Duplex Mini LC Connector With Raised Keys For Port Density
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optoelectronic communication modules face challenges in accommodating duplex mini LC connectors due to limited space, preventing the simultaneous connection of two such connectors at the fiber-side end, which restricts bandwidth and port density.
Innovation Solution
A redesigned duplex mini LC connector with a body featuring two ferrules and raised keys on opposing sidewalls to accommodate coil springs, allowing for a smaller form factor that can be integrated into optoelectronic communication modules, enabling the connection of two connectors at the fiber-side end and increasing bandwidth.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the connector body width is reduced to accommodate two connectors at the fiber-side end, then port density increases, but the coil springs may not be properly accommodated within the body
Solution Approach 1:
The connector body is segmented by adding raised keys that divide the internal space into separate compartments. Each raised key creates a dedicated space for accommodating a coil spring, ensuring that the springs are properly positioned and contained within the reduced-width body structure.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of trying to fit the coil springs horizontally in a wider body, the design uses the vertical dimension by incorporating raised keys that extend upward from the body base. This creates vertical compartments that house the springs, effectively utilizing three-dimensional space to solve the accommodation problem in a compact width.
2Productivity
If the connector body width is reduced to accommodate two connectors, then bandwidth capacity doubles, but the structural integrity and spring function may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The body structure is segmented into distinct sections using raised keys, where each segment serves a specific function: some segments provide structural support while others accommodate the coil springs. This segmentation allows the body to maintain strength in critical areas while providing space for springs in dedicated compartments.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the connector body have different structural properties. The raised keys and their supporting structures are designed with appropriate wall thicknesses and reinforcement in areas requiring strength, while other areas are optimized for spring accommodation. This local differentiation of structural quality maintains overall integrity while enabling the compact design.
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 solution allows for a dual duplex optical interface with increased bandwidth by accommodating two mini LC connectors, doubling the bandwidth capacity of the optoelectronic communication module while maintaining a compact form factor.
Implementation Method 1
A first coil spring of the two coil springs is coaxial with the first fiber ferrule and a second coil spring of the two coil springs is coaxial with the second fiber ferrule
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A fiber optic connector (110) may include a body, a first fiber ferrule (302), and a second fiber ferrule (302). The first fiber ferrule may extend in a length direction of the body from a module-side end of the body. The second fiber ferrule may extend in the length direction of the body from the module-side end of the body and may be spaced apart from the first fiber ferrule in a width direction of the body. A maximum width in the width direction of a portion of the body configured to be received in a port of an optoelectronic communication module may be less than half a width of a fiber-side end of the optoelectronic communication module.