Interlockable Fiber Optic Connector Adaptors for Dense Panel Arrays
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current fiber optic connector adaptors are limited in density due to their one-dimensional arrangement, resulting in wasted space between rows and columns, which cannot accommodate the increasing demand for optical fibers.
Innovation Solution
Configuring adaptors to be interconnectable from any side, allowing them to form a two-dimensional array where adjacent rows and columns abut, maximizing the density of fiber interconnection sites by using connection elements for releasable coupling with adjacent adaptors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If adaptors are arranged in a one-dimensional array with abutting surfaces touching, then the adaptors can be fixed or interlocked to form a single row or column, but space remains wasted between adjacent rows or columns
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from one-dimensional linear arrays to two-dimensional grid arrays by adding interconnection capability in the lateral direction. Connectors are designed with multiple interconnection interfaces that enable coupling not only in sequence along a row or column but also between adjacent rows or columns, effectively utilizing panel space in both dimensions.
Solution Approach 2:
The connectors are designed with universal interconnection capabilities that allow them to function in multiple directions and configurations. Each connector can interlock with adjacent connectors in various orientations, enabling flexible arrangement in one-dimensional or two-dimensional arrays depending on the application requirements.
2Ease of operation
If adaptors are interconnected to form a single directional row or column, then they can be installed as a unit in a patch panel, but the density of fiber interconnection sites is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent increases fiber interconnection density by expanding from one-dimensional linear arrangements to two-dimensional grid arrangements. The multi-directional interconnection interfaces allow connectors to be coupled in both longitudinal and lateral directions, effectively doubling the potential interconnection directions and maximizing the number of fiber connections per unit panel area.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs modular connector designs that can be nested or stacked in two-dimensional arrays. Each connector unit serves as a module that can be coupled with multiple neighboring modules, creating a compact grid structure that maximizes the number of interconnection sites within the available panel space.
Data Source
AI summary
Adaptors for providing a connection between fiber-optic cables may be configured to be interlocked in both side-by-side and top-to-bottom orientations with adjacent adaptors to eliminate wasted spaced between adjacent rows and/or columns of adaptors in a junction panel.