Combinable Optical-Fiber Adapter Assembly for Compact 5G Layouts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical-fiber adapters lack flexibility in layout configurations, leading to wasted space, particularly in 5G applications where compact designs are necessary due to fixed numbers of connector holes and larger module sizes for SFP and QSFP modules.
Innovation Solution
A combinable optical-fiber adapter assembly that allows multiple adapters to be combined and interconnected, featuring elastic arms and connection units for flexible arrangement and reduced length, enabling multiple optical-fiber connectors and adaptable layouts within a smaller space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the number of holes in the adapter is fixed, then the adapter structure is simple, but the layout flexibility is poor and space is wasted
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter body is divided into multiple independent adapter units, each with its own insertion hole. These modular units can be selectively combined in different configurations (single adapter, dual adapter side-by-side, dual adapter stacked) to match the required number of optical fiber connections, providing layout flexibility without requiring a completely different adapter design for each configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple adapter units are nested or combined within a common adapter housing. The adapter units can be arranged side-by-side or stacked vertically within the same adapter body, allowing multiple connectors to be integrated into a single adapter assembly while maintaining organized cable management and reducing overall space requirements.
2Reliability
If SFP and QSFP modules are used, then the optical transmission function is achieved, but the module size is large and occupies more space
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple optical fiber adapter units are merged into a single integrated adapter assembly with a common housing and cable management structure. This consolidation reduces the total volume compared to using separate adapters for each connector, while still supporting multiple optical transmission channels through the integrated adapter units.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple adapters are arranged side-by-side, then the layout flexibility is improved, but the overall length increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of arranging adapter units only in a horizontal side-by-side configuration, the design enables vertical stacking arrangements as well. Adapter units can be positioned in different spatial dimensions (horizontal or vertical) within the common housing, allowing flexible layout configurations that optimize space utilization and minimize the overall footprint in both directions.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides a compact, flexible layout for optical-fiber cables, reducing adapter length and allowing for multiple connector insertions, thus meeting the requirements of 5G modules by enabling side-by-side assembly and secure engagement of adapters, preventing detachment under cable tension.
Implementation Method 1
the elastic arms of the adapters can be engaged with the connector, and the adapter can be disengaged from the connector through a fixture
Data Source
AI summary
A combinable optical-fiber adapter assembly includes combinable optical-fiber adapters. A first optical-fiber adapter includes a first adapter body, and a first side wall of the first adapter body has first connection units. A second optical-fiber adapter includes a second adapter body, and a first side wall of the second adapter body has second connection units. The first connection units are assembled with the second connection units. In a one-to-one manner, each of the first connection units is docked with a corresponding one of the second connection units, so that two adjacent optical-fiber adapters can be assembled side-by-side. Optical-fiber cables are inserted into the optical-fiber adapter from one side of the optical-fiber adapter. The optical-fiber adapter has a reduced length.