SFP Connector Sliding Latch Mechanism for Locking Reliability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional SFP transceivers require complex mechanisms for lock-and-release functions, leading to increased material usage and cost.
Innovation Solution
A connector with a sliding element and rotation element, where the sliding element moves between two positions along a straight line to wedge into or separate from a wedging hole on an elastic sheet, reducing the number of mechanism elements and simplifying the structure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional SFP transceiver uses complex lock-and-release mechanisms, then the locking reliability is improved, but the device complexity and material usage increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the locking and releasing functions into a single integrated mechanism. The elastic sheet with wedging hole and the latch work together as one system, eliminating the need for separate complex locking and releasing components. This merging reduces device complexity while maintaining reliable locking through the elastic deformation and wedging action.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic sheet automatically performs both locking and releasing functions based on the insertion and removal actions. When the connector is inserted, the elastic sheet deforms and the latch wedges into the hole, automatically locking. When removed, the elastic sheet returns to its original shape, automatically releasing the latch. This self-service mechanism eliminates complex control systems.
2Reliability
If conventional SFP transceiver uses complex lock-and-release mechanisms, then the locking reliability is improved, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple functions into fewer components, the patent reduces the total number of parts that need to be manufactured, assembled, and quality-checked. The elastic sheet and latch structure can be manufactured as integrated components, reducing assembly steps and manufacturing cost while maintaining reliable locking.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses simple, easily manufactured components like elastic sheets and basic latch structures that can be produced at low cost. These components are designed to be simple enough for cost-effective manufacturing while still providing reliable locking functionality through clever mechanical design rather than expensive materials or complex mechanisms.
3Reliability
If conventional SFP transceiver uses many mechanism elements, then the lock-and-release functions are achieved, but the material usage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functional elements into fewer physical components. The elastic sheet serves multiple purposes: providing the wedging surface, storing elastic energy for locking force, and enabling automatic release. The latch structure combines locking, holding, and release functions. This merging reduces the quantity of materials needed compared to conventional designs with separate components for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an elastic sheet (a flexible thin film structure) to achieve locking and releasing functions. This thin film approach uses minimal material compared to rigid mechanical mechanisms, while the elastic properties of the material provide the necessary locking force and automatic release capability without requiring additional components.
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
This design decreases material usage and cost while simplifying the manufacturing process and providing modified movement functions, compared to conventional SFP transceivers.
Implementation Method 1
The connection port comprises an elastic sheet. A wedging hole is formed on the elastic sheet.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector adapted to be connected to a network device is provided. The network device includes a connection port, and the connection port includes an elastic sheet. A wedging hole is formed on the elastic sheet. The connector includes a connector housing, a sliding element and a rotation element. The connector housing includes a latch. The latch is formed on the connector housing, and is adapted to be wedged into the wedging hole. The sliding element is moved between a first position and a second position along a straight line. When the sliding element is in the first position, the latch wedges into the wedging hole. When the sliding element is in the second position, the sliding element abuts the elastic sheet to separate the latch from the wedging hole. The rotation element is connected to the sliding element.