Fiber Optic Connector Pin Keeper With Field-Changeable Guide Pins
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Solution Overview
Problem
Fiber optic connectors with multiple components, such as MTP connectors, pose a challenge as it is difficult to change the configuration of guide pins once installed in the field without damaging the connector during disassembly and reassembly.
Innovation Solution
A pin-keeper mechanism is introduced, comprising a first and second portion with guide pin openings, a bridge connecting them, and latches that allow for the alignment and realignment of guide pin openings to facilitate the insertion or removal of guide pins within the fiber optic connector without disassembling other components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If guide pins are installed or removed in the field from fiber optic connectors, then the configuration can be changed to match different connector types, but the connector may be damaged during disassembly and reassembly
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the guide pin system into separable components: a pin keeper that remains with the connector and removable guide pins. This segmentation allows the guide pins to be removed and transferred between connectors without damaging the connector housing, resolving the contradiction between configurability and integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide pins are extracted as independent removable elements from the connector assembly. The pin keeper retains the guide pin openings and provides alignment features, while the guide pins themselves can be removed and reinstalled or transferred to different connectors, enabling configuration changes without compromising connector integrity.
2Ease of operation
If guide pins are removed or added in the field, then connector configuration can be adjusted, but the installer risks ruining the connector during disassembly and reassembly
Solution Approach 1:
The pin keeper is pre-installed in the connector with properly positioned guide pin openings and alignment features before field service is needed. This preliminary preparation allows installers to simply insert or remove guide pins without complex disassembly procedures, enabling easy field serviceability while eliminating damage risks associated with complicated reassembly processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The pin keeper acts as an intermediary component between the connector housing and the guide pins. It provides the guide pin openings and alignment features that facilitate easy guide pin installation and removal, while protecting the connector housing from damage during these operations. The pin keeper absorbs the mechanical interaction, preventing direct stress on the connector structure.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional fiber optic connectors are used without a pin keeper mechanism, then the structure is simpler, but guide pins cannot be changed in the field without damaging the connector
Solution Approach 1:
The pin keeper is designed to nest within the connector housing, providing guide pin openings and alignment features without adding significant external complexity. The guide pins nest within the pin keeper's openings, creating a compact integrated structure that enables configurability while maintaining a relatively simple overall connector design.
Data Source
AI summary
A new pin keeper and a connector that uses the pin keeper allows for installation and removal of guide pins within the pin keeper and the fiber optic connector in the field. The pin keeper may have latches that are accessible to disengage from a guide pin to allow removal or a tool may be used to widen openings in the pin keeper to allow the guide pins to be inserted or removed. Alternatively, the guide pin may be rotated to engage or disengage the pin keeper.