Duplex-Modulo Optical Blindmate Connector Carrier Plate
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical communication systems face challenges in scalability and efficiency due to high-density fiber connectors, which result in increased optical losses and costs, while struggling to accommodate emerging high-bandwidth techniques that require fewer fibers.
Innovation Solution
The development of duplex-modulo optical blindmate connectors that use independently mating duplex ferrules to align and couple optical fibers, allowing for flexible and modular connections that reduce fiber count and insertion loss, while supporting multiple wavelengths on each fiber.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If high-density fiber connectors are used to accommodate more optical fibers, then the number of optical fibers that can be connected is increased, but optical losses increase and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connector system is divided into modular duplex connectors that can be independently configured and connected. Each connector handles a specific number of fibers (e.g., 2, 4, 6, 8) through modular assemblies, allowing the system to be segmented into manageable units that optimize optical performance while accommodating the required fiber count without the penalties of high-density packaging
Solution Approach 2:
The connector system allows dynamic configuration where duplex connectors can be selectively assembled and connected based on the actual fiber count requirements. This dynamic approach enables the system to adapt to different connectivity needs without being locked into a fixed high-density configuration, thereby optimizing optical losses for each specific application
2Quantity of substance
If high-density fiber connectors are used to accommodate more optical fibers, then the number of optical fibers that can be connected is increased, but costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is segmented into reusable carrier plates and duplex ferrule assemblies. The carrier plate serves as a cost-effective base structure that can support different configurations of duplex ferrules, eliminating the need for expensive custom-molded high-density connector bodies. This segmentation allows for simpler, more economical manufacturing while maintaining the ability to accommodate multiple fibers
Solution Approach 2:
The carrier plate design is universal and can accommodate different numbers and arrangements of duplex ferrules (2, 4, 6, or 8 fibers). This multi-functionality allows a single carrier plate design to serve multiple connectivity requirements, reducing the need for multiple specialized connector types and thereby lowering overall system costs
3Loss of energy
If emerging high-bandwidth techniques requiring fewer fibers are implemented, then optical signal power loss is reduced, but scalability and adaptability to different network topologies become more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The connector system enables dynamic scaling where duplex connectors can be selectively assembled and connected in different quantities and configurations based on network requirements. This dynamic modularity allows the system to scale from low-density to high-density deployments without being constrained by fixed connector designs, maintaining adaptability while optimizing optical performance for each configuration
Solution Approach 2:
The standardized carrier plate and duplex ferrule interfaces create a universal system that can accommodate various network topologies and scaling requirements. The same basic components can be arranged to support different fiber counts and connection patterns, providing versatility and adaptability across diverse network scenarios while maintaining optimal optical performance
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are provided for duplex-modulo connector comprising a carrier plate receiving a duplex ferrule. The carrier plate can include an entry slot that receives the duplex ferrule. The entry slot further includes neck spring leaves, and base spring leaves that support stabilizing the duplex ferrule and absorbing movement to support spring floating of the duplex ferrule. The duplex ferrule can include a receptacle connector housing, or a plug connector housing for aligning the duplex ferrule for blindmating with a complimentary duplex ferrule, wherein the carrier plate is coupled to the housing.