Compact Optical Multiports With Molded-In Securing Features
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multiports for optical connections are bulky and inflexible, occupying significant space and requiring complex coupling mechanisms, which limits their deployment in compact environments and raises aesthetic concerns.
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 coupling nuts or bayonets, and enabling a dense array of connection ports in a small form-factor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional coupling mechanisms (coupling nuts or bayonets) are used for fiber optic connectors, then secure connection is achieved, but the multiport becomes bulky and occupies significant space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the traditional coupling mechanisms (coupling nuts or bayonets) from the connection system. Instead of using these separate securing components, the invention integrates the securing function directly into the connector housing through molded-in features, removing the bulky external coupling elements while maintaining connection security
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the connector housing and securing features into a single integrated component. The securing features are molded directly into the connector housing, combining what were previously separate elements (connector body and coupling mechanism) into one unified structure, thereby reducing overall size and part count
2Reliability
If traditional coupling mechanisms are used, then reliable connection is achieved, but the design becomes complex requiring additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the complex multi-component coupling mechanisms from the system entirely. By extracting these separate securing components and replacing them with integrated molded features, the design complexity is significantly reduced while maintaining connection reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The invention combines multiple functions (connector housing, securing mechanism, and alignment features) into a single integrated component. This merging eliminates the need for assembly of multiple parts and simplifies the overall design while preserving reliable connection
3Ease of operation
If connection ports are spaced far apart, then ease of connector insertion is achieved, but port density decreases and space is wasted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different qualities to different parts of the connector interface. The securing features are designed with specific local geometries (such as tapered surfaces or snap-fit elements) that provide easy insertion and secure locking at the local connection point, while the overall port spacing can be minimized to increase density
4Volume of moving object
If compact form-factor is implemented, then space efficiency is improved, but traditional securing mechanisms cannot be accommodated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the securing function from external coupling mechanisms and relocates it to integrated features within the compact connector housing. This allows the multiport to achieve a compact form-factor while maintaining connection security through the molded-in securing features
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from external, protruding coupling mechanisms to internal, integrated securing features. By moving the securing function from the external dimension to the internal structure of the connector housing, the overall volume is reduced while connection security is maintained through clever use of internal geometry
Data Source
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.