Compact Optical Multiports With Integrated Connector Securing Features
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional multiports for optical connections are bulky and inflexible, occupying excessive space and requiring complex coupling mechanisms, which limits their deployment in tight spaces and raises aesthetic concerns.
Innovation Solution
The development of multiports with integrated connection ports and securing features that allow direct insertion of fiber optic connectors, eliminating the need for bulky coupling nuts or bayonets, and enabling compact, dense, and organized arrays of connection ports suitable for various environments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional multiports use separate receptacles mounted through housing walls with threaded or bayonet couplings, then robust optical connections are achieved, but the housing becomes excessively bulky and requires significant surface area
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the coupling mechanism directly into the connector body by forming thread features on the outer surface of the connector housing. This merges the previously separate coupling nut or bayonet mechanism with the connector itself, eliminating the need for additional coupling components and reducing the overall housing surface area required for mounting multiple receptacles
Solution Approach 2:
The thread features are formed directly on the outer surface of the connector housing, nesting the coupling mechanism within the existing connector structure rather than adding external coupling components. This nested approach allows the coupling function to be embedded within the connector body, reducing the external footprint and housing surface area
2Reliability
If conventional multiports use separate receptacles with coupling mechanisms, then secure connector attachment is achieved, but the overall device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism is merged with the connector housing by forming thread features directly on the outer surface of the connector. This integration eliminates separate coupling nuts or bayonet mechanisms, reducing the number of discrete components and simplifying the overall multiport structure while maintaining secure attachment capability
Solution Approach 2:
The connector housing serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, contains the optical interface, and incorporates the coupling mechanism through integrated thread features. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized components, thereby reducing device complexity
3Reliability
If conventional multiports use large receptacles for hardened connectors, then reliable optical connections are made, but the housing becomes too bulky for tight spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism is merged into the connector housing structure through integrated thread features, eliminating the need for separate coupling components that would increase housing volume. This integration allows for more compact receptacle designs that maintain connection reliability while reducing overall housing volume
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the geometric parameters of the connector design by forming thread features directly on the connector housing outer surface. This parameter change enables more compact overall dimensions while maintaining the functional requirements for reliable optical connections, thereby reducing housing volume
Data Source
AI summary
Multiports having connection ports formed in the shell and associated securing features are disclosed. One aspect of the disclosure is directed to a multiport for providing an optical connection comprising a shell comprising a first portion, at least one connection port comprising an optical connector opening, and a connection port passageway formed in the first portion of the shell, where the at least one securing feature is associated with the at least one connection port.