Stacked LC Optical Fiber Module Interlocking Design
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional multi-channel LC fiber optic adapter units stacked vertically tend to be loose, and interference between upper and lower connector units leads to unstable connections.
Innovation Solution
A stacked multi-channel LC optical fiber module design featuring adapter units with protruding connecting portions on both surfaces, which interlock to provide stable fixing positions, preventing sliding and ensuring proper alignment of connectors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If adapter units are stacked vertically to reduce footprint, then device area is reduced, but the stacked adapter units become loose and unstable
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter unit is segmented into multiple connecting portions (first, second, third, fourth connecting portions) distributed on upper and lower surfaces. This segmentation allows for multiple independent connection points between stacked units, distributing the stability function across several locations rather than relying on a single connection interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting portions are designed to interlock in a nested manner where the protruding connecting portions of one adapter unit fit into corresponding recesses of the adjacent unit. This nested structure creates an interlocking mechanism that enhances stacking stability while maintaining a compact vertical arrangement.
2Productivity
If adapter units are stacked vertically to increase channel density, then transmission efficiency is improved, but upper and lower connectors interfere with each other
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting portions are positioned on both upper and lower surfaces of the adapter unit, utilizing the vertical dimension for connection interfaces. This dimensional distribution separates the connection functions in the vertical direction, allowing connectors on adjacent units to operate in separate spatial zones and avoid interference while maintaining high channel density.
Solution Approach 2:
Different connecting portions are positioned at specific locations on the adapter unit surfaces with distinct functions. The first and second connecting portions handle one aspect of stability while the third and fourth connecting portions handle another aspect, creating localized functional zones that prevent interference between adjacent connectors.
3Reliability
If multiple connecting portions are added to ensure stable stacking, then connection reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting portions serve multiple functions simultaneously: they provide mechanical interlocking for stability, define alignment references for proper orientation, and create spacing to prevent connector interference. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components for each function, thereby limiting the increase in overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting portions are integrated directly into the adapter unit housing structure rather than being separate attachment components. This merging of the connection mechanism with the main body simplifies the overall device architecture while still providing the required stability and reliability for vertical stacking.
Data Source
AI summary
The utility model relates to a stacked multi-channel LC optical fiber module, including multiple adapter units and a fixing member. A first connecting portion and a second connecting portion are disposed on a lower surface of the adapter unit in a protruding manner, and a third connecting portion and a fourth connecting portion are provided on an upper surface of the adapter unit in a protruding manner. When two of the adapter units are stacked vertically, the upper first connecting portion and the lower third connecting portion are connected to provide a first fixing position, and the upper second connecting portion and the lower fourth connecting portion are connected to provide a second fixing position. In addition, the fitting between the first fixing position and the second fixing position enables the two stacked adapter units to be parallel with a gap therebetween.