Fiber Optic Adaptor Shutter Assembly for Dust-Proof LC Mating
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fiber optic connectors face issues with insufficient protection from undesired particulates and ruggedness, particularly in rectangular cross-section connectors like LC connectors.
Innovation Solution
An adaptor design featuring a one-piece main body with a bushing and sleeve, a shutter assembly, and a shutter spring that pivots to provide improved dust proofing and durability, allowing the connector to be inserted without orthogonal angles, and a shutter that remains closed when not in use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If known adaptors are used for fiber optic connectors, then assembly can be performed, but protection from undesired particulates is insufficient and ruggedness and durability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The shutter assembly is integrated directly into the adaptor body, combining the dust protection function with the connector housing. The shutter is pivotally connected within the adaptor and works in conjunction with the retaining clip and spring mechanism that are part of the adaptor structure, eliminating the need for separate dust caps while providing superior particulate protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The shutter is positioned to automatically close and seal the adaptor opening before the connector is fully inserted. The spring-loaded mechanism pre-positions the shutter in a closed state, and the retaining clip holds it in place, providing particulate protection before the mating connection is established.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a shutter assembly with pivotally connected shutter is used, then protection from particulates is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The shutter assembly is designed to be self-actuating through the spring mechanism. The retained clip and spring combination automatically positions and secures the shutter without requiring external actuators or complex control systems. The spring provides continuous force to maintain the shutter in the closed protective position.
Solution Approach 2:
The shutter is pivotally connected rather than fixed, allowing it to dynamically adjust its position. The spring-loaded retaining clip enables the shutter to move between open and closed states while maintaining secure engagement, providing adaptive protection that responds to connector insertion and removal.
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 design enhances protection from particulates and improves ruggedness and durability, ensuring reliable operation and reduced assembly complexity.
Implementation Method 1
A shutter spring is positioned in the retaining clip along the slideable surface
Data Source
AI summary
An adaptor and a method for mating a fiber optic connector to an adaptor are provided. The adaptor includes a retaining clip including a slideable surface. A shutter spring is positioned along the slideable surface. A shutter is pivotally connected to the retaining clip from a first angle prior to insertion of the connector into the adaptor to a second angle after receiving the connector. A main body forms an opening through which the retaining clip is received. The connector is insertable through an opening formed by a bushing and a sleeve. The method includes sliding the shutter spring into the retaining clip, connecting the shutter to the shutter spring, biasing the shutter in a forward direction via the shutter spring held in a non-orthogonal angle prior to insertion of the connector, and inserting the retaining clip including the shutter and the shutter spring into the main body.