Fiber Optic Connector Twist-Lock Coupling for Fast Secure Mating
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fiber optic connection systems face challenges in achieving a fast and robust coupling mechanism that minimizes signal losses while allowing for easy assembly and disassembly, with existing threaded and bayonet connections requiring multiple turns and occupying significant space.
Innovation Solution
A fiber optic connector with partial threaded portions and a twist-to-lock mechanism that allows for axial insertion and rotation by less than a full turn, combined with a bayonet connection and floating ferrule alignment, enabling quick and secure engagement with an adapter assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a threaded locking mechanism is used to secure the fiber optic connector to the adapter, then the engagement strength is improved, but the assembly time increases due to requiring multiple turns
Solution Approach 1:
The threaded engagement mechanism is segmented into a multi-start thread configuration with multiple independent thread starts (e.g., 3-5 starts) around the connector circumference. This allows the connector to engage the adapter through multiple thread paths simultaneously, reducing the number of rotations needed from multiple full turns to a fraction of a turn while maintaining the required engagement strength through distributed thread contact.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a single-start threaded engagement (one-dimensional progression) to a multi-start threaded engagement (multi-dimensional parallel progression). By distributing thread starts around the circumference, the engagement process occurs along multiple parallel paths, effectively converting a sequential single-turn process into a concurrent multi-path process that achieves the same engagement strength in reduced time.
2Loss of time
If a bayonet connection mechanism is used for quick coupling, then the assembly time is reduced, but the engagement strength decreases compared to threaded connections
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the advantages of both bayonet and threaded connection mechanisms into a hybrid engagement system. The connector incorporates both a bayonet-style quick-coupling interface for rapid insertion and a threaded engagement mechanism for secure locking. This combination allows the system to achieve both the speed of bayonet connections (quick insertion) and the strength of threaded connections (secure locking) within a single unified coupling mechanism.
3Strength
If traditional fiber optic adapters are secured within an enclosure wall opening, then the mechanical retention is improved, but the space required between adapters increases to accommodate coupling nut engagement
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling nut is designed to nest within the adapter housing structure rather than requiring external engagement space. The nut is positioned and secured inside the adapter assembly, utilizing the existing housing cavity and structural features. This nested configuration eliminates the need for additional external space between adapters that would otherwise be required for tool engagement, while maintaining secure mechanical retention through internal locking features.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces an intermediary retention mechanism (such as a retaining ring, clip, or internal locking feature) that mediates between the coupling nut and the enclosure wall. This intermediary component provides the necessary mechanical retention and spacing function without requiring the full traditional coupling nut engagement space, effectively reducing the area between adapters while maintaining structural integrity.
4Reliability
If multiple full turns of the connector are required for threaded engagement, then the locking reliability is improved, but the productivity decreases due to slower connection speed
Solution Approach 1:
The connector and adapter are pre-aligned using keyway features, cam mechanisms, or guiding surfaces before the threaded engagement begins. This preliminary alignment action ensures that the threads are properly positioned and engaged from the start of the rotation, eliminating the need for multiple trial adjustments or full turns to achieve proper alignment. The pre-alignment maintains locking reliability by ensuring correct thread engagement while improving productivity by reducing the total rotation required.
Data Source
AI summary
A fiber optic connection system includes a fiber optic connector and an adapter assembly. The fiber optic connector is coupled to the adapter assembly with a fast coupling mechanism. The fast coupling mechanism allows the fiber optic connector to be mounted into the adapter assembly with rotation of the fiber optic connector relative to the adapter assembly less than a full turn.