Telecommunications Module Disconnection via Probe Deflection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Dual-sided telecommunications modules face challenges in incorporating disconnection contact elements without increasing module thickness, while ensuring efficient use of space and correct alignment for external probes.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating a separating member between disconnection points of contact elements, which deflects probes towards selected disconnection points, allowing for compact module design and efficient space utilization, with tapered ends directing probes accurately without needing increased separation between contact elements.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If disconnection contact elements are incorporated into dual-sided telecommunications modules, then disconnection and testing functionality is enabled, but module thickness increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedisconnection and testing functionalityVSAvoidmodule thickness
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLength of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The contact elements are arranged in two opposed rows extending between opposite sides of the module, utilizing the third dimension (depth) to accommodate disconnection contact elements without increasing overall module thickness. This spatial reconfiguration allows probe access from the front while maintaining compact form factor.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The disconnection contact elements are nested within the existing contact element structure, with the separating member integrated into the housing. The probe insertion path is nested through the housing structure to access disconnection points without requiring additional external space.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Length of stationary object

If contact elements are arranged in two opposed rows for compactness, then module thickness is reduced, but probe alignment to disconnection points becomes difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemodule thicknessVSAvoidprobe alignment
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of stationary objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

A separating member with a probe-deflecting portion is introduced as an intermediary element. This mediator redirects the probe's path from the front access opening to the precise disconnection point on the contact element, solving the alignment difficulty without requiring increased module thickness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The separating member features an asymmetric probe-deflecting portion with a specific geometry that guides the probe at the correct angle to reach the disconnection point. This asymmetric design compensates for the symmetric arrangement of contact elements in opposed rows.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

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

Enables correct alignment and insertion of probes without increasing module thickness, enhancing space efficiency and contact force, while maintaining compactness and facilitating disconnection, testing, or monitoring operations.

Implementation Method 1

the first part being resiliently-biased into engagement with the second part at a disconnection point

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

the separating member being shaped to deflect a probe, inserted into the module from one of the opposed sides, towards the disconnection point

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical Force: Mechanical Force

Data Source

PatentEP2553939B1Telecommunications module with disconnection feature
Publication Date: 2016.10.12 3M INNOVATIVE PROPERTIES CO
  • EP2553939B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP2553939B1 patent drawingFigure 3
  • EP2553939B1 patent drawingFigure 4

AI summary

A telecommunications module (1) comprises at least one pair of contact elements (13, 15) each extending between opposed sides (7, 8) of the module and having contacts (9, 10) at each end to which connections can be made. Each contact element comprises first and second parts (17, 19), the first part being resiliently-biased into engagement with the second part at a disconnection point (21), and a separating member (23) is located between the disconnection points of the pair of contact elements. The separating member (23) is shaped to deflect a probe (29), inserted into the module from one of the opposed sides, towards the disconnection point of a selected one of the pair of contact elements to break the engagement between the first and second parts of that contact element.