A fiber optic connector and connection assembly

CN117420641BActive Publication Date: 2026-10-20TIME INTERCONNECT TECH (HUIZHOU) LTD
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202311302954.3
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Patents(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2023-10-10
Publication Date
2026-10-20
Estimated Expiration
2043-10-10

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

在现有的技术中,光纤连接器大多用于单芯与单芯之间的光纤的连接,无法满足目前高速度高密度的传输需求

Benefits of technology

[0020]1、结构精简,满足高密度传输性能。在本发明提供的光纤连接器中,尾套和外框包围在连接机构外侧,形成层套式组装结构,安装结构简单,提高了空间利用率,并实现多芯的连接,在空间和尺寸小型化同时不影响光纤性能传输。降低组装难度,节省连接器的生产成本,极大地满足数据中心的使用要求。在集中布线过程中减少了接点,提高了网络稳定性。除此以外,层套式组装结构还方便维护和降低维护成本,使故障处理更快速,快速完成极性互换,缩短系统故障的历时,从而相应的增强工作效率。

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Abstract

The application relates to the technical field of communication technology, and discloses an optical fiber connector and a connecting assembly. The optical fiber connector comprises a tail cover and an outer frame which are detachably connected, and a connecting mechanism which is arranged in the tail cover and has one end of the outer frame as a connecting end; the connecting mechanism comprises a stopper, a limiting assembly, a plurality of elastic members, a plurality of ceramic ferrules and an inner frame cover, the stopper and the inner frame cover are detachably connected and internally form a containing portion; the ceramic ferrules and the elastic members are limited in the containing portion through the limiting assembly, the limiting assembly is provided with at least four limiting holes, the ceramic ferrules pass through the limiting holes and are partially exposed on the connecting end, and the elastic members are arranged on the periphery of the ceramic ferrules; the outer frame is one of a male frame or a female frame, and the male frame and the female frame are detachably connected at the connecting end. The optical fiber connector has the characteristics of miniaturization, simple installation and high-density transmission. In addition, the application also provides a connecting assembly comprising the optical fiber connector.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of communication technology, and in particular to an optical fiber connector and connection component. Background Technology

[0002] Fiber optic connectors, used for connecting optical fibers, are essential structures in fiber optic communication systems for connecting optical devices and modules. In recent years, with the development of technologies such as 5G networks, cloud computing, and the Internet of Things, the communication technology field has placed higher demands on the speed, quality, and reliability of fiber optic connectors. Currently, fiber optic connectors are developing towards miniaturization, high density, high-speed transmission, and high frequency. In existing technologies, fiber optic connectors are mostly used for connecting single-core fibers, which cannot meet the current high-speed, high-density transmission requirements.

[0003] Therefore, how to provide a connector with a simplified structure that meets the requirements of high-density and high-speed transmission performance is a problem that needs to be solved by those skilled in the art. Summary of the Invention

[0004] To address the aforementioned problems, embodiments of this application provide an optical fiber connector. This connector forms a layered assembly structure through a tail sleeve, an outer frame, and a connecting mechanism. The installation structure is simple, enabling multi-core connections without the need for adapters. Connection is achieved directly through the mating of the male and female frames, further simplifying the structure. In addition, this invention also provides a connecting assembly.

[0005] Specifically, an optical fiber connector for connecting optical fibers includes a detachable tail sleeve and an outer frame, as well as an internal connecting mechanism for limiting the optical fiber, wherein the end of the outer frame is the connecting end.

[0006] The connecting mechanism includes a stop, a limiting component, several elastic elements, several ceramic inserts and an inner frame sleeve. The stop and the inner frame sleeve are detachably connected and have an accommodating portion inside.

[0007] The ceramic insert and the elastic element are limited within the receiving portion by the limiting component. The limiting component has at least four limiting holes. The ceramic insert is limited within the limiting holes and partially exposed at the connecting end. The elastic element is sleeved around the ceramic insert.

[0008] The outer frame is either a male frame or a female frame, and the male frame and the female frame are detachably connected at the connection end.

[0009] Preferably, the device further includes a connector, which includes a crimping portion and a heat-shrinkable portion for fixing the optical cable. The crimping portion is connected to the stop, and the heat-shrinkable portion is connected to the tail sleeve.

[0010] Preferably, the stop member is provided with a first buckle, and the inner frame is provided with a first fastening part, or the stop member is provided with a first fastening part, and the inner frame is provided with a first buckle, and the stop member and the inner frame are connected by the first locking point and the first fastening part.

[0011] Preferably, the inner frame sleeve is further provided with an auxiliary groove on its side wall.

[0012] Preferably, the outer frame is provided with a second buckle, and the tail sleeve is provided with a second fastening part, or the outer frame is provided with a second fastening part, and the tail sleeve is provided with a second latch, and the outer frame and the tail sleeve are connected by the second latch and the second fastening part.

[0013] Preferably, the male frame is inserted into the female frame and fastened together.

[0014] Preferably, the female frame includes a female frame body, which is connected to a fastener for engaging with the male frame and a plurality of ceramic sleeves for engaging with the ceramic insert.

[0015] In some embodiments, the limiting component includes a first limiting member and a second limiting member. The first limiting member includes at least four limiting grooves, and the second limiting member includes at least four limiting holes. One end of the ceramic insert is connected to the limiting groove, and the other end passes through the limiting hole and protrudes from the connecting end. The elastic members are fitted onto the ceramic insert, and their two ends abut against the first limiting member and the second limiting member, respectively.

[0016] In other embodiments, the limiting component includes a third limiting member and a fourth limiting member. The third limiting member includes at least four limiting grooves. The fourth limiting member is connected to the third limiting member and forms the limiting hole with the limiting grooves. The ceramic insert is placed inside the limiting hole, and the elastic member is sleeved on the outside of the ceramic insert, with both ends abutting against the limiting component and the stop member, respectively.

[0017] Preferably, the ceramic insert has a bayonet adapted to the limiting groove, and the ceramic insert is limited to the limiting hole by the bayonet.

[0018] The present invention also provides a connection assembly comprising at least two or more of the aforementioned fiber optic connectors, wherein the outer frame of one of the fiber optic connectors is the male frame forming a male connector end, and the outer frame of the other fiber optic connector is the female frame forming a female connector end, wherein the male connector end and the female connector end are detachably connected; or comprising two male connector ends and an adapter, wherein the male connector ends are connected to the same adapter.

[0019] The fiber optic connector and connection assembly of the present invention achieve the following technical effects:

[0020] 1. Simplified structure, meeting high-density transmission performance. In the fiber optic connector provided by this invention, the tail sleeve and outer frame surround the outside of the connection mechanism, forming a layered assembly structure. This simplifies installation, improves space utilization, and enables multi-core connections. While miniaturizing space and size, it does not affect fiber optic transmission performance. It reduces assembly difficulty, saves connector production costs, and greatly meets the requirements of data centers. It also reduces the number of connection points during centralized cabling, improving network stability. Furthermore, the layered assembly structure facilitates maintenance and reduces maintenance costs, enabling faster fault handling, quick polarity reversal, and shortening system failure duration, thereby enhancing work efficiency.

[0021] 2. No adapter required. In the fiber optic connector provided by this invention, the outer frame and the tail sleeve are detachably connected, and the outer frame can be either a male or female frame. This fiber optic connector allows for changing the outer frame type as needed, and the detachable connection between the male and female frames enables mating connections between different fiber optic connectors, forming a connection assembly. This design of the outer frame and tail sleeve increases the flexibility of the fiber optic connector, and the elimination of adapter docking further enhances transmission stability and miniaturization. The reduced space occupied by the miniaturized connector improves the cooling efficiency of the computer room, reduces energy consumption, and minimizes the environmental impact caused by energy consumption, making the fiber optic system more environmentally friendly. Attached Figure Description

[0022] Figure 1 This is an exploded view of the fiber optic connector of Embodiment 1 of this application;

[0023] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the fiber optic connector of this application;

[0024] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly structure of the limiting component and the ceramic insert in Embodiment 1 of this application.

[0025] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of the connection mechanism in Embodiment 1 of this application;

[0026] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of the fiber optic connector of Embodiment 1 of this application;

[0027] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the public frame structure of this application;

[0028] Figure 7 This is an exploded view of the mother frame of this application;

[0029] Figure 8 This is an exploded view of the fiber optic connector of Embodiment 2 of this application;

[0030] Figure 9This is a schematic diagram of the limiting component and ceramic ferrule in Embodiment 2 of this application;

[0031] Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view of the connection mechanism in Embodiment 2 of this application;

[0032] Figure 11 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of the connecting mechanism in Embodiment 2 of this application;

[0033] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the connection component in Embodiment 3 of this application;

[0034] Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional view of the connection component of Embodiment 3 of this application;

[0035] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the connection component in Embodiment 4 of this application.

[0036] Figure label:

[0037] 1. Tail cover, 11. Second buckle,

[0038] 2 Outer frame, 21 Second fastening part, 210 Female frame, 211 Fastener, 212 Ceramic sleeve, 213 Guide groove, 214 Female frame body; 220 Male frame, 221 Guide block, 222 Connecting part;

[0039] 3 Connecting mechanism, 31 Stopper, 311 First buckle, 32 Elastic element, 33 Ceramic ferrule, 331 Ferrule tail, 332 Bayonet, 34 Inner frame sleeve, 341 Auxiliary groove, 342 First fastening part, 35 Limiting hole, 36 First limiting element, 361 First limiting part, 362 Second limiting part, 363 Limiting channel, 364 Limiting groove, 37 Second limiting element, 38 Third limiting element, 39 Fourth limiting element;

[0040] 4. Connector; 41. Crimping part; 42. Heat shrinkable part;

[0041] 100 connector male terminal, 200 connector female terminal, 300 adapter. Detailed Implementation

[0042] It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and technical features in the embodiments of this application can be combined with each other, and the detailed descriptions in the specific implementation should be understood as explanations of the purpose of this application and should not be regarded as undue limitations on this application.

[0043] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the specific technical solutions of this application will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the embodiments of this application. The following embodiments are used to illustrate this application, but are not intended to limit the scope of this application.

[0044] In the embodiments of this application, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of indicated technical features. Therefore, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of the embodiments of this application, unless otherwise stated, "multiple" means two or more.

[0045] Furthermore, in the embodiments of this application, directional terms such as "upper," "lower," "left," and "right" are defined relative to the positions in which the components are schematically placed in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that these directional terms are relative concepts, used for relative description and clarification, and can change accordingly depending on the position of the components in the accompanying drawings.

[0046] In the embodiments of this application, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the term "connection" should be interpreted broadly. For example, "connection" can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium.

[0047] In the embodiments of this application, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. Without further limitations, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes that element.

[0048] In the embodiments of this application, the terms "exemplary" or "for example" are used to indicate that something is an example, illustration, or description. Any embodiment or design that is described as "exemplary" or "for example" in the embodiments of this application should not be construed as being more preferred or advantageous than other embodiments or design. Specifically, the use of the terms "exemplary" or "for example" is intended to present the relevant concepts in a specific manner.

[0049] Example 1

[0050] Figure 1 An exploded view of the fiber optic connector in this embodiment is provided. Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the fiber optic connector in this embodiment is provided. Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, this embodiment provides an optical fiber connector, including a tail sleeve 1 and an outer frame 2, which are detachably connected. A connecting mechanism 3 is provided within both the tail sleeve 1 and the outer frame 2. This optical fiber connector can be used for multi-core connections, achieving high-density transmission while maintaining a miniaturized structure.

[0051] Specifically, the connecting mechanism 3 includes a stop 31, a limiting component, several elastic elements 32, several ceramic ferrules 33, and an inner frame 34. The stop 31 and the inner frame 34 are detachably connected and have an internal receiving portion. The limiting component, ceramic ferrules 33, and elastic elements 32 are all located in the receiving portion. The limiting component has several limiting holes 35 through which the ceramic ferrules 33 pass. The elastic elements 32 are sleeved on the outside of the ceramic ferrules 33, allowing the ceramic ferrules 33 to move axially along the direction of the tail sleeve 1 and the outer frame 2 under the action of the elastic elements 32. It should be noted that one end of the receiving portion is a connecting end, and the ceramic ferrules 33 are limited within the receiving portion by the limiting component and partially pass through the connecting end to facilitate connection with other optical fibers.

[0052] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the assembly structure of the limiting component and the ceramic insert 33 in this embodiment is provided. Figure 3 As shown, in this embodiment, the limiting component includes a first limiting member 36 and a second limiting member 37. The first limiting member 36 is used to connect with the stop member 31 and includes a first limiting part 361 and a second limiting part 362 connected to each other. The volume of the first limiting part 361 is generally smaller than that of the second limiting part 362 to facilitate insertion and confinement within the stop member 31. The first limiting part 361 and the second limiting part 362 have a connecting limiting channel 363 on their sides. The limiting channel 363 provides space for the optical fiber to pass through. The front end of the second limiting part 362 has a limiting groove 364 communicating with the limiting channel 363. One end of the ceramic ferrule 33 is confined within the limiting groove 364.

[0053] The other end of the ceramic insert 33 passes through the second limiting member 37, and the elastic members 32 are fitted around the ceramic insert 33. The two ends of the elastic members 32 are limited between the limiting groove 364 and the second limiting member 37. In this embodiment, the elastic member 32 is a spring, which can be a conventional circular spring or a spring of other shapes; no specific limitation is made here. The limiting groove 364 provides guiding and braking functions for the elastic member 32. The second limiting member 37 is provided with several limiting holes 35. The second limiting member 37 is close to the connecting end, and the ceramic insert 33 passes through different limiting holes 35, with a portion exposed at the connecting end. It should be noted that the limiting hole 35 near the elastic member 32 is a non-circular hole, used to limit the rotation of the ceramic insert 33. Further, referring to the reference... Figure 1 ,and Figure 3 The ceramic ferrule 33 is also connected to a ferrule tail 331. The larger end of the ferrule tail 331 is quadrilateral, hexagonal or other polygonal, which can further prevent the ceramic ferrule 33 from rotating, thereby increasing the stability of the structure.

[0054] The number of limiting holes 35, limiting slots 364, and limiting channels 363 is the same as the number of optical fibers to be connected. In this embodiment, the optical fiber connector can be used to connect four optical fibers, and therefore has four limiting holes 35, limiting slots 364, and limiting channels 363. The limiting holes 35 are uniformly distributed in a rectangular shape. Furthermore, to ensure the miniaturization of the optical fiber connector while reducing mutual interference between optical fibers, in this embodiment, the distance between the centers of adjacent limiting holes 35 on the second limiting member 37 is set to L, where L is greater than or equal to 1.6 mm and less than or equal to 3 mm. Correspondingly, the diameter of the ceramic ferrule 33 ranges from 0.7 to 1.25 mm. It is understood that this is not a unique limitation on the dimensions, and those skilled in the art can make corresponding improvements based on this.

[0055] Figure 4 A sectional view of the connecting mechanism 3 is given. (Refer to reference...) Figures 1 to 4 The inner frame sleeve 34 and the stop member 31 are detachably connected, and a receiving portion is formed inside, where a limiting component, an elastic member 32, and a ceramic insert 33 are positioned. In this embodiment, the first limiting member 36 is connected to the stop member 31 and the inner frame sleeve 34, and the second limiting member 37 is located near the connecting end and confined within the inner frame sleeve 34. The stop member 31 has a cavity on its side near the limiting component that is adapted to the size of the first limiting portion 361 of the first limiting member 36, through which the first limiting member 36 is inserted into the stop member 31. At the other end, the second limiting member 37 is adapted to the end of the inner frame sleeve 34 near the connecting end, thereby confining it within the inner frame sleeve 34. In this embodiment, the end of the second limiting member 37 near the connection end has an approximate trapezoidal structure, which is adapted to the structure of the inner frame sleeve 34. Therefore, when the inner frame sleeve 34 and the stop member 31 are connected, the limiting component and the ceramic ferrule 33 can be tightly limited at the receiving portion. It should be noted that the end of the ceramic ferrule 33 near the connection end passes through the second limiting member 37 and the inner frame sleeve 34, and is exposed at the connection end to facilitate subsequent connection with other optical fibers.

[0056] In this embodiment, the inner frame sleeve 34 is fastened to the stop member 31. The outer wall of the stop member 31 has a first buckle 311, and the side wall of the inner frame sleeve 34 has a first fastening portion 342. The stop member 31 and the inner frame sleeve 34 are fastened together by the first buckle 311 and the first fastening portion 342. Of course, in some embodiments, the fastening connection is achieved by the stop member 31 having a first fastening portion 342 and the inner frame sleeve 34 having a first buckle 311; this is not the only limitation. The first fastening portion 342 is a hollow hole, and the first buckle 311 engages with the hollow hole. This structure facilitates installation and disassembly, and aids in subsequent maintenance.

[0057] In particular, returning Figure 1To facilitate the insertion and fastening of the stop 31 into the inner frame sleeve 34, an auxiliary groove 341 is provided on the side wall of the inner frame sleeve 34. The auxiliary groove 341 is recessed inward from the end of the inner frame sleeve 34 near the stop 31 and extends along the direction of the stop 31 and the inner frame sleeve 34, so that the inner frame sleeve 34 can be smoothly fastened to the stop 31.

[0058] Furthermore, the fiber optic connector provided in this embodiment also includes a connector 4, which has an overall approximately tubular structure and is used to connect the tail sleeve 1 and the stop member 31. It includes a crimping portion 41 and a heat-shrinkable portion 42. The crimping portion 41 is used to crimp and fix the aramid fiber of the optical cable, and the heat-shrinkable portion 42 is used to tighten the optical cable sheath. The stop member 31 has a connecting post on the side away from the limiting component. The crimping portion 41 of the connector 4 is connected to the connecting post, serving to connect the optical cable and the fiber optic connector, and providing a seal.

[0059] Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of the fiber optic connector of this embodiment is provided. (Refer to reference...) Figure 1 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 The tail sleeve 1 and the outer frame 2 are detachably connected, and after the tail sleeve 1 and the outer frame 2 are assembled, the connecting mechanism 3 and the connecting piece 4 are confined inside. In this embodiment, the tail sleeve 1 and the outer frame 2 are fastened together. The outer frame 2 is provided with a second buckle 11, and the tail sleeve 1 is provided with a second fastening part 21. The outer frame 2 and the tail sleeve 1 are fastened together through a second snap 332 and a second fastening part 21. The second buckle 11 is formed by the tail sleeve 1 extending towards the outer frame 2, and the second fastening part 21 is a fastening groove adapted to the second buckle 11, provided on the side wall of the outer frame 2. Of course, in some embodiments, assembly is achieved by the outer frame 2 being provided with a second fastening part 21 and the tail sleeve 1 being provided with a second buckle 11. This is not the only limitation. Figure 4 As shown, the end of the tail sleeve 1 away from the outer frame 2 is provided with an outer sleeve for limiting the optical cable, and the compression part of the connector 4 is located inside the outer sleeve.

[0060] Specifically, the outer frame 2 can be either the female frame 210 or the male frame 220. Figure 6 and Figure 7 Schematic diagrams of the male frame 220 and exploded views of the female frame are provided. Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, both the male frame 220 and the female frame 210 are provided with a second fastening part 21 for engaging with the tail sleeve 1. The male frame 220 and the female frame 210 can be connected to each other at the end away from the second fastening part 21 by a plug-in, locking, or other detachable structure. For example... Figure 2 As shown, in this embodiment, the outer frame 2 is the male frame 220.

[0061] Reference Figures 1 to 5In the fiber optic connector provided in this embodiment, the tail sleeve 1 and the outer frame 2 are located on the outermost layer of the fiber optic connector. Inside, a connecting mechanism 3 and a connector 4 form a nested assembly structure, making full use of space and improving space utilization. It can be used for four-core connections, achieving high-density transmission performance without compromising fiber optic transmission performance while miniaturizing space and size. This reduces the number of splices during centralized cabling, improving network stability. Simultaneously, the nested assembly structure further enhances the sealing of the internal optical fibers, reducing the impact of dust and other debris on the fiber optic connection.

[0062] Furthermore, the fiber optic connector provided in this embodiment is easy to maintain. In this embodiment, since the connection between the tail sleeve 1 and the outer frame 2, as well as between the stop 31 and the inner frame sleeve 34, are detachable, the fiber optic connector can be quickly disassembled during installation or use, allowing for timely troubleshooting, shortening the duration of system failures, and enhancing work efficiency.

[0063] For example, if the product optical cable is connected to the terminal optical fiber through an optical fiber connector, and the optical fibers of the product optical cable and the terminal optical fiber are centrally symmetrical and therefore cannot be connected one-to-one, the tail sleeve 1 and the outer frame 2 can be unlocked, and the internal connection mechanism 3 can be rotated 180° until the optical fibers of the product optical cable and the terminal optical fiber correspond one-to-one. Then, the tail sleeve 1, the outer frame 2 and the connection mechanism 3 can be reinstalled to achieve the connection between the optical fiber connector and the terminal optical fiber.

[0064] If the optical fibers cannot be adjusted to a one-to-one correspondence, the inner frame 34 and the stop 31 can be further unlocked, and then the ceramic ferrule 33 can be disassembled from the second limiting member 37 and the first limiting member 36 in sequence. First, move the second limiting member 37 away from the first limiting member 36 until the ceramic ferrule 33 disengages from the second limiting member 37. Then, move each ceramic ferrule 33 towards the side wall of the first limiting member 36. It should be noted that the limiting channel 363 and the limiting groove 364 are both connected to the side wall of the first limiting member 36. Therefore, after the ceramic ferrule 33 disengages from the second limiting member 37, it is then moved along the direction of the side wall of the first limiting member 36 it approaches to completely disengage from the first limiting member 36. At this point, the positions of the ceramic ferrules 33 and their corresponding optical fibers can be adjusted one by one according to requirements, and the optical fiber connectors can be reassembled to facilitate the connection between different optical cables.

[0065] The fiber optic connector provided in this embodiment is miniaturized, allowing for the installation of 396 optical fibers within a 1U chassis with a width of 440mm, significantly increasing data transmission density. Due to its miniaturization, the connector occupies less space, thereby improving data center cooling efficiency, reducing energy consumption, and minimizing the environmental impact of energy consumption, making the fiber optic system more environmentally friendly.

[0066] Example 2

[0067] The fiber optic connector in this embodiment is the same as the fiber optic connector in Embodiment 1. However, based on Embodiment 1, another implementation of the connection mechanism 3 is proposed. For the similarities between this embodiment and Embodiment 1, please refer to Embodiment 1. The differences will be further explained below.

[0068] Figure 8 A schematic diagram of the fiber optic connector in this embodiment is provided. Figure 9 A schematic diagram of another limiting component and ceramic ferrule 33 is given. Figure 10 A cross-sectional view of another connecting mechanism 3 is given. Figure 11 This is a partial structural diagram of the connecting mechanism 3 in this embodiment. (Reference) Figures 8 to 11 In this embodiment, the limiting component includes a third limiting member 38 and a fourth limiting member 39. The third limiting member 38 is a plate-like structure with four symmetrically arranged limiting grooves 364, formed by inward indentation of the sidewall of the third limiting member 38. The fourth limiting member 39 is an open-type annular structure, U-shaped, that adapts to the outer wall of the third limiting member 38. In this embodiment, the fourth limiting member 39 and the third limiting member 38 are arranged side-by-side. The third limiting member 38 limits the ceramic insert 33 vertically through the limiting grooves 364, while the fourth limiting member 39 limits the ceramic insert 33 horizontally. Therefore, the fourth limiting member 39 and the sidewall portion of the limiting groove 364 form a limiting hole 35.

[0069] In this embodiment, the opening size of the inner frame sleeve 34 at the connecting end is smaller than that of the third limiting member 38. Therefore, the third limiting member 38 and the fourth limiting member 39 are located inside the inner frame sleeve 34 near the connecting end and cannot be detached from the inner frame sleeve 34. The ceramic insert 33 passes through the limiting hole 35, with one end exposed at the connecting end. The ceramic insert 33 is provided with an insert tail 331, and the larger end of the insert tail 331 abuts against the side of the limiting hole 35 within the receiving portion. No specific limitations are made regarding the structure of the larger end of the insert tail 331 here.

[0070] like Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, the elastic element 32 is sleeved around all the ceramic ferrules 33. In this embodiment, the elastic element 32 is a square spring to facilitate contact with the stop element 31. One end of the elastic element 32 abuts against the inner side of the limiting component, and the other end abuts against the inner side of the stop element 31. Correspondingly, the end of the stop element 31 near the limiting component should have an abutment wall to facilitate contact with the elastic element 32, and also a channel to facilitate the passage of optical fibers.

[0071] Key references Figure 11To prevent the ceramic insert 33 from rotating and causing structural instability, the ceramic insert 33 is also provided with a latch 332 that matches the limiting groove 364. The third limiting member 38 partially engages with the latch 332 in the limiting groove 364, thereby restricting the rotation of the ceramic insert 33. Under the action of the third limiting member 38 and the fourth limiting member 39, several ceramic inserts 33 are fixed as a whole and confined in the receiving part.

[0072] Similar to the fiber optic connector in Embodiment 1, the fiber optic connector in this embodiment also features easy disassembly and maintenance. After unlocking the tail sleeve 1 and outer frame 2, the connecting mechanism 3 is rotated to achieve polarity reversal. Alternatively, the inner frame sleeve 34 and stop 31 can be unlocked to adjust the position of the ceramic ferrule 33. Specifically, after unlocking the inner frame sleeve 34 and stop 31, since the third limiting member 38 is close to the connecting end, the ceramic ferrule 33 is first moved towards the side wall of the adjacent third limiting member 38, causing the ceramic ferrule 33 to disengage from the third limiting member 38, releasing the latch 332 from the third limiting member 38. Then, the fourth limiting member 39 is moved away from the opening, removing the fourth limiting member 39 from the ceramic ferrule 33. Afterwards, the ceramic ferrule 33 is repositioned as needed and reassembled with the limiting components and other structures to form the fiber optic connector 4.

[0073] Compared with Embodiment 1, the structure of the limiting component in this embodiment is different. The limiting component in this embodiment has a more streamlined and compact structure, which effectively reduces the mating space.

[0074] Example 3

[0075] Figure 12 and Figure 13 Schematic diagrams and cross-sectional views of the connection assembly are provided. This embodiment provides a connection assembly including two fiber optic connectors. The outer frame 2 of one fiber optic connector is a female frame 210, forming a female connector end 200. The outer frame 2 of the other fiber optic connector is a male frame 220, forming a male connector end 100. The male connector end 100 and the female connector end 200 are detachably connected without the need for an additional adapter 300, further increasing the miniaturization of the fiber optic connector and enhancing installation flexibility.

[0076] For details, please refer to Figure 7 The female frame 210 includes a female frame body 214 and a plurality of ceramic sleeves 212 for connecting to the ceramic ferrule 33. The female frame body 214 is connected to a fastener 211 for connecting to the male frame 220. In this embodiment, the male end 100 of the connector is fastened to the female end 200 of the connector, therefore the fastener 211 is a snap-fit.

[0077] Please see Figure 6 , Figure 12 and Figure 13 The outer frame 2 of the male frame 220 has a connecting portion 222 for engaging at the connecting end. The connecting portion 222 is approximately trapezoidal in shape, wider at the front and narrower at the rear. The fixing member 211 is adapted to the connecting portion 222, and has locking arms on both sides for engaging at the narrow part of the connecting portion 222. The locking arms of the fixing member 211 are elastic. As the side of the connector male end 100 where the connecting portion 222 is located is inserted into the connector female end 200, the connecting portion 222 and the fixing member 211 engage, limiting the connector male end 100 and preventing it from easily disengaging. At the same time, the ceramic sleeve 212 is used to connect the ceramic ferrules 33 of different fiber optic connectors, ensuring that the ceramic ferrules 33 of different fiber optic connectors are coaxial and connected one by one.

[0078] Furthermore, in this embodiment, to facilitate the mating connection of the male connector 100 and the female connector 200, the female frame 210 is also provided with a guide groove 213 on the side where the connection end is located. The guide groove 213 extends inward from the edge of the female frame 210 along the mating direction of the female frame 210 and the male frame 220. The male frame 220 is provided with a guide block 221 that matches the guide groove 213. When the male connector 100 and the female connector 200 are mated, the guide groove 213 and the guide block 221 can serve as a foolproof design, making the mating connection process smoother, visualizing the mating effect, and ensuring stable mating.

[0079] It should be noted that this is not a limitation on the structure of the fastener 211. In some embodiments, the fastener 211 can also be integrally formed with the mother frame 210.

[0080] Example 4

[0081] This embodiment provides another connection component. Figure 14 A schematic diagram of the connection assembly in this embodiment is provided, including two male connector terminals 100 and an adapter 300. The adapter 300 has a similar structure to the female frame 210, including a ceramic sleeve 212 and a fastener 211. The difference is that both ends of the adapter 300 are connection ends, both of which can be used to connect to the male connector terminals 100.

[0082] In this embodiment, the male end 100 of the connector is respectively inserted into both ends of the adapter 300 and connected through the adapter 300 to form a connection assembly.

[0083] In summary, the fiber optic connector provided by this invention is also versatile, allowing for the selection of connection methods between fiber optic connectors according to requirements, thus possessing universality.

[0084] The sequence numbers of the embodiments in this application are for descriptive purposes only and do not represent the superiority or inferiority of the embodiments. The above are merely preferred embodiments of this application and do not limit the patent scope of this application. Any equivalent structural or procedural transformations made based on the content of this application's specification and drawings, or direct or indirect applications in other related technical fields, are similarly included within the patent protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A fiber optic connector for connecting optical fibers, characterized in that, It includes a detachable tail sleeve (1) and an outer frame (2), and has a connecting mechanism (3) inside, with the outer frame (2) being the connecting end; The connecting mechanism (3) includes a stop (31), a limiting component, several elastic elements (32), several ceramic inserts (33) and an inner frame (34). The stop (31) and the inner frame (34) are detachably connected and have a receiving portion inside. The ceramic insert (33) and the elastic element (32) are limited within the receiving portion by the limiting component. The limiting component is provided with at least four limiting holes (35). The ceramic insert (33) passes through the limiting holes (35) and is partially exposed at the connecting end. The elastic element (32) is sleeved around the ceramic insert (33). The outer frame (2) is either a male frame (220) or a female frame (210), and the male frame (220) and the female frame (210) are detachably connected at the connection end; The limiting component includes a first limiting member (36) and a second limiting member (37). The first limiting member (36) includes at least four limiting grooves (364), and the second limiting member (37) includes at least four limiting holes (35). One end of the ceramic insert (33) is connected to the limiting groove (364), and the other end passes through the limiting hole (35) and protrudes from the connecting end. The elastic members (32) are fitted onto the ceramic insert (33), and both ends abut against the first limiting member (36) and the second limiting member (37) respectively. The volume of the first limiting part (361) is smaller than that of the second limiting part (362) so that the first limiting part (361) can be inserted and limited within the stop member (31). The first limiting part (361) and the second limiting part (362) are provided with a connecting limiting channel (363) on their sides. The limiting channel (363) is used for the space of the optical fiber. The front end of the second limiting part (362) is provided with a limiting groove (364) that communicates with the limiting channel (363). One end of the ceramic ferrule (33) is limited in the limiting groove (364), and the other end of the ceramic ferrule (33) passes through the second limiting member (37).

2. The fiber optic connector according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a connector (4), which includes a crimping part (41) and a heat shrinking part (42) for fixing the optical cable. The crimping part (41) is connected to the stop (31), and the heat shrinking part (42) is connected to the tail sleeve (1).

3. The fiber optic connector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The stop (31) is provided with a first buckle (311), and the inner frame sleeve (34) is provided with a first fastening part (342), or the stop (31) is provided with a first fastening part (342), and the inner frame sleeve (34) is provided with a first buckle (311). The stop (31) and the inner frame sleeve (34) are connected by the first buckle (311) and the first fastening part (342).

4. The fiber optic connector according to claim 3, characterized in that, The inner frame sleeve (34) is also provided with an auxiliary groove (341) on its side wall.

5. The fiber optic connector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outer frame (2) is provided with a second buckle (11), and the tail sleeve (1) is provided with a second fastening part (21), or the outer frame (2) is provided with a second fastening part (21), and the tail sleeve (1) is provided with a second latch (332). The outer frame (2) and the tail sleeve (1) are connected by the second latch (332) and the second fastening part (21).

6. The fiber optic connector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The male frame (220) is inserted into the female frame (210) and fastened together.

7. The fiber optic connector according to claim 6, characterized in that, The mother frame (210) includes a mother frame body (214), the mother frame (210) body is connected to a fastener (211) for fastening and connecting with the male frame (220) and a plurality of ceramic sleeves (212) for connecting with the ceramic insert (33).

8. The fiber optic connector according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, The limiting component includes a third limiting member (38) and a fourth limiting member (39). The third limiting member (38) includes at least four limiting grooves (364). The fourth limiting member (39) is connected to the third limiting member (38) and forms the limiting hole (35) with the limiting grooves (364). The ceramic ferrule (33) passes through the limiting hole (35). The elastic member (32) is sleeved on the outside of the ceramic ferrule (33), and its two ends abut against the limiting component and the stop member (31) respectively.

9. The fiber optic connector according to claim 8, characterized in that, The ceramic insert (33) is provided with a bayonet (332) that is adapted to the limiting groove (364), and the ceramic insert (33) is limited to the limiting hole (35) through the bayonet (332).

10. A connecting component, characterized in that, The fiber optic connector includes at least two fiber optic connectors as described in any one of claims 1-9, wherein the outer frame (2) of one fiber optic connector is the male frame (220) forming a male connector end (100), and the outer frame (2) of the other fiber optic connector is the female frame (210) forming a female connector end (200), wherein the male connector end (100) and the female connector end (200) are detachably connected; or the connector includes two male connector ends (100) and an adapter (300), wherein the male connector ends (100) are connected to the same adapter (300).

Citation Information

Patent Citations

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