Optical Fiber Connector Crimp Retention Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Standard fiber optic connectors lack environmental protection and mechanical stability, particularly in extreme environments where cables may be exposed to weather conditions or physical stress, leading to disconnection issues.
Innovation Solution
A cable retention element with a cylindrical portion, radial flange, and crimp tube is integrated into the connector assembly to enhance pull-retention of the fiber optic cable, featuring a crimp tube that secures the retention member to the cable and a radial flange that engages with the connector housing to prevent disengagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If standard connector designs are used, then the connector assembly is simple and easy to install, but the cable lacks mechanical stability and environmental protection in extreme environments
Solution Approach 1:
The cable retention element is divided into distinct functional segments: a cylindrical portion for cable engagement, a radial flange for positioning and sealing, and a crimp tube for secure attachment. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function effectively while maintaining overall system reliability without excessive complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The cable retention element is nested within the connector housing, with the cylindrical portion receiving the cable, the radial flange engaging with the housing interior, and the crimp tube overlaying both the cable and retention member. This nested configuration provides enhanced mechanical stability while integrating smoothly into the existing connector structure.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If standard connector designs are used, then the installation process is straightforward, but the connector assembly provides no weather tight seal or environmental protection
Solution Approach 1:
Environmental protection is provided locally at critical interfaces rather than requiring complete redesign of the entire connector. The radial flange creates a localized sealing surface against the housing, and the crimp tube provides localized mechanical protection at the cable entry point, achieving weather tight sealing without compromising installation simplicity.
3Force
If standard connector designs are used, then the connector assembly is compact, but cables may be jostled or pulled and become loose or disengaged
Solution Approach 1:
The cable retention element is pre-assembled with the cylindrical portion, radial flange, and crimp tube configured in advance. During installation, the entire retention assembly is inserted as a unit and the crimp tube is crimped in a single action, providing high pull retention force without requiring multiple complex steps or additional tools.
Data Source
Figure 1~2B
Figure 2C~3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
A crimp connector is disclosed for enhancing pull-retention of a fiber optic cable in a fiber optic connector assembly housing. The connector has a flange for engaging with the housing and crimp member for engaging with the cable.