Fiber Optic Micro Connector With Nested Alignment Sleeve
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fiber optic connectors face challenges in forming reliable and space-efficient optical connections, particularly in optical communication networks, where precise alignment and secure coupling of optical fibers are crucial for effective communication.
Innovation Solution
A micro connector kit comprising first and second ferrules integrated with micro connector housings, which are designed to be releasably coupled, featuring alignment sleeves and biasing springs to ensure precise alignment and secure optical connections, preventing rotation and facilitating easy assembly and disassembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If traditional fiber optic connectors are used, then reliable optical connections can be formed, but the connectors occupy excessive space and reduce space efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into separate modular components including a housing, alignment sleeve, and coupling mechanisms that can be assembled independently. This segmentation allows for compact design while maintaining connection reliability through precise assembly of individual elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment sleeve is nested within the housing, and the ferrules are nested within the alignment sleeve, creating a compact nested structure. This nesting arrangement minimizes the overall connector volume while ensuring precise alignment and reliable optical connection between fibers.
2Measurement precision
If conventional connector designs are used, then optical fibers can be connected, but precise alignment is difficult to achieve
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment sleeve serves as an intermediary component between the two ferrules, providing a precise mating interface that automatically aligns the optical fibers. This intermediary element simplifies the alignment process while achieving high positioning precision through its tapered bore design.
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment sleeve is pre-configured with a tapered bore that guides the ferrules into proper alignment during insertion. This preliminary geometric configuration ensures precise alignment is achieved automatically through the insertion motion itself, without requiring complex external alignment mechanisms.
3Reliability
If secure coupling mechanisms are implemented, then reliable connections are achieved, but the assembly and disassembly processes become complex
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism incorporates movable elements such as spring-loaded lugs or bayonet-style engagement features that dynamically transition between locked and unlocked states. This dynamic design provides secure connection when engaged while allowing simple one-handed operation for assembly and disassembly through rotational or linear motion.
Data Source
AI summary
A micro connector kit includes first and second ferrules and first and second micro connector ferrule housings. Each first and second micro connector ferrule housing defines a cavity sized and shaped to receive a respective one of the first and second ferrules with the first and second ferrules being disposed in closely spaced relation with the respective first or second micro connector ferrule housing when in each cavity. The first and second micro connector ferrule housings can be releasably coupled together such that the first and second ferrules form an optical connection when the first and second micro connector ferrule housings are coupled together. The first and second micro connector ferrule housings have first and second connection structure for releasably coupling the first and second micro connector housings together.