Compact Optical Multiports With Integrated Securing Features
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional multiports for optical connections are bulky and inflexible, occupying excessive space, requiring separate threaded or bayonet couplings, and posing organizational and aesthetic challenges in limited deployment environments.
Innovation Solution
The development of multiports with compact form-factors and integrated securing features that allow direct insertion of fiber optic connectors, eliminating the need for bulky couplings and enabling dense, organized arrays of connection ports.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional multiports use separate threaded or bayonet couplings for securing connectors, then reliable optical connections are achieved, but the device becomes bulky and occupies excessive space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the coupling mechanism directly into the connection port structure, merging the previously separate coupling components with the port housing. This integration eliminates the need for external threaded or bayonet couplings, thereby reducing overall device volume while maintaining connection reliability through the built-in securing features.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling features are nested within the connection port structure itself, with securing elements positioned inside the port housing rather than as external attachments. This nesting approach allows the coupling mechanism to occupy minimal space within the existing port volume, reducing the overall multiport footprint while ensuring secure connector attachment.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate receptacles are attached to the housing for hardened connectors, then optical connection capability is provided, but the housing becomes excessively bulky and inflexible
Solution Approach 1:
The connection port structure is designed to universally accommodate different connector types directly through integrated securing features, eliminating the need for separate specialized receptacles for hardened connectors. This multi-functional design allows the same port structure to serve multiple connection purposes while maintaining housing compactness and shape flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the functions of separate receptacles and coupling mechanisms into a single integrated connection port structure. By merging these previously distinct components, the housing maintains its structural integrity and flexibility while providing robust optical connection capabilities through the unified port design.
3Volume of stationary object
If connection ports are arranged in dense arrays, then space requirements are reduced, but organizational and aesthetic challenges increase in limited deployment environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements distinct securing feature designs for different port types (e.g., different actuation mechanisms or visual indicators for various connector positions), allowing operators to quickly identify and access specific ports. This local differentiation within the dense array maintains ease of operation and organization while achieving compact space occupancy through high port density.
Data Source
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AI summary
Multiports having connection ports with associated securing features and methods for making the same are disclosed. In one embodiment comprises a multiport for providing an optical connection comprising a shell, a connection port insert, and at least one securing feature. The shell comprises a first end having a first opening leading to a cavity. The connection port insert comprises a body having a front face and at least one connection port comprising an optical connector opening extending from the front face into the connection port insert with a connection port passageway extending through part of the connection port insert to a rear portion, where the connection port insert is sized so that at least a portion of the connection port insert fits into the first opening and the cavity of the shell. The at least one securing feature is associated with the at least one connection port.