Tool-less Ferrule Retainer for High-Density Connectors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional tool-less ferrule retainers are impractical for high-density connector applications due to the need for squeezing, which requires space that is often unavailable, and they degrade at high temperatures, compromising their functionality.
Innovation Solution
A ferrule retainer configuration using a resilient member and axial actuator for tool-less release, allowing for high-temperature resistance and space-efficient design, where the ferrule retainer is released through axial motion without needing side access, utilizing metal components that maintain resiliency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional tool-less ferrule retainers use squeezing mechanism for release, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases and applicability to high-density configurations deteriorates due to lack of side space
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of squeezing the ferrule retainer from the sides to release it, the invention inverts the operation by pushing the actuator axially forward to release the ferrule retainer. This inversion of the release mechanism allows operation in high-density configurations where side access is unavailable, while maintaining tool-less operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the dimension of operation from lateral squeezing to axial pushing. By moving the actuator along the axial dimension rather than requiring lateral access, the ferrule retainer can be released in high-density connector configurations where side space is constrained.
2Ease of manufacture
If conventional tool-less ferrule retainers use polymeric materials, then ease of manufacture is improved, but reliability deteriorates at high temperatures due to degradation and loss of resiliency
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the material parameter from polymeric to metal, which fundamentally alters the thermal performance characteristics. Metal materials maintain their mechanical properties and resiliency at high temperatures, ensuring reliable operation in high-temperature environments while still allowing for manufacturable designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The ferrule retainer assembly combines multiple materials including metal components for the actuator and ferrule retainer body, providing both high-temperature reliability and appropriate mechanical properties. The resilient member may use specialized materials that combine elasticity with heat resistance.
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
Facilitates easy and reliable tool-less removal of ferrules in high-density connector configurations without degrading at high temperatures, ensuring consistent performance.
Implementation Method 1
a resilient member having a relaxed state, and comprising at least one second latch element configured for releasably engaging said at least one first latch element
Implementation Method 2
The ferrule assembly is often biased forward in the connector body by a spring
Data Source
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AI summary
A ferrule retainer (105) is provided for retaining a ferrule (103) and a spring (104) in a connector body (101). The connector body (100) defines at least one cavity (101a) and at least one first latch element (102) adjacent the cavity. The ferrule retainer (105) comprises a retainer body (110) configured for insertion into the cavity (101), a resilient member (106) attached to the retainer body (110), and an actuator (107) slidably mounted for forward and backward movement on the retainer body (110). The resilient member (106) has a relaxed state, and comprises at least one second latch element (106a) configured for releasably engaging the at least one first latch element (102). The actuator (107) has an actuated and an unactuated state. In the actuated state, the actuator (107) bends the resilient member (106), thereby causing the at least one second latch element (106a) to move laterally relative to its position when the resilient member (106) is in its relaxed state. In the unactuated state, the actuator (107) does not significantly bend/flex the resilient member (106).