Communication module latching mechanism

#1. Field

#Embodiments disclosed herein relate generally to communication modules. More particularly, some example embodiments relate to a latching mechanism for use in selectively securing a communication module within a receptacle of a host device.

#2. Related Technology

#To further clarify the above and other advantages and features of the present invention, a more particular description will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof, which are illustrated in the appended drawings. It is appreciated that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are, therefore, not to be considered limiting of its scope. The invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which:

#FIGS. 1A and 1B illustrate an example communication module;

#FIGS. 2A-2C illustrate an example latching mechanism that may be implemented in the communication module of FIGS. 1A and 1B;

#Example embodiments relate to a latching mechanism for use in selectively securing a communication module (module) within a receptacle of a host device. One example embodiment includes a latching mechanism. The latching mechanism is secured, at least partially, to a shell of a module. The latching mechanism includes a latch, a latch release member, and a cam. The latch includes latch hooks configured to engage a structure of a host device. The latch includes a latch protrusion configured to contact the cam when the latch release member is translated in response to application of an activation force. The cam contacts the latch protrusion transferring the activation force to the latch, flexing the latch and rotating a first portion of the latch such that latch hooks disengage from the structure of the host device. In some embodiments, the latching mechanism allows the module to be secured into a receptacle of the host device by simply pushing the module into the receptacle. In these and other embodiments, the latch may be biased such that the latch hooks engage a corresponding receiver on the receptacle. Additionally, in these and other embodiments, the latch release may be mechanically coupled to a pull-tab. A user may simply pull on the pull-tab, which causes the translation necessary to disengage the module from the receptacle. Some additional embodiments are described herein referring to the appended figures.

#I. An Example Communication Module

#FIGS. 1A and 1B illustrate an example communication module (module) 100. Generally, the module 100 may be used in transmitting and receiving optical signals in connection with a host device (not shown). The host device may be operatively connected in a communication network (not shown). FIG. 1A depicts a perspective view of the module 100 and FIG. 1B depicts a partially-exploded perspective view of the module 100.