CONNECTOR LOCKING BY FIBRE OPTICS

摘要

Two connector portions (1, 2) are locked in the coupled-together state by means of a locking pin (3) engaged in a locking recess (4) of one portion (1). The locking pin (3) is carried by an element (5) of shape memory metal comprised as a leaf spring or compression spring. To retract the locking pin (3) for coupling or uncoupling of the connector portions (1, 2) the element (5) is heated by optical power supplied thereto from a remote laser source via an optical fibre cable (7) with a lens termination (6). Upon cooling of the element the locking pin is returned and extends into the bore of the portion (2) in the absence of a portion (1).