Compliant Adapter for Fiber-Optic Connectors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional LC duplex fiber optic connector adapters are inefficient in terms of density and strength, particularly in high-density applications, as they are not compatible with larger footprints and reducing adapter thickness compromises strength.
Innovation Solution
A compliant adapter with a movable compliant piece that changes opening area from larger to smaller, allowing insertion into panels with smaller cutouts by compressing during insertion and returning to original shape, maintaining strength and compatibility with standard LC duplex footprint.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the thickness of the adapter wall is reduced to fit the standard cutout dimension, then the adapter can be compatible with standard LC/SC duplex connector cutouts, but the strength of the adapter is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter incorporates a compliant piece that can dynamically change its shape during insertion. The compliant piece transitions from a first configuration (providing structural support) to a second configuration (allowing insertion through tight cutouts), and then returns to the first configuration once inserted. This dynamic behavior allows the adapter to maintain strength while fitting through standard cutouts.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter changes its physical parameters (shape and dimensions) during the insertion process. The compliant piece transforms from an initial shape that provides structural integrity to a compressed shape that fits through the cutout, and then returns to its original shape. This parameter change enables the adapter to satisfy both strength requirements and dimensional constraints.
2Productivity
If high density connector formats are used, then the footprint and density are improved, but compatibility with standard LC duplex adapter footprint is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter uses a compliant piece that dynamically adjusts its shape during insertion to enable high-density formats to be installed in standard cutouts. The compliant piece compresses during insertion and then returns to its original shape, allowing the adapter to achieve both high density and standard footprint compatibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter changes its dimensional parameters during the insertion process. The compliant piece transforms from a larger initial shape to a compressed shape that fits through standard cutouts, enabling high-density connector formats to be compatible with standard LC duplex adapter footprints.
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
Enables backwards compatibility with standard LC duplex footprint without compromising strength or density, facilitating efficient and secure fiber-optic connector alignment and retention.
Implementation Method 1
a compliant piece disposed at the second end of the main body and movable between a relaxed position and a compressed position
Data Source
AI summary
A compliant adapter for fiber-optic connectors that are inserted into a cut-out in a panel include a main body extending between a first end and a second end and a compliant piece disposed at the second end of the main body that is movable between a relaxed position and a compressed position. The compliant adapter has a first opening area in the relaxed position and a smaller second opening area in the compressed position.