Ruggedized Fiber Optic Connector With Integrated Electrical Conductors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fiber optic connection systems lack the capability to simultaneously and effectively connect both optical and electrical circuits, leading to inefficiencies and complexities in high-speed data transmission systems.
Innovation Solution
A fiber optic and electrical connection system that includes a fiber optic cable with electrically conductive strength members, a ruggedized fiber optic connector, and a ruggedized fiber optic adapter, which allows for simultaneous optical and electrical connections through integrated electrical conductors and a ferrule sleeve.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If fiber optic cables are used for high speed data transmission, then data transmission speed is improved, but the capability to connect electrical circuits is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines optical fiber and electrical conductor functions into a single cable assembly. The cable includes both optical fibers for high-speed data transmission and electrical conductors (strength members) for electrical connections, allowing simultaneous optical and electrical connectivity without requiring separate cables.
Solution Approach 2:
The fiber optic cable is designed to serve multiple functions: optical signal transmission through fibers and electrical signal transmission through conductive strength members. The connector system universally supports both optical and electrical connections, making the system adaptable to diverse communication needs.
2Reliability
If separate optical and electrical connection systems are used, then connection reliability is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector integrates optical ferrule alignment and electrical conductor connection into a single unified interface. The adapter simultaneously aligns optical fibers and establishes electrical contacts, reducing the number of separate connection operations required while maintaining reliability of both optical and electrical connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector and adapter system performs multiple functions simultaneously: optical signal transmission, electrical signal transmission, and mechanical alignment. This multi-functional design reduces overall system complexity by eliminating the need for separate optical and electrical connection systems.
3Adaptability or versatility
If integrated electrical conductors are added to fiber optic cables, then versatility is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cable manufacturing process integrates electrical conductors (strength members) with optical fibers from the outset. The conductive strength members are incorporated during cable assembly, and the connector manufacturing integrates electrical contacts with optical ferrules, creating a unified component that simplifies final assembly despite increased initial manufacturing steps.
Data Source
AI summary
A fiber optic and electrical connection system includes a fiber optic cable, a ruggedized fiber optic connector, a ruggedized fiber optic adapter, and a fiber optic enclosure. The cable includes one or more electrically conducting strength members. The connector, the adapter, and the enclosure each have one or more electrical conductors. The cable is terminated by the connector with the conductors of the connector in electrical communication with the strength members. The conductors of the connector electrically contact the conductors of the adapter when the connector and the adapter are mechanically connected. And, the conductors of the adapter electrically contact the conductors of the enclosure when the adapter is mounted on the enclosure.