Fiber Optic Connector Core for Multi-Adapter Sealed Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fiber optic connectors lack versatility in compatibility with different styles and types of fiber optic connectors or adapters, particularly in ruggedized environments, and often require intermediate shrouds or seals that complicate installation and alignment.
Innovation Solution
A system for making fiber optic connectors that allows pre-terminated cables to be compatible with various styles or types of connectors or adapters, using interchangeable shrouds, fasteners, and seals, along with a connector core that can be used with both ruggedized and small form-factor adapters, and includes a helical guide feature for rotational alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a pre-terminated fiber optic cable is made compatible with multiple styles of connectors using interchangeable shrouds and outer housings, then the adaptability and versatility of the connection system is improved, but the device complexity increases due to multiple components and assembly variations
Solution Approach 1:
The connector core is designed with universal features that allow it to function with multiple types of adapters and connectors. The core includes a standardized ferrule assembly and coupling mechanism that can interface with different adapter styles (ruggedized, small form-factor, etc.), making a single core design compatible with multiple connector configurations without requiring completely different core designs for each connector type.
Solution Approach 2:
The fiber optic connector is divided into separate modular components: a standardized connector core and interchangeable outer assemblies (shrouds, housings, fasteners). This segmentation allows the core to remain simple and universal while the outer assemblies provide style-specific features. The modular design enables mixing and matching of components to create different connector configurations from the same core.
2Strength
If ruggedized connector assemblies with robust fastening arrangements are used to withstand large pull and side loading, then the strength and reliability of the connection is improved, but the ease of operation decreases due to more complex fastening mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening mechanisms incorporate dynamic elements that allow for easy installation and operation. For example, snap-fit fasteners provide automatic engagement with audible or tactile feedback, and threaded fasteners are designed with self-starting threads that guide proper engagement. The coupling mechanisms include alignment features that automatically orient components correctly during insertion, reducing the skill and time required for proper assembly while maintaining robust mechanical strength.
3Reliability
If different sealing arrangements are provided on different shrouds or housings to ensure environmental sealing, then the reliability in harsh environments is improved, but the device complexity increases due to multiple sealing configurations
Solution Approach 1:
Different sealing arrangements are applied to different outer assemblies based on their specific environmental requirements and application contexts. For example, ruggedized outdoor connectors may use IP67-rated seals with grommets and labyrinth seals, while indoor connectors may use simpler gasket seals. Each sealing arrangement is optimized for its local application needs rather than all connectors using the same over-engineered sealing system.
Solution Approach 2:
Sealing components are pre-assembled and pre-positioned on the outer assemblies during manufacturing, ensuring proper seal engagement before field installation. The connector cores include pre-formed sealing surfaces and alignment features that guide the sealing components into their correct positions, eliminating the need for field technicians to complexly assemble multiple sealing elements and ensuring consistent sealing quality.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a connector core is designed to work with both ruggedized and small form-factor adapters, then the adaptability of the core is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase to ensure proper fit and alignment with different adapter types
Solution Approach 1:
The connector core is designed with equipotential coupling surfaces and alignment features that provide a standardized interface geometry. By establishing a common reference plane and orientation system on the core, different adapter types can be designed to mate with this standardized interface while maintaining their own form-factor characteristics. This approach distributes the precision requirements across the adapter designs rather than requiring the core to achieve ultra-precise fit with every possible adapter variation.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a system for making or assembling fiber optic connectors that allows a pre-terminated fiber optic cable to be made compatible with any number of different styles or types of fiber optic connectors or fiber optic adapters. A connector core of the system can be used as a stand-alone connector with a small form-factor adapter.