Fiber Optic Connector With Integrated Signal Modification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current fiber optic connectors lack cost-effective and compact methods to incorporate enhanced functionality such as signal filtration, monitoring, and connector presence detection.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a signal modification structure between a stub optical fiber and a fiber optic cable, which can include signal filtration, splitting, or reflecting properties, without significantly increasing the connector's size or cost, using a configuration that supports multiple transmission modes over a predetermined wavelength range.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a signal modification structure is incorporated into the fiber optic connector to provide enhanced functionality (signal filtration, monitoring, etc.), then the functionality and versatility of the connector is improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the signal modification structure directly within the ferrule assembly of the fiber optic connector, merging multiple functions (connection, alignment, and signal modification) into a single integrated component. This eliminates the need for separate signal modification devices and reduces overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The ferrule assembly is designed to serve multiple functions: it provides mechanical support and alignment for the optical fiber, maintains the physical connection between connectors, and simultaneously houses the signal modification structure that performs signal filtration, monitoring, or other optical modifications. This multi-functionality approach reduces the need for additional separate components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a signal modification structure is incorporated into the fiber optic connector, then enhanced functionality is achieved, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the signal modification structure within the existing ferrule assembly during the manufacturing process, the patent eliminates the need for separate assembly steps and additional components. This consolidation reduces manufacturing complexity and cost while providing enhanced functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The ferrule assembly is designed to inherently provide signal modification capabilities through its integrated structure, eliminating the need for external signal modification devices. The connector itself performs the signal modification function, reducing overall system cost.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the connector design is enhanced with additional functional structures, then the versatility is improved, but the size and volume of the connector increases
Solution Approach 1:
The signal modification structure is nested within the existing ferrule assembly, utilizing the internal space of the existing connector components. This nested arrangement allows the addition of functional elements without increasing the external dimensions of the connector.
Solution Approach 2:
By merging the signal modification structure with the ferrule assembly, the patent achieves enhanced functionality within the existing connector footprint. The integrated design eliminates the need for additional space that would be required if separate signal modification components were used.
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
The solution provides enhanced functionality like signal filtration and monitoring while maintaining a compact and cost-effective design, integrating the signal modification structure within the connector assembly to support various optical functions.
Implementation Method 1
the signal modification structure may include signal filtration properties
Implementation Method 2
the signal modification structure may include signal reflecting properties
Data Source
AI summary
A fiber optic cable and connector assembly is disclosed. The assembly includes a cable optical fiber, a ferrule, a stub optical fiber having a first portion supported within the ferrule a second portion the projects rearwardly the ferrule and a signal modification structure optically coupled between the stub optical fiber and the cable optical fiber.