Dynamic Ferrule Seal for Vibration-Resistant Connectors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current fiber optic connectors maintain a permanent mechanical connection for sealing, which impairs compliance and stability under mechanical stresses like vibrations in the connected position.
Innovation Solution
The joint and ferrule are made integral, allowing the seal to move with the ferrule's position, ensuring sealing only in the disconnected state and using a spring or equivalent to compress the seal for effective sealing in that position, while allowing mechanical isolation in the connected state.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a permanent mechanical link is maintained for sealing along the entire contact stroke, then sealing is guaranteed regardless of ferrule position, but compliance in the inserted position is reduced and stability under mechanical stresses deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The seal is designed to move dynamically with the ferrule during insertion and extraction. The seal includes a portion that moves with the ferrule and a portion that remains stationary, creating a dynamic sealing solution that adapts to the ferrule's position rather than maintaining a fixed mechanical link throughout the stroke.
Solution Approach 2:
The seal is divided into multiple portions: a first portion that moves with the ferrule and a second portion that remains stationary. This segmentation allows different parts of the seal to perform different functions - the moving portion maintains sealing during extraction while the stationary portion provides structural support and sealing during insertion.
2Reliability
If a permanent mechanical link is maintained for sealing, then sealing is guaranteed, but resistance to mechanical stresses like vibrations deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The dynamic seal design allows the sealing interface to move with the ferrule, preventing stress concentration and improving resistance to vibrations and mechanical shocks. The seal adapts its position rather than maintaining rigid contact throughout the stroke.
Solution Approach 2:
The seal provides localized sealing quality at critical interfaces while allowing movement and compliance in other regions. The first portion of the seal provides sealing where needed during extraction, while the overall structure maintains stability and vibration resistance through its configuration.
3Reliability
If local sealing is maintained in the plugged-in position, then sealing is guaranteed, but mobility and compliance are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The seal transitions from a static to a dynamic configuration, moving with the ferrule during extraction to provide sealing when needed, while allowing full compliance and mobility during insertion. This dynamic behavior eliminates the need for permanent mechanical links that would restrict movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing function is extracted from a permanent mechanical link and implemented through a dynamic seal that only engages when needed. The seal is 'taken out' of the continuous mechanical connection and positioned to provide sealing specifically during the disconnected state, allowing full compliance during connection.
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 design ensures compliance and stability in the connected position by eliminating unnecessary sealing, which enhances the connector's mobility and resistance to external influences.
Implementation Method 1
by using the force of a spring or other equivalent means to compress the seal
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
AI summary
The contact is sealed when disconnected and compliant when connected. It comprises at least a contact body (1) in which the following are positioned: a transmission means (11) held in a support (13) at the end of which a ferrule (3) is positioned, the seal between the ferrule (3) and the transmission means (11) being provided by filling with a sealant product (12). A sealing means (2) is provided between the ferrule (3) and the contact body (1), said means creating a seal between the ferrule (3) and the contact body (1) when the contact is disconnected and allowing the mechanical isolation of the ferrule (3) relative to the contact body when the contact is connected.