Self-Locking Fiber Optic Push-Pull Boot for Dense Connector Assemblies
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing push-pull boots for fiber optic connectors are either detachable, consume space, or lack the rigidity needed for high-density applications, and there is a need for a non-detachable, space-efficient solution that maintains attachment to the release member.
Innovation Solution
A push-pull boot with a boot latch comprising a first and second side extension and a central head member, which engages with the release member to prevent removal when forces are applied, ensuring the boot remains attached to the fiber optic connector.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional push-pull stick is used to attach to the release member, then the release function is achieved, but the assembly consumes excessive space and increases device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the push-pull boot and release member into a single integrated assembly, eliminating the need for separate push-pull sticks. The boot latch features a head member with side extensions that engage with the release member, merging the functions of attachment and release operation into one compact structure, thereby reducing assembly space while maintaining operational capability
Solution Approach 2:
The boot latch head member is disposed within the release member in a nested configuration. The head member with its side extensions fits inside the release member's structure, allowing compact integration that minimizes the overall volume of the assembly while preserving the release function
2Volume of moving object
If a flexible push-pull boot is used, then space is saved compared to rigid sticks, but the boot cannot withstand pulling forces and detach from the release member
Solution Approach 1:
The boot latch incorporates a latch spring that provides dynamic mechanical force to maintain engagement between the head member and release member. This dynamic element allows the flexible boot to withstand pulling forces during connector removal while maintaining attachment, resolving the contradiction between flexibility and strength
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible boot material is combined with the rigid boot latch structure featuring head member and side extensions. This hybrid design maintains the space-saving flexibility of the boot while adding the structural strength needed to withstand pulling forces through the integrated latch mechanism
3Strength
If the boot latch side extensions are rigid, then attachment strength is improved, but the boot loses flexibility and bendability
Solution Approach 1:
The boot latch employs local quality by making only the head member and side extensions rigid to provide attachment strength, while the main boot body remains flexible. This localized rigidity allows the critical engagement components to be strong while preserving the overall flexibility and bendability of the boot for space-efficient design
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
The boot latch design provides rigidity parallel to the longitudinal axis, preventing detachment while allowing flexible movement away from the axis, ensuring secure attachment and easy connector removal without increasing assembly parts.
Implementation Method 1
the central head member connected to and at least partially disposed between the first side extension and the second side extension by at least one flexure member
Data Source
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AI summary
A fiber optic connector includes a connector body (112), a release member (114) attached to the connector body (112) and having a boot latch opening (118) at a rear end (120), a push-pull boot (122) attached to the release member (114), and a boot latch (124) attached to the push-pull boot (122) and extending forward and away from the push-pull boot (122), the boot latch (124) having a first and second side extension (126,128) and a central head member (130) connected to and at least partially disposed between the first and the second side extensions (126,128) by at least one flexure member (132), the boot latch (124) is permanently disposed within the release member (114) after the boot latch (124) is inserted into the boot latch opening (118) as the central head member (130) engages each of the first side extension (126) and the second side extension (128) preventing removal of the boot latch (124) from the release member (114) when push or pull forces are applied to the push-pull boot (122).