Transceiver Connector with Self-Actuating Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connector systems for transceivers in optical communication systems face issues with signal transfer failures due to contact contamination and uneven pressure, and require additional space for manual actuation of release mechanisms, which limits density and heat dissipation.
Innovation Solution
A connector system where the transceiver is movable within the socket in a parallel direction, with complementary locking sections and resilient contacts for cleaning and equal pressure distribution, and a release mechanism that does not interrupt the top face, allowing for heat dissipation and compact design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of repair
If manual release mechanisms are used for transceiver replacement, then the transceiver can be replaced in case of failure, but finger space is required for accessibility which limits the maximum number of sockets per unit area
Solution Approach 1:
The release mechanism is actuated automatically by the insertion motion of the transceiver itself, eliminating the need for manual finger actuation. The transceiver's own movement triggers the release of the locking sections, allowing replacement without requiring accessible finger space while maintaining high socket density.
Solution Approach 2:
The release mechanism is pre-configured to be triggered by the transceiver insertion motion. The resilient sections and locking sections are arranged so that the natural insertion path of the transceiver automatically activates the release function, preparing the connection for replacement before manual intervention is needed.
2Ease of repair
If manual release mechanisms are used for transceiver replacement, then the transceiver can be replaced in case of failure, but the mechanisms interrupt top and/or side faces of the board connector thereby reducing heat dissipation surface
Solution Approach 1:
The release function is integrated into the transceiver's own insertion motion, eliminating the need for separate manual release components that would interrupt the top face. The transceiver actuates the release through its movement, allowing the complete top face to remain intact for heat dissipation while still enabling replacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The release mechanism operates in a dimension perpendicular to the top face, using side wall interactions between the socket and transceiver. The resilient sections engage and disengage through lateral movement rather than interrupting the top surface, preserving the heat dissipation area while enabling replacement functionality.
3Reliability
If the transceiver is held firmly in the socket, then contact pressure is maintained for reliable signal transfer, but the transceiver cannot be released for replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism transitions from a static locked state to a dynamic release state through the insertion motion. The resilient sections provide continuous contact pressure for reliable signal transfer during operation, but the same resilient nature allows the locking sections to disengage when the transceiver is inserted, enabling replacement while maintaining reliability during normal use.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking sections are pre-positioned to engage automatically during insertion, establishing firm contact pressure for reliable signal transfer. The mechanism is designed so that the initial insertion motion both locks the transceiver in place and positions the release mechanism, achieving both reliability and replaceability through a single action sequence.
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 system ensures clean contacts, uniform pressure, and efficient heat dissipation while maintaining a compact design without the need for extra space, reducing signal transfer failures and maximizing socket density.
Implementation Method 1
an array of resilient contacts exerting an upward contact force
Implementation Method 2
The movement of the transceiver in the direction parallel to the substrate wipes the contacts of the substrate clean before the contacts of the substrate are positioned against respective contacts of the transceiver
Implementation Method 3
the complete top face can be used for heat dissipation, for instance by means of a heat sink
Implementation Method 4
the complete top face can be used for heat dissipation, for instance by means of a heat sink
Data Source
AI summary
A connector with a transceiver and a socket on a substrate receiving the transceiver. The transceiver is movable within the socket into a locked position in a direction parallel to the substrate. The socket and transceiver include complementary locking sections cooperating when the transceiver is in the locked position. During the movement the transceiver wipes over contacts, e.g., on the substrate or on an interposer.