Fiber Optic Connector Flexure Assembly for Bend and Seal Integrity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fiber optic connectors and cable assemblies lack robustness and reliability under various environmental conditions and handling practices, requiring enhancements for quick and trouble-free connections while maintaining integrity.
Innovation Solution
A connectorized cable assembly design featuring a multicomponent bending stiffness profile, including a connector housing, cable adapter, adapter extension, and multi-diametrical sealing flexure, with specific bending index values and Young's moduli to provide bend resistance and stress relief, utilizing materials like Polyetherimide, Polyethersulfone, and thermoplastic elastomers for enhanced durability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional rigid connector assemblies are used, then structural strength is maintained, but robustness and reliability under transverse loads deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by transitioning from rigid connector components to flexible components. Specifically, the cable adapter and adapter extension are made flexible to allow bending without damage, while maintaining sealing capability. This flexibility parameter change enables the connector to withstand transverse loads and pulling forces during installation and use, directly improving reliability under stress conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite materials by combining flexible materials for the cable adapter and adapter extension with sealing materials that maintain integrity under deformation. The multi-diametrical sealing flexure uses composite construction to provide both flexibility and sealing function, allowing the assembly to bend while maintaining environmental seals, thus resolving the contradiction between strength and reliability.
2Reliability
If flexible components are used to improve robustness, then resistance to bending stress improves, but seal integrity may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing flexure component undergoes parameter changes by being designed with specific flexibility characteristics that allow controlled bending. The flexure can deform to accommodate installation stresses and cable movements while maintaining its sealing function. This parameter optimization ensures that the seal remains intact even when the flexible components bend during installation or use.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies beforehand cushioning by incorporating the multi-diametrical sealing flexure that is pre-designed to accommodate expected bending and stress conditions. The flexible sealing component is prepared in advance to absorb and distribute mechanical stresses, preventing seal failure before it occurs during installation or operational phases.
3Reliability
If adapter extensions are added to increase flexibility, then robustness improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies merging by integrating the adapter extension with the cable adapter into a single flexible assembly. Rather than treating them as completely separate rigid components, the design combines them into a unified flexible structure that simplifies the overall assembly process while maintaining robustness. This integration reduces the number of discrete parts and assembly steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The cable adapter and adapter extension are designed as multi-functional components that serve both mechanical support and sealing functions. The flexible cable adapter not only provides structural support but also incorporates sealing capabilities, eliminating the need for separate sealing components in some configurations. This multi-functionality reduces overall device complexity while maintaining reliability.
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 provides improved bend resistance and stress relief, ensuring reliable and durable fiber optic connections under varying conditions, protecting the optical fiber from undue stress during installation and use.
Implementation Method 1
The multi-diametrical sealing flexure comprises a cable engaging portion engaging an outer cable surface of the fiber optic cable, a housing engaging portion engaging an outer housing surface of the connector housing, and an intermediate flexure portion extending from the cable engaging portion to the housing engaging portion and engaging an outer extension surface of the adapter extension
Data Source
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AI summary
Fiber optic connectors, connector housings, connectorized cable assemblies, and methods for the connectorization of cable assemblies are provided with particular cable adapter features, adapter extensions, multi-diametrical sealing flexures, subcutaneous sealing elements, and combinations thereof, for improved connector and cable performance, integrity, and durability.