High-Density Fiber Connector with Elastic Arm Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fiber connectors and their assembling processes fail to meet the need for high-density installation without increasing the physical volume of existing equipment, as they require a larger cross width for the end surface, which limits the density of fiber connections in optical access networks.
Innovation Solution
A high-density fiber connector design with a reduced cross width of 2.5 mm to 4.5 mm, featuring a connector casing with an elastic arm for secure locking, a ferrule fastened by a tailstock and spring, and a shield to prevent fiber damage, along with an assembling method that includes steps for preparing and fixing the fiber core within the ferrule and casing, allowing for easy insertion and removal without interfering with adjacent fibers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If conventional fiber connector structures are used, then structural strength and reliability are maintained, but the cross width of the end surface remains large, limiting installation density
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into front and rear casings that can be separately assembled, allowing for a more compact overall structure. The elastic arm is segmented from the main body, enabling independent operation for locking and release functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic arm is inserted into a cavity within the connector body, with the arm nesting within the casing structure. This nested arrangement reduces the overall cross width while maintaining the locking mechanism's functionality.
2Quantity of substance
If the cross width is reduced for high-density installation, then installation density increases, but structural strength may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The connector utilizes composite construction with a plastic casing and metal elastic arm, combining the lightweight, moldable properties of plastic with the high strength-to-weight ratio of metal to achieve both compact size and structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic arm features curved and rounded geometries that distribute stress more effectively than sharp angles, maintaining structural strength despite the reduced overall size of the connector.
3Reliability
If a locking mechanism is added for secure connection, then connection reliability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic arm provides automatic locking through its own elastic deformation when the connector is inserted, and can be released by simple manual pressure. The mechanism serves itself without requiring additional actuators or complex control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic arm functions as a flexible component that deforms elastically to provide locking force, using the material's inherent flexibility rather than rigid mechanical elements to achieve the locking function with minimal complexity.
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 enables a significant reduction in the overall dimension of the fiber connector, allowing for denser installation without compromising structural strength or utility, thereby increasing the installation density of fiber connectors.
Implementation Method 1
a spring, which is compressed between the ferrule tailstock and a thrust block formed by inner walls of the connector casing
Implementation Method 2
The tail pipe is enveloped by a metal pipe which is subject to compression deformation
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are a high-density fiber connector and an assembly method thereof. The connector, adapted for use with a fiber adapter, comprises a connector casing, a ferrule, a spring and a boot, wherein the connector casing has a cross width of 2.5 mm to 4.5 mm. The connector casing comprises a front casing and a rear casing, which lock up one another to form a cavity. The tail of the connector casing is connected with a boot. On the connector casing are sequentially arranged a guide block and an elastic arm from the front toward the back. A fixed end of the elastic arm is oriented toward the tail of the connector, while a free end faces an insert end of the connector and includes a retaining bump. The ferrule 2 is fastened with the ferrule tailstock 3 and penetrates through a through hole at the front of the connector casing. The spring is compressed between the ferrule tailstock and a thrust block formed by inner walls of the connector casing. The provided fiber connector has a significantly reduced cross width of between 2.5 mm and 4.5 mm at the engaging surface without, however, compromising the structural strength and utility functions, such that the fiber connector may be more densely installed.