Optical Fiber Connector Bayonet Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical fiber connectors with threaded connections are prone to loosening due to varying manual tightening forces, leading to reliability issues and increased insertion loss over time, especially in outdoor environments.
Innovation Solution
The optical fiber connector features a coupling shaft with an O-ring and groove for sealing, a chamfered plane for wrench alignment, a snap ring for positioning, and a ferrule-protected structure, along with a sealing tube and dustproof cap, providing enhanced sealing, anti-loosening, and alignment convenience, while using a low-cost flat drop cable with high stretching resistance and IP67 rating.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single threaded connection locking manner is used, then the connector can be assembled, but the threaded connection easily loosens after long-time vibration and consistency in lock effects cannot be ensured
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional threaded mechanical connection system with a bayonet-style quarter-turn locking mechanism. This mechanical substitution eliminates the loosening problem associated with threaded connections under vibration while ensuring consistent locking effects through a standardized quarter-turn operation that does not depend on variable manual tightening forces.
2Ease of operation
If a single threaded connection locking manner is used, then the connector structure is simple, but the operation is inconvenient requiring twisting in a circle many times
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a periodic action principle by designing a quarter-turn locking mechanism that completes the locking operation in a single 90-degree rotation rather than requiring multiple circular twists. This periodic quarter-turn action significantly reduces the time and convenience issues associated with traditional threaded connections while maintaining structural simplicity.
3Productivity
If field connector is used to terminate drop cable, then splicer is not required, but insertion loss is large and field success rate is low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-terminating the drop cable with factory-made connectors that feature precision-aligned ferrules and pre-assembled optical sub-assemblies. This preliminary factory preparation ensures low insertion loss and high connection reliability while enabling fast field installation without requiring splicing equipment or specialized skills, thus resolving both productivity and reliability concerns.
Data Source
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AI summary
Embodiments of the present invention provide a coupling shaft (134) configured to be used in an optical fiber connector, wherein the coupling shaft (134) comprises a body (1346) and a flange (1345),characterized in thatone end of the body (1346) is configured to connect to a connector sub-assembly (150) of the optical fiber connector, and the flange (1345) is provided with at least one hook groove (13451), wherein the hook groove (13451) is configured to hook a strength member (1102) of an optical cable (110), wherein the hook groove (13451) is an opening formed by cutting the flange (1345) and having an arc-shaped edge (13451c). Embodiments of the invention further provide a n optical fiber connector (100), comprising an optical cable (110); said coupling shaft (134); a connector sub-assembly (150), wherein one end of the connector sub-assembly (150) is connected to the body (1346), and the other end of the connector sub-assembly (150) is fastened to the optical cable (110).