Elastomeric Fiber-Optic Connector Mating Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mechanical connector interfaces for fiber-optic terminations in optical test instruments are fragile and prone to damage, making them costly and difficult to manufacture, while also requiring complex manufacturing processes.
Innovation Solution
A mating assembly using a rigid tubular body with elastomeric features that provide static friction to securely hold and align fiber-optic ferrules without the need for screw-threaded mechanisms, utilizing a rubber ring that deforms to engage with the ferrule's smooth surface for retention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a split ceramic sleeve or metal hook is used to retain the ferrule, then the connector can be quickly connected and released, but the mechanism becomes fragile and prone to damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces fragile, expensive retention mechanisms (split ceramic sleeves, metal hooks) with a simple, robust alternative that can withstand mechanical impact and repeated use. The new design uses a resilient member that deforms elastically to provide retention force, making the connector interface durable and resistant to damage from mechanical shocks during field operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the physical state and properties of the retention mechanism by using an elastomeric or resilient member that undergoes elastic deformation. This member can be compressed to release the ferrule and naturally returns to its original shape to provide retention force, transforming the retention mechanism from a rigid, fragile structure to a flexible, durable one that adapts to mechanical stresses.
2Ease of operation
If a split ceramic sleeve is used to provide retention force, then the connector can be easily disconnected, but the sleeve often ruptures on mechanical impact or with use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a composite structure combining a rigid body with a resilient member made of elastomeric material. This composite design integrates the strength and dimensional stability of rigid materials with the flexibility and impact resistance of elastomeric materials, creating a connector interface that is both easy to operate and resistant to mechanical damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses a resilient member with elastomeric properties that can flex and deform elastically under mechanical impact or during insertion/removal operations. This flexible element absorbs mechanical shocks and stresses, preventing the rupture that occurs with rigid ceramic sleeves while maintaining easy disconnection through compression of the elastomeric member.
3Productivity
If a metal tip with a hook is used to retain the ferrule, then the connector can be quickly mated, but the tip is very susceptible to distortion by mechanical impact
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameters of the retention mechanism from rigid metal to elastomeric material that can undergo elastic deformation. This resilient member maintains its functional geometry through elastic recovery after deformation, allowing quick mating operations while resisting permanent distortion from mechanical impact that plagues rigid metal hooks.
4Ease of operation
If a split ceramic sleeve is used to accommodate the ferrule, then the connector can be easily inserted, but the manufacturing process is difficult and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive, difficult-to-manufacture components (split ceramic sleeves requiring precise machining and assembly) with simpler, more cost-effective alternatives using elastomeric members that can be molded or formed into the required shape. This reduces manufacturing complexity and cost while maintaining easy insertion through the elastic deformation of the resilient member.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses an elastomeric resilient member that can be manufactured through molding or forming processes rather than complex machining and assembly required for split ceramic sleeves. This flexible component naturally accommodates the ferrule through elastic deformation, simplifying both manufacturing and insertion operations.
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 provides a robust, low-cost, and easy-to-manufacture interface that securely aligns and retains fiber-optic ferrules during testing, preventing accidental detachment while allowing for easy release, thus enhancing the efficiency and reliability of optical tests.
Implementation Method 1
The mating assembly employs the static friction of a rubber contact surface to provide the necessary retaining force
Implementation Method 2
at least one deformable elastomeric feature extending inwardly into the holding body to frictionally engage on a smooth external surface of said fiber-optic ferrule
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided a mating assembly for mating a fiber-optic termination comprising a fiber-optic ferrule to an optical test instrument. The mating assembly comprises: a holding body having internal tubular dimensions substantially complementary to corresponding external dimensions of the fiber-optic ferrule of said fiber-optic termination, to hold the fiber-optic ferrule in a given alignment relative to the optical test instrument; and at least one deformable elastomeric feature extending inwardly in the holding body to frictionally engage on a smooth external surface of said fiber-optic ferrule and to provide friction thereon to retain said fiber-optic ferrule.