Fiber Optic Connector Crimp Ring and Body Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for fiber optic connector designs that can securely attach hardened connectors to fiber optic cables, even when the connector was not originally designed for that specific cable type, while ensuring reliable sealing and strain relief.
Innovation Solution
The use of a crimp ring and crimp body assembly, where strength members of the fiber optic cable are crimped over a crimp body and a crimp ring, with a locking element securing the connector body, and heat shrink elements providing sealing, allows for secure attachment of connectors to various fiber optic cables.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a hardened connector is securely attached to a fiber optic cable, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases due to the need for crimp ring, crimp body, and locking elements
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly is divided into distinct functional components: a crimp body for initial cable attachment, a crimp ring for additional securing, and locking elements for final fixation. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while maintaining overall reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The crimp body is installed first to provide preliminary attachment and strain relief, creating a stable foundation before the crimp ring and locking elements are added. This preliminary action ensures proper positioning and reduces stress on subsequent assembly steps.
2Manufacturing precision
If a connector is designed to work with specific cable types, then manufacturing precision is improved, but adaptability decreases when attaching to different cable types
Solution Approach 1:
The crimp body and crimp ring assembly is designed with universal compatibility features that allow it to attach to various fiber optic cable types (single-mode, multi-mode, different jacket materials) while maintaining precise mechanical engagement. The modular design accommodates different cable configurations without requiring custom connector designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The assembly allows for parameter adjustments in cable preparation (stripping lengths, strength member handling) to accommodate different cable types while maintaining consistent crimping forces and geometric relationships. The crimp ring and body can be adjusted to work with various cable diameters and construction types.
3Reliability
If strength members are pulled back and crimped over the cable jacket, then strain relief is improved, but the attachment process becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The strength members are pulled back and positioned over the cable jacket before the crimp body is installed. This preliminary positioning ensures proper alignment and distribution of strength members, making the subsequent crimping operation more straightforward and reliable.
Solution Approach 2:
The crimp body acts as an intermediary component that distributes the crimping force across multiple strength members and the cable jacket. This intermediary structure simplifies the attachment process by providing a standardized interface between the connector and various cable types, reducing the complexity of direct attachment.
4Reliability
If multiple components (crimp ring, crimp body, locking elements) are used, then secure attachment is improved, but manufacturing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The assembly process is segmented into distinct, standardized steps (crimp body installation, crimp ring installation, locking element insertion) that can be performed efficiently with specialized tools. Each segment is designed to be completed independently, allowing for optimized manufacturing workflows and quality control at each stage.
Solution Approach 2:
Components are pre-positioned and pre-aligned during assembly to minimize adjustment time. The crimp body provides preliminary structural support that facilitates subsequent steps, and locking elements are designed for quick insertion and engagement, reducing overall assembly time despite multiple components.
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
This solution enables secure attachment of connectors to fiber optic cables, ensuring reliable sealing and strain relief, even when the connector was not originally designed for that specific cable type, enhancing the flexibility and reliability of fiber optic network connections.
Implementation Method 1
Heat shrink elements are used to provide sealing
Data Source
AI summary
Fiber optic cable assemblies and methods of fabrication are disclosed. In one embodiment, a fiber optic cable assembly includes a fiber optic cable and a connector assembly. The connector assembly includes a connector body having a body passageway and a body aperture. The connector assembly further includes a crimp ring, a crimp body and a locking element. The crimp ring includes a first end, a second end, a crimp ring passageway, and a crimp ring aperture. The crimp body includes a crimp body passageway and one or more crimp features. The crimp body is crimped to the cable jacket such that the strength members wrap around the cable jacket and are disposed between the crimp body and the cable jacket. The second end of the crimp ring is crimped to the crimp body. The locking element is disposed within the body aperture and the crimp ring aperture.