Fiber Optic Backplane Connector With Spacer for Limited Rear Clearance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing backplane connectors require significant space behind the backplane for fiber optic cable routing due to limited space between the backplane and the system chassis, and their assembly is inefficient, necessitating separate designs for different space constraints and multiple assembly steps.
Innovation Solution
A backplane connector kit with a spacer component that adjusts clearance and allows pre-assembly, using standard components to create additional space for fiber routing and reduce installation complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a standard backplane connector is used, then the connector provides reliable fiber optic connection, but it requires significant space behind the backplane for fiber routing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a spacer component that shifts the connector assembly forward along the longitudinal axis, effectively moving the fiber routing space requirement from the limited transverse space behind the backplane to the available longitudinal space in front of the backplane. This dimensional redistribution allows standard connectors to be used while accommodating fiber routing in systems with limited rear space.
Solution Approach 2:
The spacer acts as an intermediary component between the backplane and the connector assembly. It provides the necessary clearance and positioning, allowing the connector to be mounted while creating adequate space for fiber routing without modifying the standard connector design itself.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate connector designs are developed for different space constraints, then each design optimizes for its specific application, but it increases device complexity and manufacturing costs
Solution Approach 1:
The spacer component serves multiple functions: it provides space for fiber routing, positions the connector assembly correctly, and accommodates different connector types. By using this universal spacer approach, the system can handle various space constraints without requiring multiple specialized connector designs, thereby reducing overall complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector system is segmented into separate functional components: the standard connector assembly and the spacer. This segmentation allows the connector design to remain standardized while the spacer is customized based on specific space requirements, reducing the complexity of modifying the connector itself for different applications.
3Ease of operation
If conventional backplane connectors are assembled in situ, then the assembly can be done at installation location, but it requires multiple assembly steps and increases installation time
Solution Approach 1:
The spacer is designed to be pre-installed on the backplane before the connector assembly is mounted. This preliminary action simplifies the overall installation process by establishing the correct positioning and clearance in advance, allowing the connector to be quickly attached without complex alignment procedures during final installation.
Data Source
AI summary
A backplane connector kit configured for mounting on a backplane and comprising: (a) an insert; (b) a retainer defining a retainer length, and being configured to receive at least one ferrule of a cable assembly and to couple with the insert, thereby securing the cable assembly to the insert; (c) an outer shell; and (d) at least one spacer configured to allow a first end of the spacer to seat with a front side of the backplane, and a second end of the spacer to seat with the outer shell; wherein the length of the spacer is sufficiently long such that the spacer receives at least a portion of retainer such that no more than 50% of the retainer length extends beyond the back side of the backplane.