Fiber Optic Connector Shuttle Mechanism for Rapid Service Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional systems for connecting and disconnecting fiber optic cables in network distribution systems are cumbersome and require specialized training and equipment, making it difficult to switch service providers efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A fiber optic connector with a movable shuttle that can be switched between connected and disconnected positions using a selector mechanism, allowing for rapid and efficient optical connection and disconnection of fiber optic cables without the need for splicing or modification of the cables.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional splicing or connector methods are used to connect fiber optic cables, then reliable optical connection is achieved, but the process requires specialized training and equipment and substantial time to complete
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the fiber optic network into modular segments with pre-terminated connectors. Each network element (switch, router, server) has pre-configured fiber optic connectors that can be quickly mated with cable assemblies, eliminating the need for field splicing while maintaining reliable optical connections.
Solution Approach 2:
Fiber optic cables are pre-terminated with connectors at the factory or in a controlled environment before deployment. This preliminary action ensures proper alignment and connection quality without requiring specialized splicing equipment or training during installation or reconfiguration.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual splicing or connector insertion is used to switch service providers, then service switching is achieved, but substantial time and specialized equipment are required
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs dynamic, easily movable connector assemblies that can be quickly inserted and removed from network elements. The connector design includes features like push-to-connect mechanisms and alignment guides that enable rapid service provider switching without time-consuming manual splicing procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
Pre-terminated cable assemblies with connectors serve as intermediaries between different service providers and network elements. These standardized connectors enable quick switching by simply plugging in different cable assemblies, eliminating the need for complex field splicing operations.
3Ease of manufacture
If fiber optic cables are spliced or terminated in the field, then connection is achieved, but specialized training and equipment are required
Solution Approach 1:
The fiber optic system is segmented into pre-terminated modules with factory-applied connectors. This eliminates the need for field splicing equipment and training, as all complex termination work is completed in a controlled manufacturing environment using automated equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector design enables end-users or technicians without specialized training to perform connections using simple plug-and-play mechanisms. The self-aligning features and user-friendly connector interfaces allow anyone to terminate connections without specialized knowledge or equipment.
Data Source
AI summary
A fiber optic connector may include a body, at least one input coupling configured to receive at least one fiber optic input cable, at least one output coupling configured to receive at least one fiber optic output cable, and at least one shuttle. The shuttle may be movable within the body between a connected position and a disconnected position, wherein the at least one fiber optic input cable and the at least one fiber optic output cable are optically connected when the at least one shuttle is in the connected position, and wherein the at least one fiber optic input cable and the at least one fiber optic output cable are not optically connected when the at least one shuttle is in the disconnected position.