arms are arranged at the two sides of the through hole, and each latching arm comprises a plurality of structure segments connecting with each other. Alternatively, in another embodiment, the present further provides an optical connector utilizing the backpost, wherein the plurality of structure segments extend the length of the latching arms without changing the length of the backpost, such that the flexibility of the material selection for making the backpost is increased, the design of the backpost can be optimized and the latching force is also improved.