SFP Connector Locking Mechanism Spring Plate Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing SFP plug elements require complex and costly spring element training and assembly to reliably reset and hold the locking mechanism in the locked position, which is inefficient and labor-intensive.
Innovation Solution
A SFP plug element with a rotatably mounted locking element and a spring plate integrated into the housing, where the spring plate exerts restoring forces to securely lock and unlock the mechanism, eliminating the need for loose spring components and simplifying assembly by being firmly connected to the housing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If loose spring components are used to exert restoring force on the locking mechanism, then the locking element can be reliably reset to the locking position, but the assembly becomes complex and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the spring element directly into the actuating element, combining two previously separate components (spring and actuator) into a single unified structure. This eliminates the need for separate loose spring components and reduces assembly steps while maintaining the restoring force function that reliably resets the locking element to the locking position.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuating element is designed to serve multiple functions: it acts as both the actuator for manual operation and as the mounting structure for the spring element. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate spring mounting components and simplifies the overall assembly while ensuring reliable resetting of the locking mechanism.
2Reliability
If multiple loose spring components are used to hold the locking element in the locked position, then reliable holding is achieved, but assembly effort and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The spring element is integrated into the actuating element, merging the spring function with the actuator structure. This eliminates the need for multiple separate spring components and their associated mounting operations, significantly reducing assembly effort and costs while maintaining reliable holding of the locking element in the locked position through the integrated restoring force.
3Reliability
If loose spring components and additional bearing elements are used in the locking mechanism, then the locking element can be actuated reliably, but the number of loose parts increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spring element is combined with the actuating element into a single integrated component, eliminating separate loose spring parts. Additionally, the actuating element incorporates bearing functionality directly into its structure, eliminating the need for separate bearing elements. This integration maintains reliable actuation of the locking mechanism while significantly reducing the total number of loose parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuating element is designed as a multi-functional component that simultaneously provides actuation, spring mounting, and bearing functions. This universal design consolidates multiple previously separate components into one, reducing the quantity of loose parts while ensuring reliable actuation of the locking mechanism through the integrated functions.
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 solution provides a simple, cost-effective, and efficient mechanism for resetting and holding the locking element in the locked position, reducing assembly effort and eliminating loose parts, while ensuring reliable operation.
Implementation Method 1
a spring plate is arranged in the interior of the plug housing, which is located at least indirectly on one of the housing parts as a counter bearing supported. The spring plate exerts a spring force on the locking element counter to the force caused by the actuating element, i.e. the pull tab, in order to exert a restoring force on the locking mechanism
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The connector element (2), in particular SFP connector, comprises a locking mechanism for forming a lockable plug-type connection between the connector element (2) and a mating piece. For this purpose, a locking element (22) is formed. The locking element is mounted in rotatably movable fashion, wherein, in the case of actuation of an actuation element (24), in particular a pull tab (24), the locking element (22) is rotated out of a locking position into an open position. In order to exert a restoring force for return to the locking position, a spring steel sheet (30) is disposed which is supported on a housing part (48) and which exerts a spring force on the locking element (22) counter to the force brought about by the actuating element (24). Expediently, a plurality of spring lugs (56, 58) are formed which exert a spring force on the locking element (22) in different directions.