Deflectable Locking Fiber Optic Connector for Harsh Environments
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fiber optic systems are not rugged enough to withstand harsh environmental factors such as vibration and debris, making them unsuitable for applications in harsh operating environments, and the permanent adhesive-based pigtailing method complicates maintenance and servicing by requiring entire system replacement when issues arise.
Innovation Solution
A separable locking fiber optic connector that is compatible with existing LC receptacles, featuring a deflectable locking member and ledges to securely engage with the receptacle, allowing for tool-assisted disconnection and reconnection, enhancing serviceability and durability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If adhesive-based pigtailing is used to permanently affix the fiber optic cable to the active device, then the connection strength is improved, but the serviceability deteriorates because the entire system must be replaced when something goes wrong
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the connection system into separable segments: a connector assembly that can be detached from the receptacle. This allows the fiber optic cable portion to be replaced independently from the active device, resolving the contradiction between strong connection and ease of repair by providing both permanent bonding within segments and temporary bonding between segments.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking member transitions from a locked state (providing strong connection) to an unlocked state (enabling separation). The deflectable portion allows the locking member to move between engaged and disengaged positions, dynamic switching between strong connection and serviceability modes.
2Ease of operation
If conventional pluggable interfaces are used, then the serviceability is improved, but the ruggedness deteriorates because they cannot withstand excessive vibration, shock, and debris in harsh operating environments
Solution Approach 1:
The locking member features a deflectable portion with curved geometry that allows controlled deflection under vibration and shock loads. This curved design absorbs mechanical stress while maintaining the locked position, enhancing ruggedness without compromising serviceability.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector assembly combines metal components (housing, locking member) with optical components (ferrule, fiber optic cable). The metal parts provide ruggedness and EMI shielding for harsh environments, while the optical components provide the necessary fiber optic functionality, creating a composite structure that achieves both reliability and serviceability.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the fiber optic cable and active device are permanently bonded, then the connection stability is improved, but the adaptability deteriorates because system upgrades require replacing the entire system
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into replaceable modules: the connector assembly can be detached and replaced with different connector assemblies to enable system upgrades without replacing the entire system, while maintaining stable connections during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The design allows the connector assembly to be discarded (removed) and recovered (reused or replaced) independently from the active device. This enables selective replacement of worn or obsolete connectors while retaining the active device, improving adaptability without compromising connection stability during use.
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
The connector provides a rugged and serviceable interface between fiber optic cables and active devices, enabling maintenance and upgrades without replacing the entire system, thus improving reliability and reducing downtime in harsh environments.
Implementation Method 1
a deflectable locking member including a base attached to the housing, a deflectable portion having a first end extending from the base and a second end wider than the first end in a first direction orthogonal to the longitudinal passage
Data Source
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AI summary
Provided is a fiber optic connector including a housing sized to fit within a fiber optic receptacle and having a longitudinal passage for receiving a fiber optic terminus, and a deflectable locking member including a base attached to the housing, a deflectable portion having a first end extending from the base and a second end wider than the first end in a first direction orthogonal to the longitudinal passage, and ledges extending downward from the second end of the deflectable portion toward the longitudinal passage for engaging with a wall of the fiber optic receptacle to prevent accidental separation of the housing from the receptacle.