Fiber Optic Connector Assembly With Nested Crimp Bodies for OSP Space Limits
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fiber optic networks face challenges in meeting outside plant (OSP) environmental conditions while requiring larger and more complex structures for multi-port optical connection terminals, leading to increased rent costs and space requirements.
Innovation Solution
A fiber optic connector assembly with an inner body assembly comprising a ferrule, spring, and crimp bodies that exerts a force along the longitudinal direction, and a fiber optic drop cable assembly with a transition apparatus to divide multi-fiber inputs into single-fiber outputs, suitable for OSP conditions, reducing size and complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If larger and more complex structures are used for multi-port optical connection terminals, then reliability and functionality for OSP environmental conditions are improved, but space requirements and rent costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly employs a nested structure where the ferrule is positioned within the connector body, and the spring is housed within the ferrule retention cavity. This nesting arrangement allows multiple functional elements to occupy overlapping spatial volumes, achieving reliable OSP connections while minimizing the overall footprint and space requirements at utility pole locations.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector assembly is divided into distinct functional segments: the connector body for structural support, the ferrule for precise fiber alignment, and the spring for mechanical retention. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently for its specific function while collectively providing reliable OSP environmental performance without requiring a monolithic large structure.
2Reliability
If larger and more complex structures are used for multi-port optical connection terminals, then functionality for OSP environmental conditions is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly merges multiple functions into a single integrated structure: the connector body simultaneously provides structural support, environmental sealing, and mounting capabilities. The ferrule integrates fiber alignment and positioning functions. This consolidation achieves OSP environmental durability without requiring separate complex subsystems for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector assembly is designed as a universal component that handles multiple optical fibers through a single standardized interface. The connector body accommodates various ferrule configurations, and the spring mechanism provides universal retention functionality. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity while maintaining environmental durability across different deployment scenarios.
3Ease of manufacture
If traditional connector structures are used, then ease of manufacture is maintained, but spatial requirements and associated costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The ferrule and spring are pre-assembled within the connector body in a controlled manufacturing environment, with the spring pre-compressed to the appropriate force. This preliminary assembly simplifies field installation by reducing the number of steps required at the utility pole location, while the compact nested design minimizes the installation space required without compromising manufacturing simplicity.
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 provides durable, reliable, and functional connections for fiber optic networks, reducing spatial requirements and costs by using compact, hardened structures suitable for OSP environments.
Implementation Method 1
The spring is positioned to exert a force to the ferrule and the first crimp body along the longitudinal direction
Data Source
AI summary
A fiber optic drop cable assembly and fiber optic connector assembly are provided. The connector assembly includes an inner body assembly extending along a longitudinal direction. The inner body assembly includes a second crimp body surrounding at least a portion of a first crimp body. An inner body housing surrounds at least a portion of a ferrule and a spring and is coupled to the first crimp body. The spring is positioned within the inner body housing and is positioned to exert a force to the ferrule and the first crimp body along the longitudinal direction. The inner body assembly forms a first end configured to receive a first optical fiber into the first and second crimp body. The inner body assembly forms a second end opening configured to receive a second optical fiber from the ferrule.