Fiber Optic Connector Retractable Nose Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ferrule-less optical connectors face challenges in enhanced fiber end protection and alignment, particularly in single and multi-fiber connections, where fiber ends are prone to contamination and misalignment during coupling.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a shutter and a retractable nose piece in the fiber optic connector, which automatically open upon insertion into an adapter, providing initial and secondary protection to the fiber ends and assisting in precise alignment through V-grooves and spring-biased components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a ferrule-less optical connector design is used, then device complexity is reduced, but fiber end protection and alignment precision deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a nose piece as an intermediary component between the fiber end and the alignment groove. The nose piece includes a tapered section that guides the fiber end into proper alignment with the V-groove, and a flange that provides a stopping surface. This intermediary structure enables precise alignment without requiring complex ferrule mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The nose piece performs preliminary alignment actions before the fiber end reaches the final positioning point. The tapered section pre-positions the fiber end by guiding it along a controlled path, and the flange provides preliminary stopping control. This preliminary action sequence ensures accurate final alignment while simplifying the overall connector structure.
2Ease of operation
If fiber ends are exposed for connection, then ease of operation is improved, but fiber end contamination increases
Solution Approach 1:
The retractable nose piece performs preliminary protection by extending to cover the fiber end before connection operations begin. During insertion, the nose piece retracts in a controlled manner to expose the fiber end only when needed for alignment and connection, minimizing exposure time and contamination risk.
Solution Approach 2:
The nose piece transitions from a static protective cover to a dynamic, retractable component. It can extend to protect the fiber end and retract to allow access for connection operations. This dynamic behavior enables the system to adapt between protection mode and operation mode, balancing contamination prevention with ease of connection.
3Reliability
If a retractable nose piece is added, then fiber end protection is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The nose piece combines multiple functions into a single integrated component: it provides mechanical protection for the fiber end, serves as an alignment guide with its tapered section, provides positioning control with its flange, and acts as a stopping surface. By merging these functions into one component, the patent reduces overall device complexity compared to using separate elements for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The nose piece is designed as a multi-functional element that performs protection, alignment guidance, positioning, and stopping functions. This universal component replaces what would otherwise require multiple separate elements, thereby improving reliability through better fiber end protection while minimizing the increase in device complexity.
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
This solution enhances fiber protection and alignment, ensuring reliable optical connections by safeguarding the fiber ends from contamination and ensuring accurate registration with adapter alignment features, thereby improving the reliability and efficiency of fiber optic coupling.
Implementation Method 1
spring-biased components
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure relates to fiber optic connection systems including fiber optic connector having retractable noses for protecting bare fiber ends of ferrule-less connectors. In certain examples, the retractable noses are used in combination with protective shutters. In other examples, the retractable noses can accommodate multiple optical fibers.