Fiber Optic Connector Clamp Structure for Ferrule Force Isolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for optical fiber connectors that effectively terminate fiber optic drop cables while minimizing the transfer of forces to sensitive internal components like the fiber optic ferrule.
Innovation Solution
The fiber optic connector design includes a housing with a back post and a cable clamp insert secured by a crimp ring, which is crimped onto the back post to create a firm connection, and complementary keying features to prevent rotation and twisting of the cable, thereby protecting the sensitive internal components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional connector design is used, then the structure is simple, but forces are transferred to sensitive internal components like the ferrule
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into distinct functional segments: an outer housing that receives and isolates force, an inner connector that maintains optical alignment, and a transition section that manages the interface between them. This segmentation allows forces to be contained in the outer housing while protecting the sensitive inner connector components.
Solution Approach 2:
A transition section acts as an intermediary element between the outer housing and the inner connector. This intermediate structure provides a gradual transition that prevents direct force transfer from the outer housing to the sensitive ferrule, while still maintaining structural integrity and optical alignment.
2Reliability
If force transfer to housing is increased, then protection of internal components is improved, but connection stability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the force transfer path into distinct zones (outer housing, transition section, inner connector), the design allows controlled force absorption in the outer housing while maintaining stable connections through the transition section's gradual transition features.
Solution Approach 2:
The transition section is designed with features that anticipate and cushion forces before they reach the sensitive inner connector. This pre-cushioning approach absorbs shocks and forces in advance, preventing them from compromising connection stability.
3Reliability
If a robust cable clamping mechanism is used, then force isolation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The outer housing serves multiple functions: it provides the structural framework, receives and isolates forces from cable installation, and contains the transition section. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized components, maintaining simplicity while achieving robust force isolation.
Data Source
AI summary
A fiber optic connector for terminating a drop cable comprises a housing having a front end portion and a rear end portion spaced apart along a longitudinal axis of the fiber optic connector; an inner connector configured to be received in the housing; a cable clamp insert configured to clamp onto the drop cable and be received in the housing, the cable clamp insert extending along the longitudinal axis; and a cable clamp retainer configured to couple to the rear end portion of the housing whereby the cable clamp retainer pushes the cable clamp insert forward in the housing. The cable clamp retainer is configured to apply an increasing force to create a tight connection between the housing and the cable clamp insert.