Optical fiber cable with optical connector, method of manufacturing optical fiber cable with optical connector, optical connector

Abstract

Provided is an optical fiber cable with an optical connector. The optical fiber cable with an optical connector includes an optical fiber cable (1) and an optical connector (2). The optical connector (2) includes an optical connector plug (3) having a ferrule (33) protruding from a front end side and a cylindrical portion (31) protruding from a distal end side; a crimping member (5) for crimping and fixing the optical fiber cable (1) to the optical connector plug (3); and a cylindrical member (4) interposed between the cylindrical portion (31) and the crimping member (5). The cylindrical member (4) is installed on the cylindrical portion (31) in such a manner that an inner peripheral surface of the cylindrical member (4) is in contact with an outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion (31). The crimping member (5) is cylindrical, and at least a portion of an inner peripheral surface of the crimping member (5) sandwiches a tensile body (13) of the optical fiber cable (1) and is crimped to at least a portion of an outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical member (4) at a first position (P1) in an axial direction at which the inner peripheral surface of the cylindrical member (4) is in contact with the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion (31). At least a portion of the inner peripheral surface of the crimping member (5) is crimped to an outer skin (14) of the optical fiber cable (1) at a second position (P2) in the axial direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an optical fiber cable with an optical connector, a method for manufacturing the optical fiber cable with an optical connector, and an optical connector. Background Technology

[0002] Previously, as a method for mounting optical connectors on optical fiber cables, a method of crimping and fixing is known by clamping a tensile strength body built into the optical fiber cable between the cylindrical part of the optical connector plug and the crimping ring (rivet ring).

[0003] For example, Japanese Patent No. 5281959 describes an optical fiber cable with an optical connector in which a tension-resistant body is disposed between the stop ring and the rivet ring after the stop ring and the plug frame, which are cylindrical optical connectors, are fitted together, and the stop ring and the rivet ring are riveted (pressed together).

[0004] However, standard optical connectors are designed to be installed on fiber optic cables with an outer diameter of 3mm or less, but it is necessary to install them on fiber optic cables with a larger outer diameter. For example, sometimes it is desirable to install standard LC type connectors on fiber optic cables with an outer diameter of 4mm to 6mm, which are commonly used outdoors. There are roughly two methods to install standard optical connectors on fiber optic cables with a larger outer diameter.

[0005] The first method involves preparing a dedicated optical connector plug that mates with a crimping ring of a larger diameter corresponding to the fiber optic cable, increasing the cylindrical portion of the optical connector plug to near the inner diameter of the crimping ring. However, this first method requires a dedicated optical connector plug, thus increasing costs.

[0006] The second method involves reducing the diameter of the inner surface of the crimp ring's optical connector plug side to mate with the cylindrical portion of a standard optical connector plug. However, in this second method, the front end of the crimp ring is mated with the cylindrical portion of a standard optical connector plug to reduce the diameter, while the end end of the crimp ring mates with the large diameter of the fiber optic cable. Therefore, the crimp ring becomes a specialized product with two different diameters.

[0007] Furthermore, this results in a longer overall length for the optical connector. Specifically, a gap is required between the cylindrical portion and the crimping ring to secure the sleeve to the optical fiber and to pull the tensile strength of the fiber optic cable into the cylindrical portion of the connector plug. Additionally, to press the crimping ring onto the cylindrical portion, the large-diameter side of the crimping ring needs a length that allows it to slide axially towards the front end relative to the fiber optic cable. Consequently, the axial length of the small-diameter side of the crimping ring needs to be at least the width of the crimping tool. Therefore, a longer axially oriented crimping ring is required, resulting in a longer overall length for the optical connector. Summary of the Invention

[0008] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to install optical fiber cables with a larger outer diameter than standard-sized optical connector plugs, and to suppress the overall length of the optical connector.

[0009] The first aspect of this invention is an optical fiber cable with an optical connector, comprising an optical fiber cable and an optical connector.

[0010] The optical fiber cable has: an optical fiber; a cover covering the optical fiber; a tensile body disposed around the cover; and an outer sheath housing the optical fiber, the cover, and the tensile body.

[0011] The optical connector comprises: an optical connector plug having: a sleeve configured to protrude from a front end side and forming an insertion hole for the optical fiber; a cylindrical portion configured to protrude from an end side opposite to the front end side; a crimping member for crimping and securing the optical fiber cable to the optical connector plug; and a cylindrical member located between the cylindrical portion and the crimping member.

[0012] The cylindrical component is mounted on the cylindrical portion in such a manner that the inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical component contacts the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion.

[0013] The crimping component is cylindrical. At the first axial position, where the inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical component contacts the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion, at least a portion of the inner circumferential surface of the crimping component clamps the tensile body of the optical fiber cable and crimps it onto at least a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical component. At the second axial position, at least a portion of the inner circumferential surface of the crimping component crimps it onto the outer sheath of the optical fiber cable.

[0014] A second aspect of the present invention is a method for manufacturing an optical fiber cable with an optical connector, comprising the following steps:

[0015] The process of inserting a cylindrical crimping component into an optical fiber cable;

[0016] The process of removing the outer sheath of the optical fiber cable to expose the cover covering the optical fiber and the tensile body disposed around the cover.

[0017] The process of installing the cylindrical component onto the cylindrical part in such a way that the inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical component contacts the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical part provided on the optical connector plug;

[0018] The process of removing the cover at the front end of the optical fiber cable to expose the optical fiber;

[0019] The process of bonding and fixing the exposed optical fiber to the sleeve of the optical connector plug;

[0020] The crimping member is slid axially to a first axial position where the inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical member contacts the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion; at least a portion of the inner circumferential surface of the crimping member clamps the tensile body of the optical fiber cable and crimps it onto at least a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical member; and a first crimping process is performed whereby the crimping member slides axially to a first axial position where the inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical member contacts the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical member; and

[0021] In a second axial position, a second crimping process is performed in which at least a portion of the inner circumferential surface of the crimping component is crimped onto the outer sheath of the optical fiber cable.

[0022] A third aspect of the present invention is an optical connector mounted on an optical fiber cable, comprising: an optical connector plug having: a sleeve configured to protrude from a front end side and forming an insertion hole for an optical fiber; and a cylindrical portion configured to protrude from an end side opposite to the front end side; a crimping component; and a cylindrical component.

[0023] The cylindrical component is mounted on the cylindrical portion such that at least a portion of its inner circumferential surface contacts at least a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion.

[0024] The crimping component is cylindrical. At the position where the inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical component contacts the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion, which is the first axial position of the crimping component, the crimping component is disposed at a position where at least a portion of the inner circumferential surface of the crimping component clamps the tensile body of the optical fiber cable and can be crimped onto at least a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical component. At the second axial position of the crimping component, the crimping component is disposed at a position where at least a portion of the inner circumferential surface of the crimping component can be crimped onto the outer sheath of the optical fiber cable.

[0025] Invention Effects

[0026] According to one aspect of the present invention, it is possible to install optical fiber cables with a larger outer diameter relative to standard-sized optical connector plugs, and to suppress the full length of the optical connector. Attached Figure Description

[0027] Figure 1A This is a perspective view of an optical fiber cable with an optical connector according to one embodiment.

[0028] Figure 1B This is a side view of an optical fiber cable with an optical connector according to one embodiment.

[0029] Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view of an optical fiber cable with an optical connector according to one embodiment.

[0030] Figure 3This is a cross-sectional view of an optical fiber cable with an optical connector according to one embodiment.

[0031] Figure 4 This is a diagram showing the components of an optical connector plug according to one embodiment.

[0032] Figure 5 It is a cross-sectional view of the cylindrical part, the crimping ring, and the cylindrical component.

[0033] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of the cylindrical component involved in the variation example.

[0034] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view of the cylindrical component involved in the variation example.

[0035] Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating a method for manufacturing an optical fiber cable with an optical connector according to one embodiment.

[0036] Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating a method for manufacturing an optical fiber cable with an optical connector according to one embodiment.

[0037] Figure 10 This is a diagram illustrating a method for manufacturing an optical fiber cable with an optical connector according to one embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0038] Hereinafter, an optical connector and an optical fiber cable with an optical connector according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0039] Figure 1A and Figure 1B The images show a perspective view and a side view of an optical fiber cable with an optical connector according to one embodiment. Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view of an optical fiber cable with an optical connector according to one embodiment. Figure 3 Is with Figure 1B The side view corresponds to the cross-sectional view of the fiber optic cable with the optical connector.

[0040] like Figure 1A and Figure 1B As shown, the optical fiber cable with an optical connector includes an optical fiber cable 1 and an optical connector 2.

[0041] like Figure 3 As shown, the optical fiber cable 1 has an optical fiber 11, a core wire 12, a tensile body 13, and an outer sheath 14.

[0042] The optical fiber 11 includes a core and a cladding surrounding the core. By making the refractive index of the core higher than that of the cladding, it forms a structure that allows light to propagate towards the core at its center. Preferably, both the core and the cladding are made of quartz glass or plastic, which have high light transmittance.

[0043] The core wire 12 is arranged around the optical fiber 11 to protect the optical fiber 11. Although the material of the core wire 12 is not limited, it can be, for example, silicone resin, nylon resin, elastomer, UV-cured resin, etc.

[0044] The tensile strength 13 is designed to mitigate the tension generated on the optical fiber 11 covered by the core wire 12 when the optical fiber cable 1 is stretched or bent, thereby preventing damage to the optical fiber 11. The material of the tensile strength 13 is not limited, but examples include aramid fibers such as Kevlar (registered trademark), aramid fiber reinforced plastic (AFRP), glass fiber, glass fiber reinforced plastic (GFRP), polyethylene fiber, and polyethylene fiber reinforced plastic.

[0045] To protect the optical fiber 11 and the tensile strength 13 covered by the core wire 12, an outer sheath 14 is disposed on the outside of the tensile strength 13. The material of the outer sheath 14 is not limited, but may be, for example, vinyl chloride resin, an elastomer, etc. The outer diameter of the outer sheath 14 is larger than the cylindrical portion 31 of the optical connector plug 3, for example, φ4mm to 6mm.

[0046] Reference Figure 2 The optical connector 2 has an optical connector plug 3, a cylindrical component 4, a crimping ring 5, and a protective cover 6.

[0047] Optical connector plug 3 in Figure 2 The example shown is a connector plug corresponding to an LC type connector, but it is not limited to this and can also be a connector plug corresponding to other types of connectors such as SC connectors. A sleeve (ferrule) 33 is provided on the front end side of the optical connector plug 3, and a cylindrical part 31 is provided on the end side of the optical connector plug 3. In the case of a standard LC type connector, the outer diameter of the cylindrical part 31 is φ3.05mm.

[0048] Furthermore, in this invention, such as Figure 2 As shown, the protruding side of the sleeve 33 is defined as the front end side, and its opposite side is defined as the end side to illustrate the constituent parts, but this is only for the purpose of explanation.

[0049] The crimping ring 5 is an example of a crimping component used to crimp and fix (rivet) the fiber optic cable 1 to the optical connector plug 3, and it has a cylindrical shape. For example... Figure 3 As shown, the cylindrical portion 31 of the optical connector plug 3 and the cylindrical component 4 are accommodated at the front end of the crimping ring 5, and the outer sheath 14 of the optical fiber cable 1 is accommodated at the rear end of the crimping ring 5. Therefore, the inner diameter of the crimping ring 5 is slightly larger than the outer diameter of the outer sheath 14 of the optical fiber cable 1. The length of the crimping ring 5 is preferably in the range of 5 mm to 20 mm, more preferably 8 mm to 17 mm.

[0050] On the outer peripheral surface of the crimping ring 5, there is a locking groove 53 for preventing the protective cover 6 from falling off.

[0051] Since the inner diameter of the crimping ring 5 is set to match the outer diameter of the outer sheath 14 of the fiber optic cable 1, the difference between it and the outer diameter of the cylindrical portion 31 of the optical connector plug 3 is relatively large. Therefore, in one embodiment, the optical connector 2 has a cylindrical component 4 located between the cylindrical portion 31 of the optical connector plug 3 and the crimping ring 5.

[0052] The cylindrical component 4 is mounted on the cylindrical portion 31 such that its inner circumferential surface contacts the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion 31. The outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical component 4 is set to be slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the crimping ring 5. That is, the cylindrical component 4 is configured to absorb the difference between the inner diameter of the crimping ring 5 and the outer diameter of the cylindrical portion 31.

[0053] In order to accommodate the tensile strength 13 protruding from the optical fiber cable 1 between the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical component 4 and the inner peripheral surface of the crimping ring 5, it is preferable that the outer diameter of the cylindrical component 4 is smaller than the inner diameter of the crimping ring 5 by an amount corresponding to the thickness of the tensile strength 13. The difference between the outer diameter of the cylindrical component 4 and the inner diameter of the crimping ring 5 is preferably 0.1 mm to 1 mm, more preferably 0.1 mm to 0.5 mm.

[0054] The method of mounting the cylindrical component 4 relative to the cylindrical portion 31 is not limited, but it is preferable to mount it by crimping. That is, as described below, the cylindrical component 4 is temporarily fixed to the cylindrical portion 31 by crimping. However, it is not limited to this, and it can also be mounted by pressing the cylindrical component 4 into the cylindrical portion 31.

[0055] exist Figure 3 In order to fix the fiber optic cable 1 to the optical connector plug 3, at the first axial position P1, at least a portion of the inner circumferential surface of the crimping ring 5 clamps the tensile body 13 of the fiber optic cable 1 and crimps it onto at least a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical component 4. At the second axial position P2 of the crimping ring 5, at least a portion of the inner circumferential surface is crimped onto the outer sheath 14 of the fiber optic cable 1. Additionally, in... Figure 3 The deformation of the crimping ring 5, the cylindrical component 4, and the cylindrical portion 31 of the optical connector plug 3 caused by crimping is not considered.

[0056] The protective cover 6 is configured to cover part of the crimping ring 5 and the fiber optic cable 1, protecting the crimped portion of the crimping ring 5 and the fiber optic cable 1 from foreign objects, water droplets, etc.

[0057] Figure 4 This is an exploded view of the optical connector plug 3. (See diagram below.) Figure 4 As shown, the optical connector plug 3 includes a sleeve 33, a helical spring 34, and a tube 36.

[0058] The optical connector plug 3 has a plug housing 35 to accommodate the sleeve 33, the coil spring 34, and the tube 36. The plug housing 35 is composed of a first housing portion 35A and a second housing portion 35B made of resin. The first housing portion 35A and the second housing portion 35B are connected, for example, by a snap-fit ​​engagement. A cylindrical portion 31 is fixed to the second housing portion 35B. The second housing portion 35B is manufactured by inserting a metal tube, which corresponds to the cylindrical portion 31, as an insert component.

[0059] In the case of an LC type connector, the outer diameter of the sleeve body 333 at the front end of the sleeve 33 is φ1.249mm, and a through hole is formed for the optical fiber 11 to pass through the optical fiber cable 1.

[0060] After the adhesive is injected into the through-hole, the optical fiber 11 is fixed by insertion and heating. The adhesive is, for example, a thermosetting adhesive, preferably an epoxy adhesive or an acrylic adhesive.

[0061] The front end of the helical spring 34 is supported by the flange portion 332 of the sleeve 33, and the end is supported by a surface (not shown) of the second housing portion 35B, which applies force to the sleeve 33 towards the front end.

[0062] The tube 36 is formed of a flexible resin such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) and is installed at the end portion 331 of the sleeve 33. The tube 36 is configured such that the flange portion 332 of the sleeve 33 extends toward the cylindrical portion 31.

[0063] Next, refer to Figure 5 The cross-section and fixing method of the cylindrical part 31, cylindrical component 4, and crimping ring 5 of the optical connector plug 3 are described.

[0064] exist Figure 5 In this configuration, the inner diameter D2 of the cylindrical component 4 is slightly larger than the outer diameter D1 of the cylindrical portion 31 of the optical connector plug 3. The cylindrical component 4 is mounted on the cylindrical portion 31 in such a way that the inner circumferential surface 42 of the cylindrical component 4 contacts the outer circumferential surface 311 of the cylindrical portion 31. Preferably, after mounting the cylindrical component 4 on the cylindrical portion 31, a crimping tool is used to crimp the outer circumferential surface 41 of the cylindrical component 4, temporarily fixing the cylindrical component 4 to a degree that prevents it from falling off the cylindrical portion 31 or shifting axially.

[0065] exist Figure 5 In this configuration, the inner diameter D4 of the crimping ring 5 is slightly larger than the outer diameter D3 of the cylindrical component 4. The crimping ring 5 is mounted on the cylindrical component 4 such that the tensile strength body 13 of the optical fiber cable 1 is clamped between the outer circumferential surface 41 of the cylindrical component 4 mounted on the cylindrical portion 31 and the inner circumferential surface 52 of the crimping ring 5, and the outer circumferential surface 51 of the crimping ring 5 is crimped. Thus, the crimping ring 5 is fixed to the cylindrical component 4.

[0066] The crimping tool used for crimping the cylindrical component 4 and the crimping tool used for crimping the crimping ring 5 are not limited, but are tools that clamp the parts to be crimped from both sides. The shape of the crimping hole formed by the crimping tool during clamping is not limited, but is, for example, circular, preferably hexagonal or other polygonal shapes.

[0067] When the shape of the crimping hole is polygonal, the inner circumferential surface 52 of the crimping ring 5 is crimped at equal intervals on multiple locations on the outer circumferential surface 41 of the cylindrical component 4 in the circumferential direction, which can further improve the holding force against the torque applied in the rotational direction of the optical fiber cable 1.

[0068] In one implementation, such as Figure 5 As shown, a protrusion 43 (an example of a first protrusion) is formed protruding outward from the outer peripheral surface 41 near the center of the cylindrical member 4 in the axial direction. Although the protrusion 43 is not necessary, by forming this protrusion 43, when the cylindrical member 4 is pressed (temporarily fixed) to the cylindrical portion 31, the stress relative to the outer peripheral surface 311 of the cylindrical portion 31 can be increased at the position of the inner peripheral surface 42 of the cylindrical member 4 corresponding to the protrusion 43, thereby increasing the pressing force between the cylindrical portion 31 and the cylindrical member 4. After the cylindrical member 4 is pressed onto the cylindrical portion 31, the inner peripheral surface 312 of the cylindrical portion 31 slightly flexes inward at the position corresponding to the protrusion 43.

[0069] Protrusion 43 on cylindrical component 4 also helps to increase the pressing force of crimping ring 5 relative to cylindrical component 4. That is, when the outer peripheral surface 51 of crimping ring 5 is crimped, crimping ring 5 is firmly fixed to cylindrical component 4 because protrusion 43 is formed on cylindrical component 4. At this time, at the position corresponding to protrusion 43, inner peripheral surface 312 of cylindrical portion 31 further flexes inward, deforming in a way that reduces the outer diameter.

[0070] By crimping the crimping ring 5, the tensile body 13 is firmly supported between the surface of the protrusion 43 and the inner circumferential surface 52 of the crimping ring 5, thus further improving the pull-out force of the fiber optic cable 1 from the optical connector plug 3.

[0071] Figure 5 The shown cylindrical component 4 has a protrusion 43 that is an example of a first protrusion projecting outward from the outer periphery, but the first protrusion can also be achieved through other shapes. Figure 6 Among them, cylindrical components 4A, 4B, and 4C are shown as examples of cylindrical components with protrusions that protrude outward from the outer periphery.

[0072] exist Figure 6 In the middle, the inner diameter D2 of the cylindrical component 4A is... Figure 5The cylindrical component 4 is identical to the cylindrical component 31, but its outer peripheral surface 41A is tapered. The outer diameter of the front end of the cylindrical component 4A is DA (>D3), and the outer diameter of the end end is D3. The outer peripheral surface 41A is tapered from the front end to the end end. The outer diameter D3 of the end end of the cylindrical component 4A is the same as the outer diameter of the cylindrical component 4, and slightly smaller than the inner diameter D4 of the crimping ring 5. When the outer diameter D3 of the end end is taken as a reference, it can be said that the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical component 4A protrudes outward towards the front end. By crimping the cylindrical component 4A onto the cylindrical portion 31 and then crimping the crimping ring 5 onto the cylindrical component 4A, the crimping force is increased. Alternatively, the outer peripheral surface can be formed in the opposite direction to the cylindrical component 4A, tapering from the end end to the front end.

[0073] exist Figure 6 In the middle, the inner diameter D2 of cylindrical component 4B is... Figure 5 The cylindrical component 4 is the same as the cylindrical component 31, but differs in that a protrusion 43B is provided on the front end side instead of near the center. That is, the outer diameter DB of the front end of the cylindrical component 4B is larger than the outer diameter D3 of the end. In this case, by pressing the cylindrical component 4B onto the cylindrical portion 31 and pressing the pressing ring 5 onto the cylindrical component 4B, the stress on the front end side of the cylindrical component 4B can be relatively increased, thereby increasing the pressing force. Alternatively, the protrusion can be provided on the end side, in contrast to the cylindrical component 4B.

[0074] exist Figure 6 In the middle, the inner diameter D2 of the cylindrical component 4C is... Figure 5 The cylindrical component 4C is the same as the cylindrical component 4B, but differs in that a tapered surface is partially provided on its outer circumferential surface. The outer diameter DC of the front end of the cylindrical component 4C is larger than the outer diameter D3 of the rear end. That is, a protruding portion 43C is provided on the front end side of the cylindrical component 4C, and a tapered surface 41C is formed on the rear end side of the cylindrical component 4C. In this case, by pressing the cylindrical component 4C onto the cylindrical portion 31 and pressing the pressing ring 5 onto the cylindrical component 4C, the stress on the front end side of the cylindrical component 4B can be relatively increased, thereby increasing the pressing force. Alternatively, the cylindrical component 4C can be the opposite, with a protruding portion on the outer circumferential surface on the rear end side and a tapered surface on the front end side.

[0075] To improve the pressing force, it is also effective to replace the first protrusion that protrudes outward from the outer periphery, or to provide a second protrusion that protrudes inward from the inner periphery on the cylindrical component, in addition to the first protrusion. Figure 7 Examples of cylindrical components 4D to 4G are shown, illustrating the presence of a second protrusion projecting inward from the inner circumference. The outer diameter of cylindrical components 4D to 4G is... Figure 5 The cylindrical component 4 shown is the same as D3.

[0076] exist Figure 7 In the middle, the cylindrical component 4D in relation to Figure 5A protruding portion 44D (an example of the second protruding portion) protruding inward is formed near the center of the inner peripheral surface 42 having the same inner diameter D2.

[0077] When the cylindrical member 4D is crimped (temporarily fixed) to the tubular portion 31 of the optical connector plug 3, the stress on the outer peripheral surface 311 of the tubular portion 31 can be increased at the protruding portion 44D, and the crimping force between the tubular portion 31 and the cylindrical member 4 can be improved. In this temporary fixing, the inner peripheral surface 312 of the tubular portion 31 is slightly deflected inward at the position corresponding to the protruding portion 44D. When the outer peripheral surface 51 of the crimp ring 5 is crimped, since the protruding portion 44D is formed on the cylindrical member 4D, the inner peripheral surface 312 of the tubular portion 31 is further deflected inward at the position corresponding to the protruding portion 44D, so that the crimp ring 5, the cylindrical member 4D and the tubular portion 3 are firmly fixed. At this time, the tensile strength body 13 is firmly supported between the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical member 4D and the inner peripheral surface 52 of the crimp ring 5.

[0078] In Figure 7 , the outer diameter D3 of the cylindrical member 4E is the same as that of Figure 5 the cylindrical member 4, but the inner peripheral surface 42E is formed as a tapered surface. The inner diameter of the front end of the cylindrical member 4E is DE (<D2), the inner diameter of the rear end is D2, and the inner peripheral surface 42E has a shape that tapers from the rear end toward the front end. The inner diameter D2 on the rear end side of the cylindrical member 4E is slightly larger than the outer diameter D1 of the tubular portion 31. When the inner diameter D2 of the rear end is taken as a reference, it can be said that the inner peripheral surface 42E of the cylindrical member 4E protrudes inward toward the front end side. By crimping the cylindrical member 4E onto the tubular portion 31 and crimping the crimp ring 5 onto the cylindrical member 4E, the stress on the front end side of the cylindrical member 4E can be relatively increased, and the crimping force can be improved. Alternatively, contrary to the cylindrical member 4E, the inner peripheral surface may be formed into a shape that tapers from the front end toward the rear end.

[0079] In Figure 7 , compared with the cylindrical member 4D, the cylindrical member 4F is different in that a protruding portion 44F protruding inward is provided on the front end side of the inner peripheral surface 42 instead of near the center. That is, the inner diameter DF of the front end of the cylindrical member 4F is smaller than the inner diameter D2 of the rear end. In this case, by crimping the cylindrical member 4F onto the tubular portion 31 and crimping the crimp ring 5 onto the cylindrical member 4F, the stress on the front end side of the cylindrical member 4F can be relatively increased, and the crimping force can be improved. Alternatively, contrary to the cylindrical member 4F, the protruding portion may be provided on the rear end side.

[0080] In Figure 7 , the outer diameter D3 of the cylindrical member 4G is the same as that of Figure 5The cylindrical component 4G is the same as the cylindrical component 31, but differs in that a tapered surface is partially provided on its inner circumferential surface. The inner diameter DG of the front end of the cylindrical component 4G is smaller than the inner diameter D2 of the rear end. That is, a protruding portion 44G protruding inward is provided on the front end side of the cylindrical component 4G, and a tapered surface 42G is formed on the rear end side of the cylindrical component 4G. In this case, by pressing the cylindrical component 4G onto the cylindrical portion 31 and pressing the pressing ring 5 onto the cylindrical component 4G, the stress on the front end side of the cylindrical component 4G can be relatively increased, thereby increasing the pressing force. Alternatively, the cylindrical component 4G can be modified in the opposite way, with a protruding portion on the inner circumferential surface on the rear end side and a tapered surface on the front end side.

[0081] Next, refer to Figures 8-10 A method for manufacturing an optical fiber cable with an optical connector according to one embodiment will be described. Figures 8-10 The figures are, in sequence, diagrams illustrating a method for manufacturing an optical fiber cable with an optical connector according to one embodiment.

[0082] (1) Process ST1

[0083] Reference Figure 8 In process ST1, the cylindrical crimping ring 5 and the protective cover 6 are inserted into the optical fiber cable 1.

[0084] (2) Process ST2

[0085] In step ST2, the outer sheath 14 of the fiber optic cable 1 is removed, exposing the core wire 12 covering the optical fiber 11 and the tensile strength 13 disposed around the core wire 12. At this time, the exposure is staged, resulting in portions where only the outer sheath 14 has been removed and portions where both the outer sheath 14 and the tensile strength 13 have been removed. No limitation is imposed, but the length from the tip of the outer sheath 14 to the tip of the core wire 12 (the length of the exposed core wire 12) is between 10 mm and 50 mm, and the length of the tensile strength 13 exposed from the outer sheath 14 is between 5 mm and 20 mm.

[0086] (3) Process ST3

[0087] In process ST3, the cylindrical component 4 is mounted on the cylindrical portion 31 such that the inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical component 4 contacts the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion 31 provided on the optical connector plug 3. Preferably, as shown in reference... Figures 5-7 As explained, protrusions are formed on the outer and / or inner circumferential surfaces of the cylindrical component 4.

[0088] (4) Process ST4

[0089] Reference Figure 9 Remove the core wire 12 at the front end of the fiber optic cable 1 to expose the optical fiber 11. The length of the exposed optical fiber 11 is not limited, but is in the range of 5mm to 15mm.

[0090] (5) Process ST5

[0091] In step ST5, the exposed optical fiber 11 is bonded and fixed to the sleeve 33 of the optical fiber cable 1. Specifically, the end passing through the cylindrical part 31 and the tube 36 (see reference) Figure 4 The thermosetting adhesive is injected into the through-hole of the sleeve 33 through a dispenser (syringe) containing the thermosetting adhesive. Then, the exposed tip of the optical fiber 11 is inserted into the through-hole formed in the sleeve 33. After the tip of the optical fiber 11 is inserted into the through-hole, the sleeve 33 is heated to cure the thermosetting adhesive.

[0092] (6) Process ST6

[0093] In step ST6, at least a portion of the inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical component 4 is crimped (temporarily fixed) onto at least a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion 31 of the optical connector plug 3. The purpose of temporarily fixing the cylindrical component 4 to the cylindrical portion 31 is to prevent the cylindrical component 4 from falling off the cylindrical portion 31 or shifting axially during operation.

[0094] Furthermore, it is not necessary to temporarily fix the cylindrical component 4 to the cylindrical portion 31 by crimping. For example, if the cylindrical component 4 is crimped into the cylindrical portion 31 of the optical connector plug 3 in step ST3, so that the cylindrical component 4 will not fall off the cylindrical portion 31 or shift axially, then step ST6 is not required.

[0095] (7) Process ST7

[0096] In process ST7, the crimping ring 5 is slidably disposed on the outer periphery of the cylindrical component 4 along the axial direction. In this case, the second housing portion 35B of the optical connector plug 3 (see reference) Figure 4 The end of the crimping ring 5 becomes a stop. In this state, the crimping ring 5 is in a first axial position P1, where at least a portion of the inner circumferential surface of the crimping ring 5 clamps the tensile body 13 of the optical fiber cable 1 and can be crimped onto at least a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical component 4; and in a second axial position P2, where at least a portion of the inner circumferential surface of the crimping ring 5 can be crimped onto the outer sheath 14 of the optical fiber cable 1.

[0097] (8) Process ST8

[0098] In step ST8, at a first axial position P1, at least a portion of the inner circumferential surface of the crimping ring 5 clamps the tensile body 13 of the optical fiber cable 1 and crimps it onto at least a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical component 4 (an example of the first crimping step). Further in step ST8, at a second axial position P2, at least a portion of the inner circumferential surface of the crimping ring 5 is crimped onto the outer sheath 14 of the optical fiber cable 1 (an example of the second crimping step). Step ST8 securely fixes the cylindrical portion 31 of the optical connector plug 3, the cylindrical component 4, and the crimping ring 5.

[0099] The crimping at the first position P1 and the crimping at the second position P2 of the crimping ring 5 can also be performed simultaneously if the axial distance between the first position P1 and the second position P2 is less than or equal to the width of the crimping tool (e.g., less than 10 mm). This reduces the workload compared to performing two crimping operations by sliding the crimping tool.

[0100] (9) Process ST9

[0101] In step ST9, the protective cover 6 is slid axially and engaged with the crimping ring 5. That is, the protective cover 6 is axially positioned by engaging the protrusion on the inner circumferential surface of the protective cover 6 (not shown) with the engaging groove 53 of the crimping ring 5.

[0102] After the above steps, the process is complete. Figure 1A and Figure 1B The fiber optic cable shown has an optical connector.

[0103] As described above, according to one embodiment of the optical fiber cable with an optical connector, a cylindrical member 4 is provided between the cylindrical portion 31 of the optical connector plug 3 and the crimping ring 5, and the cylindrical member 4 is mounted on the cylindrical portion 31 such that the inner circumferential surface 42 of the cylindrical member 4 contacts the outer circumferential surface 311 of the cylindrical portion 31. At least a portion of the inner circumferential surface 52 of the crimping ring 5 in a first axial position clamps the tensile strength body 13 of the optical fiber cable 1 and crimps it onto at least a portion of the outer circumferential surface 41 of the cylindrical member 4, and at a second axial position, at least a portion of the inner circumferential surface 52 crimps it onto the outer sheath 14 of the optical fiber cable 1. That is, when an optical fiber cable 1 with a larger outer diameter than the optical connector plug 3 is installed, the cylindrical member 4 is configured to absorb the difference between the inner diameter of the crimping ring 5 and the outer diameter of the cylindrical portion 31, thus suppressing the entire length of the optical connector. At this time, the cylindrical portion 31, the cylindrical member 4, and the crimping ring 5 are firmly fixed by crimping.

[0104] In one embodiment, by providing a first protrusion that protrudes outward from the outer periphery of the cylindrical component 4 and / or a second protrusion that protrudes inward from the inner periphery of the cylindrical component 4, the pressing force of the cylindrical component 4 on the cylindrical portion 31 and the pressing force of the pressing ring 5 on the cylindrical component 4 can be further improved.

[0105] In one embodiment, by using a crimping tool with a hexagonal or other polygonal hole shape to crimp the crimped portion (such as hexagonal riveting), the holding force against the rotational torque generated by the optical fiber cable 1 can be further improved.

[0106] The above description outlines the optical fiber cable with an optical connector, the method for manufacturing the optical fiber cable with an optical connector, and embodiments of the optical connector according to the present invention. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above. Furthermore, various modifications or alterations can be made to the above embodiments without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0107] For example, the above embodiments described an LC-type connector, but the methods can also be applied to SC-type, MU-type, and other connectors. Furthermore, it is not limited to this; it can also be applied to optical connectors with similar structures.

[0108] This invention relates to Japanese Patent Application No. 2022-57954, filed with the Japan Patent Office on March 31, 2022, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Claims

1. An optical fiber cable with an optical connector, characterized in that, have: Fiber optic cables; and Optical connector, The optical fiber cable has the following characteristics: optical fiber; A covering that covers the optical fiber; Tension resisting body disposed around the cover; and The outer sheath, which houses the optical fiber, the cover, and the tensile strength body, The optical connector includes: An optical connector plug having: a sleeve configured to protrude from a front end side and forming an insertion hole for the optical fiber; and a cylindrical portion configured to protrude from an end side opposite to the front end side. A crimping component, used for crimping and securing the optical fiber cable to the optical connector plug; and cylindrical components The outer diameter of the outer skin is larger than the outer diameter of the cylindrical portion. The cylindrical component overlaps with the cylindrical portion and the crimping component in the axial direction at a position between the cylindrical portion and the crimping component. The cylindrical component is mounted on the cylindrical portion in such a manner that its inner circumferential surface contacts the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion. The crimping component is cylindrical. At the first axial position, where the inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical component contacts the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion, at least a portion of the inner circumferential surface of the crimping component clamps the tensile body of the optical fiber cable and crimps it onto at least a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical component. At the second axial position, at least a portion of the inner circumferential surface of the crimping component crimps it onto the outer sheath of the optical fiber cable.

2. The fiber optic cable with an optical connector according to claim 1, characterized in that, At least a portion of the inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical component is pressed against at least a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion.

3. The optical fiber cable with an optical connector according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The cylindrical component has a first protrusion that protrudes outward from the outer periphery.

4. The optical fiber cable with an optical connector according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The cylindrical component has a second protrusion that extends inward from the inner circumference.

5. The fiber optic cable with an optical connector according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The inner circumferential surface of the crimping component is crimped at equal intervals on multiple locations on the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical component.

6. The optical fiber cable with an optical connector according to claim 3, characterized in that, The inner circumferential surface of the crimping component is crimped at equal intervals on multiple locations on the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical component.

7. The optical fiber cable with an optical connector according to claim 4, characterized in that, The inner circumferential surface of the crimping component is crimped at equal intervals on multiple locations on the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical component.

8. A method for manufacturing an optical fiber cable with an optical connector, characterized in that, The process includes the following steps: The process of inserting a cylindrical crimping component into an optical fiber cable; The process of removing the outer sheath of the optical fiber cable to expose the cover covering the optical fiber and the tensile body disposed around the cover. The process of installing the cylindrical component onto the cylindrical part in such a way that the inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical component contacts the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical part provided on the optical connector plug; The process of removing the cover at the front end of the optical fiber cable to expose the optical fiber; The process of bonding and fixing the exposed optical fiber to the sleeve of the optical connector plug; The crimping component is slid axially, and at the first axial position where the inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical component contacts the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical part, at least a portion of the inner circumferential surface of the crimping component clamps the tensile body of the optical fiber cable and crimps it onto at least a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical component. as well as In a second axial position, a second crimping process is performed in which at least a portion of the inner circumferential surface of the crimping component is crimped onto the outer sheath of the optical fiber cable. The outer diameter of the outer skin is larger than the outer diameter of the cylindrical portion. The cylindrical component overlaps with the cylindrical portion and the crimping component in the axial direction at a position between the cylindrical portion and the crimping component.

9. The method for manufacturing an optical fiber cable with an optical connector according to claim 8, characterized in that, The process of mounting the cylindrical component to the cylindrical portion includes pressing at least a portion of the inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical component onto at least a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion of the optical connector plug.

10. The method for manufacturing an optical fiber cable with an optical connector according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that, The first pressing process and the second pressing process are performed simultaneously.

11. An optical connector, wherein the optical connector is mounted on an optical fiber cable, characterized in that, have: An optical connector plug having: a sleeve configured to protrude from a front end side and forming an insertion hole for an optical fiber; and a cylindrical portion configured to protrude from an end side opposite to the front end side. Components for crimping; and cylindrical components The outer diameter of the fiber optic cable sheath is larger than the outer diameter of the cylindrical portion. The cylindrical component overlaps with the cylindrical portion and the crimping component in the axial direction at a position between the cylindrical portion and the crimping component. The cylindrical component is mounted on the cylindrical portion such that at least a portion of its inner circumferential surface contacts at least a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion. The crimping component is cylindrical. At the position where the inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical component contacts the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion, which is the first axial position of the crimping component, the crimping component is disposed at a position where at least a portion of the inner circumferential surface of the crimping component clamps the tensile body of the optical fiber cable and can be crimped onto at least a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical component. At the second axial position of the crimping component, the crimping component is disposed at a position where at least a portion of the inner circumferential surface of the crimping component can be crimped onto the outer sheath of the optical fiber cable.

12. The optical connector according to claim 11, characterized in that, At least a portion of the inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical component is pressed against at least a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion.

13. The optical connector according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that, The cylindrical component has a first protrusion that protrudes outward from the outer periphery.

14. The optical connector according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that, The cylindrical component has a second protrusion that extends inward from the inner circumference.

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