Indoor and outdoor dual-purpose waterproof optical fiber connector

Abstract

The utility model relates to the technical field of optical fiber connectors, in particular to an indoor and outdoor dual-purpose waterproof optical fiber connector which comprises an outer shell, an inner shell, an MT insertion core assembly and an elastic assembly, the inner shell is coaxially nested in the outer shell, one end of the MT insertion core assembly is coaxially installed in the inner shell, and the other end of the MT insertion core assembly is directly and coaxially nested in the outer shell; the elastic assembly comprises first springs arranged at the two axial ends of the MT insertion core assembly respectively, and the two ends of the first springs abut against the end face of the MT insertion core assembly and the inner wall of the shell respectively in an elastic mode. Through the collaborative design of the double-shell nesting structure and the elastic buffer system, the connector keeps excellent waterproof performance, and the alignment accuracy and stability of the end face of the optical fiber are improved at the same time.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the technical field of fiber optic connectors, and in particular to a waterproof fiber optic connector that can be used both indoors and outdoors. Background Technology

[0002] With the rapid development of 5G communication, the Internet of Things, and data centers, the deployment scenarios for fiber optic networks are becoming increasingly complex, gradually extending from traditional data centers to harsh environments such as industrial sites, outdoor base stations, and offshore platforms. As a core interface component for optical signal transmission, the performance of fiber optic connectors directly affects the stability of communication systems.

[0003] Under the combined stresses of outdoor humidity, temperature fluctuations, and mechanical vibration, the waterproofness, impact resistance, and optical alignment accuracy of connectors have become critical technical bottlenecks that the industry urgently needs to overcome. Currently, most mainstream waterproof fiber optic connectors adopt a single-layer shell sealing structure, relying on O-rings or potting processes to achieve waterproofing, and the MT ferrule is usually installed using rigid fixing or simple spring preloading.

[0004] However, traditional waterproof fiber optic connectors suffer from low waterproofing and alignment accuracy, making it difficult to meet the technical requirements of both high waterproofing rating and long-term optical stability. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In view of this, this application provides a waterproof fiber optic connector that can be used both indoors and outdoors. By combining a double-shell nested structure with a force transmission path optimized by bidirectional elastic buffering of the MT ferrule, it solves the technical problem that it is difficult to achieve both waterproof performance and optical alignment stability in fiber optic connectors.

[0006] This application provides a waterproof fiber optic connector suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, employing the following technical solution:

[0007] A waterproof fiber optic connector suitable for both indoor and outdoor use includes: a shell, an inner shell, an MT ferrule assembly, and a resilient assembly;

[0008] The inner shell is coaxially nested within the outer shell;

[0009] One end of the MT ferrule assembly is coaxially mounted to the inner housing, and the other end of the MT ferrule assembly is directly coaxially nested into the outer housing.

[0010] The elastic component includes a first spring disposed at both axial ends of the MT ferrule assembly, wherein the two ends of the first spring elastically abut against the end face of the MT ferrule assembly and the inner wall of the housing, respectively.

[0011] By adopting the above technical solution, a double waterproof barrier is achieved by using the coaxial nesting structure of the inner shell and the outer shell. At the same time, the elastic components set at both ends form a two-way buffer protection for the MT ferrule. This can effectively absorb axial vibration impact and maintain the precise alignment of the ferrule. The short lever arm design of the ferrule directly nesting in the outer shell reduces the transmission of mechanical stress. Under the premise of ensuring waterproof performance, the vibration resistance stability of the connector in indoor and outdoor environments and the reliability of long-term optical performance are significantly improved.

[0012] Preferably, the housing includes a first housing and a second housing;

[0013] The end of the first outer shell is provided with a snap-fit ​​part, and the outer side of the snap-fit ​​part is provided with multiple ring-shaped elastic claws.

[0014] The end of the second housing is provided with a snap-fit ​​sleeve, and the snap-fit ​​sleeve is provided with multiple positioning grooves corresponding to the elastic claws;

[0015] The first outer shell and the second outer shell are axially engaged by elastic claws and positioning grooves.

[0016] By adopting the above technical solution, rapid assembly and reliable sealing of the housing components are achieved. The cooperative structure of the elastic claw and the positioning groove not only ensures the axial fastening connection between the first housing and the second housing, but also forms a uniform radial clamping force through the annular distribution of elastic contact, which effectively improves the waterproof performance of the housing connection. At the same time, the detachable design facilitates the inspection or replacement of the internal MT ferrule assembly during on-site maintenance.

[0017] Preferably, the MT ferrule assembly includes two sets of MT ferrule kits and an MT ferrule installed in the cavity of the MT ferrule kits.

[0018] By adopting the above technical solution, the two sets of MT ferrule kits form a double-ended symmetrical plug-in structure, which not only realizes the bidirectional docking function of the fiber optic connector, but also ensures the stable installation of the MT ferrule through the precise positioning of the inner cavity of the kit. With the buffering effect of the elastic component, the ferrule can still maintain accurate fiber alignment under frequent plugging and unplugging or vibration environment, thereby significantly improving the mechanical durability and transmission stability of the connector.

[0019] Preferably, the two sets of MT ferrule kits are symmetrically arranged, and one set of MT ferrule kits is coaxially installed in the inner cavity of the inner shell, while the other set of MT ferrule kits is coaxially nested in the outer shell. The MT ferrule kit includes an MT ferrule sleeve and a second spring.

[0020] The second spring is installed at the end of the inner cavity of the MT ferrule sleeve, and the two ends of the second spring are in elastic contact with the inside of the MT ferrule and the MT ferrule sleeve, respectively.

[0021] By adopting the above technical solution, the symmetrically arranged MT ferrule kit can absorb axial impact force through the elastic deformation of the second spring during the insertion and removal process, and can also use the second spring to precisely constrain the stroke of the MT ferrule. This effectively suppresses the over-displacement vibration of the ferrule under dynamic working conditions, while maintaining stable contact pressure on the fiber end face, and also significantly improves the insertion and removal life of the connector and the reliability of signal transmission.

[0022] Preferably, the MT ferrule includes a first MT ferrule and a second MT ferrule;

[0023] The first MT insert and the second MT insert are respectively installed at the inner end of the two sets of MT insert sleeves, and the tail ends of the first MT insert and the second MT insert respectively abut against the second spring.

[0024] The end of the first MT ferrule is provided with an MT ferrule guide pin, and the end of the second MT ferrule is provided with an MT ferrule guide pin hole corresponding to the MT ferrule guide pin.

[0025] The first MT ferrule and the second MT ferrule are axially connected through the MT ferrule guide pin and the MT ferrule guide pin hole.

[0026] By adopting the above technical solution, the first MT ferrule and the second MT ferrule achieve automatic alignment through the precise cooperation of the guide pin and guide pin hole. This ensures accurate connection of the fiber end face and prevents over-insertion loss through the stop effect of the second spring. At the same time, the symmetrical layout of the dual ferrules allows the connector to dynamically balance the stress distribution through the spring system at both ends when subjected to external vibration, thereby maintaining stable optical performance and physical connection reliability even in harsh environments.

[0027] Preferably, it also includes a mounting ring;

[0028] The outer wall of the first housing is threaded on the side near the snap-fit ​​part, and the mounting ring is installed on the first housing through the thread.

[0029] By adopting the above technical solution, the threaded connection structure between the mounting ring and the housing enables the connector to be quickly installed and fixed on the equipment panel or chassis. At the same time, the adjustable characteristics of the threaded engagement allow the connector to adapt to the requirements of mounting panels of different thicknesses, ensuring the sealing and protection performance of the equipment interface and providing a flexible and convenient assembly method for on-site construction. Furthermore, the mounting ring can also increase the stress-bearing effect of the first housing.

[0030] Preferably, the inner wall of the second housing is threaded on the side near the snap-fit ​​sleeve;

[0031] The inner shell has an external thread at its tail end that matches the thread on the inner wall of the second outer shell, and the inner shell is connected and fixed to the second outer shell by the thread.

[0032] By adopting the above technical solution, the inner shell and the second outer shell are reliably mechanically fixed by threaded engagement, ensuring the coaxiality and sealing of the inner and outer shells. Furthermore, the detachable nature of the threaded connection facilitates the replacement of the inner shell assembly during product maintenance. At the same time, the preload generated by the threaded engagement further enhances the vibration resistance of the overall connector structure.

[0033] Preferably, a silicone gasket is fitted on the outer wall of the inner shell near the tail end;

[0034] There is a snap-fit ​​space between the inner shell and the snap-fit ​​sleeve that is adapted to the snap-fit ​​part. The first outer shell passes through the snap-fit ​​part through the snap-fit ​​space and abuts against the silicone gasket.

[0035] By adopting the above technical solution, the synergistic effect of the silicone gasket and the snap-fit ​​structure forms a triple sealing protection system: the silicone gasket achieves primary sealing by filling the assembly gap between the inner shell and the outer shell through elastic deformation; the precise fit between the snap-fit ​​part and the snap-fit ​​space constitutes a mechanical waterproof barrier; and the continuous radial force generated by the pressure on the gasket further enhances the waterproof reliability of the connector in a vibration environment.

[0036] In summary, this application includes at least one of the following beneficial technical effects:

[0037] The indoor / outdoor dual-use waterproof fiber optic connector provided in this application not only constructs a double waterproof barrier by setting a coaxial nested outer shell and inner shell in the housing structure, but also forms an effective stress isolation mechanism, giving the connector excellent environmental adaptability. The unique layout of the MT ferrule assembly directly nested in the outer shell significantly shortens the mechanical force transmission path. Combined with the first spring assembly set at both ends of the axis, it forms an all-round buffer protection system that can effectively absorb vibration and impact energy from different directions. Through the synergistic design of the double-shell nested structure and the elastic buffer system, this application ensures that the connector maintains excellent waterproof performance while ensuring precise alignment and stable contact of the fiber end face, breaking through the performance limitations of traditional connectors in harsh environments. Furthermore, through the dynamic compensation effect of the elastic component and the precision guiding function of the shell, it can still maintain a high degree of stability in optical performance under complex working conditions such as temperature changes and mechanical vibrations, significantly improving the service life and signal transmission quality of the fiber optic connector in harsh environments such as indoor and outdoor environments, providing a key basic connection device guarantee for fiber optic network deployment. Attached Figure Description

[0038] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the fiber optic connector of this application;

[0039] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Sectional view along the middle AA;

[0040] Figure 3 This is an exploded view of the fiber optic connector in this application;

[0041] Figure 4 This is a structural schematic diagram of the MT ferrule assembly in the docked state in this application;

[0042] Figure 5 This is an exploded view of the MT ferrule assembly in this application.

[0043] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached drawings: 1. Outer shell; 11. First outer shell; 111. Mounting part; 112. Handheld part; 12. Second outer shell; 13. Snap-fit ​​part; 14. Snap-fit ​​sleeve; 2. Inner shell; 21. Silicone gasket; 3. MT ferrule assembly; 31. MT ferrule kit; 32. MT ferrule; 311. MT ferrule sleeve; 312. Second spring; 321. First MT ferrule; 322. Second MT ferrule; 3111. Sleeve body; 3112. Sleeve tail insert; 4. Elastic component; 41. First spring; 5. Mounting ring. Detailed Implementation

[0044] The following is in conjunction with the appendix Figure 1-5 This application will be described in further detail.

[0045] A waterproof fiber optic connector suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, as shown in Figures 1-2, includes a housing 1, an inner housing 2, an MT ferrule assembly 3, and an elastic component 4. The inner housing 2 is coaxially nested within the cavity of the housing 1. One end of the MT ferrule assembly 3 is coaxially mounted to the inner housing 2, and the other end of the MT ferrule assembly 3 is directly coaxially nested within the housing 1. The two ends of the elastic component 4 elastically abut against the end face of the MT ferrule assembly 3 and the inner wall of the housing 1, respectively. This design effectively isolates moisture through the double-housing structure while absorbing axial vibration impacts and maintaining precise ferrule alignment.

[0046] Specifically, refer to Figure 3The outer casing 1 includes a first outer casing 11 and a second outer casing 12. The first outer casing 11 has a locking portion 13 at its end, with multiple annularly distributed elastic claws evenly distributed on its outer side. The second outer casing has a locking sleeve 14 at its end, with multiple through-hole irregularly shaped slots. The number of positioning slots corresponds one-to-one with the elastic claws, allowing the outer casing 1 to be axially engaged with the positioning slots via the elastic claws, thus achieving positioning and fixation between the first outer casing 11 and the second outer casing 12. Preferably, in this embodiment, the number of elastic claws and positioning slots can be set to three. In addition, the outer wall of the first housing 11 is provided with two raised steps on the side near the snap-fit ​​part 13. The raised steps near the snap-fit ​​part are provided with threads. The mounting ring 5 is installed on the first housing 11 by the threads. In this embodiment, the threaded connection structure between the mounting ring 5 and the first housing 11 can realize the quick installation and fixation of the fiber optic connector on the equipment panel or chassis. At the same time, the adjustable characteristics of the threaded engagement enable the fiber optic connector to adapt to the installation panel requirements of different thicknesses, providing a flexible and convenient assembly method for on-site construction. It should be noted that the raised steps away from the snap-fit ​​part 13 are only used for limiting the mounting ring 5.

[0047] Furthermore, the first outer casing 11 includes a mounting part 111 and a handle part 112. The end of the mounting part 111 is a snap-fit ​​part 13, and the tail of the mounting part 111 is provided with an external thread. The end of the handle part 112 is fixedly connected to the mounting part 111 through an internal thread that matches the external thread, so that when the construction personnel are installing the optical fiber, they can easily separate the mounting part 111 and the handle part 112 by unscrewing the thread, thus achieving rapid installation of the optical fiber. In addition, a silicone ring is provided at the threaded connection to improve the waterproof performance of the connection.

[0048] In this embodiment, the tail of the inner shell 2 is provided with an external thread that matches the inner wall thread of the second outer shell 12, and a silicone gasket 21 is fitted on the outer wall of the inner shell 2 near the tail. When the construction personnel install the optical fiber, they fix the inner shell 2 into the inner cavity of the second outer shell 12 by means of the thread. At this time, a snap-fit ​​space that matches the snap-fit ​​part 13 is formed between the inner shell 2 and the snap-fit ​​sleeve 14, so that during installation, the snap-fit ​​part 13 can pass through the snap-fit ​​space and abut against the silicone gasket 21 to achieve the primary sealing of the optical fiber connector.

[0049] Reference Figure 3-5The MT ferrule assembly 3 includes an MT ferrule kit 31 and an MT ferrule 32, with the MT ferrule 32 nested within the inner cavity of the MT ferrule kit 31. In this embodiment, two sets of MT ferrule kits 31 are provided, symmetrically arranged about the central axis of the outer shell 1. One set of MT ferrule kits 31 is installed within the inner cavity of the inner shell 2, while the other set of MT ferrule kits 31 is coaxially nested within the mounting portion 111 and fixed by a protrusion within the inner cavity of the mounting portion 111. Similarly, the end of the MT ferrule kit 31 nested within the mounting portion 111 forms a snap-fit ​​space that fits the inner shell 2, allowing the inner shell 2 to pass through the snap-fit ​​space and abut against the protrusion within the inner cavity of the mounting portion 111 during installation, thus achieving a second layer of sealing for the fiber optic connector.

[0050] Taking one set as an example: the MT ferrule kit 31 includes an MT ferrule sleeve 311 and a second spring 312. The second spring 312 is installed in the groove at the end of the inner cavity of the MT ferrule sleeve 311, and the two ends of the second spring 312 elastically abut against the end of the MT ferrule 32 and the inner wall of the MT ferrule sleeve 311, respectively. When subjected to axial force, the second spring 312 can deform linearly within the elastic coefficient range, which can not only ensure the buffering effect during insertion and removal, but also maintain the axial positioning accuracy of the ferrule through pre-tightening force.

[0051] It should be noted that the MT insert sleeve 311 includes a sleeve body 3111 and a sleeve tail insert 3112. The sleeve tail insert 3112 is inserted into the tail end of the sleeve body 3111 and engages with it. During assembly, the sleeve tail insert abuts against the second spring 312 to provide axial buffering force for the MT insert 32.

[0052] In this embodiment, the MT ferrule 32 includes a first MT ferrule 321 and a second MT ferrule 322. The first MT ferrule 321 and the second MT ferrule 322 are respectively installed at the ends of the inner cavities of the two sets of MT ferrule sleeves 311, and the tail ends of the first MT ferrule 321 and the second MT ferrule 322 respectively abut against the second spring 312. The end of the first MT ferrule 321 is provided with an MT ferrule guide pin, and the end of the second MT ferrule 322 is provided with an MT ferrule guide pin hole corresponding to the MT ferrule guide pin. When installing optical fiber, the optical fiber passes through the second spring 312 and is inserted into the tail ends of the first MT ferrule 321 and the second MT ferrule 322 respectively. Then, by inserting the MT ferrule guide pin into the MT ferrule guide pin hole, the axial connection of the first MT ferrule 321 and the second MT ferrule 322 is completed, and the optical fiber connection is realized. In this embodiment, the MT ferrule 32 adopts the current standard MT ferrule, and the specific structure of the MT ferrule 32 will not be described in detail here.

[0053] In this embodiment, the elastic component 4 includes two sets of first springs 41. One set of first springs 41 is installed in the groove of the handheld part 112, with one end fixed by the groove and the other end elastically abutting against the tail of the MT ferrule sleeve 311, so as to push the MT ferrule sleeve 311 to the protrusion in the inner cavity of the mounting part 111 to achieve limiting and fixing. The other set of first springs 41 is installed in the groove of the second outer shell 12, with one end fixed by the groove and the other end elastically abutting against the tail of the MT ferrule sleeve 311, so as to limit the MT ferrule sleeve 311 to the inner cavity of the inner shell 2 through elasticity, forming a two-way buffer protection for the MT ferrule, which effectively absorbs axial vibration impact and maintains the accurate alignment of the ferrule.

[0054] In this embodiment, the first outer shell 11, a set of MT ferrule kits 31 and a set of first springs 41 form an ODC socket, and the second outer shell 12, the inner shell 2, a set of MT ferrule kits 31 and a set of first springs 41 form an ODC plug. The ODC socket and the ODC plug can be snapped together to form a quick-install ring and an overall shell structure for indoor and outdoor waterproof fiber optic connectors.

[0055] The implementation principle of this application is as follows:

[0056] When installing the fiber optic connector, the installer first inserts the elastic claws of the snap-fit ​​part 13 into the positioning groove of the snap-fit ​​sleeve 14 to align the first outer shell 11 with the second outer shell 12, achieving initial axial alignment of the outer layer. Then, by twisting and pushing the first outer shell 11, the installer gradually moves the snap-fit ​​part 13 and the inner shell 2 through the snap-fit ​​space. Simultaneously, during the twisting process, the MT ferrule guide pin and the MT ferrule guide pin hole gradually align, and the connection is completed with continued pushing, achieving secondary alignment of the inner layer. In this process, the coaxial nested outer and inner shells within the housing structure not only create a double waterproof barrier but also form an effective stress isolation mechanism, giving the connector excellent environmental adaptability. The unique layout of the MT ferrule assembly directly nested within the outer shell significantly shortens the mechanical force transmission path. Combined with the first spring assemblies at both axial ends, this constitutes an all-around buffer protection system that effectively absorbs vibration and impact energy from different directions. This allows the connector to maintain excellent waterproof performance while also improving the alignment accuracy and stable contact of the fiber end face, overcoming the performance limitations of traditional connectors in harsh environments.

[0057] The above are all preferred embodiments of this application, and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, all equivalent changes made in accordance with the structure, shape and principle of this application should be covered within the scope of protection of this application.

Claims

1. A waterproof fiber optic connector suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, characterized in that, include: Outer shell (1), inner shell (2), MT ferrule assembly (3) and elastic assembly (4); The inner shell (2) is coaxially nested within the outer shell (1); One end of the MT ferrule assembly (3) is coaxially mounted to the inner shell (2), and the other end of the MT ferrule assembly (3) is directly coaxially nested in the outer shell (1). The elastic component (4) includes a first spring (41) respectively disposed at both ends of the MT ferrule assembly (3) along the axial direction, wherein the two ends of the first spring (41) elastically abut against the end face of the MT ferrule assembly (3) and the inner wall of the outer shell (1) respectively.

2. The waterproof fiber optic connector for both indoor and outdoor use according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outer casing (1) includes a first outer casing (11) and a second outer casing (12); The first outer shell (11) has a snap-fit ​​part (13) at its end, and the snap-fit ​​part (13) has a plurality of ring-shaped elastic claws on its outer side; The end of the second outer shell (12) is provided with a snap-fit ​​sleeve (14), and the snap-fit ​​sleeve (14) is provided with a plurality of positioning grooves corresponding to the elastic claws; The first outer shell (11) and the second outer shell (12) are axially engaged with the positioning groove by means of the elastic claw.

3. The waterproof fiber optic connector for both indoor and outdoor use according to claim 1, characterized in that, The MT ferrule assembly (3) includes two sets of MT ferrule kits (31) and an MT ferrule (32) installed in the cavity of the MT ferrule kits (31).

4. The waterproof fiber optic connector for both indoor and outdoor use according to claim 3, characterized in that, The two sets of MT ferrule kits (31) are arranged symmetrically, and one set of MT ferrule kits (31) is coaxially installed in the inner cavity of the inner shell (2), and the other set of MT ferrule kits (31) is coaxially nested in the outer shell (1). The MT ferrule kit (31) includes an MT ferrule sleeve (311) and a second spring (312). The second spring (312) is installed at the end of the inner cavity of the MT ferrule (311), and the two ends of the second spring (312) are elastically abutted against the end of the MT ferrule (32) and the inside of the MT ferrule (311), respectively.

5. A waterproof fiber optic connector for both indoor and outdoor use according to claim 4, characterized in that, The MT ferrule (32) includes a first MT ferrule (321) and a second MT ferrule (322); The first MT insert (321) and the second MT insert (322) are respectively installed at the inner end of the two sets of MT insert sleeves (311), and the tail ends of the first MT insert (321) and the second MT insert (322) respectively abut against the second spring (312); The first MT ferrule (321) has an MT ferrule (32) guide pin at its end, and the second MT ferrule (322) has an MT ferrule (32) guide pin hole at its end corresponding to the MT ferrule (32) guide pin. The first MT ferrule (321) and the second MT ferrule (322) are axially connected through the guide pin of the MT ferrule (32) and the guide pin hole of the MT ferrule (32).

6. A waterproof fiber optic connector for both indoor and outdoor use according to claim 2, characterized in that, It also includes the mounting ring (5); The outer wall of the first housing (11) is provided with threads on the side near the snap-fit ​​part (13), and the mounting ring (5) is installed on the first housing (11) by the threads.

7. A waterproof fiber optic connector for both indoor and outdoor use according to claim 2, characterized in that, The inner wall of the second outer shell (12) is threaded on the side near the snap-fit ​​sleeve (14); The inner shell (2) is provided with an external thread at its tail end that is compatible with the thread of the inner wall of the second outer shell (12), and the inner shell (2) is connected and fixed to the second outer shell (12) by the thread.

8. A waterproof fiber optic connector for both indoor and outdoor use according to claim 7, characterized in that, A silicone gasket (21) is fitted on the outer wall of the inner shell (2) near the tail. The inner shell (2) and the snap-fit ​​sleeve (14) are provided with a snap-fit ​​space that is adapted to the snap-fit ​​part (13). The first outer shell (11) passes through the snap-fit ​​part (13) and abuts against the silicone gasket (21) through the snap-fit ​​space.

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