Re-terminable LC Connector Assembly with Cam Actuation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Field installation of fiber optic connectors is labor-intensive and prone to errors due to the difficulty of endface polishing and crimping, which often results in irreversible connections that can damage the signal-passing function and require wasteful replacement of connectors and cables.
Innovation Solution
A re-terminable LC connector assembly with a spring-loaded ferrule holder and a reusable actuation system, utilizing a simplified fiber termination cam tool that allows reversible termination and repositioning of fiber optic cables, enabling field testing and easy correction of improper connections without the need for expensive equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If crimping is used to terminate fiber optic connectors, then the connection is secured, but the termination becomes irreversible and may damage the signal-passing function
Solution Approach 1:
The connector employs a dynamic latching mechanism with a resilient latch member that can be actuated between locked and unlocked states. The cam member interacts with the latch to provide reversible termination, allowing the connection to be secured during installation and released if adjustment or replacement is needed, eliminating the irreversible damage associated with crimping.
2Ease of manufacture
If standard pot and finish termination is used, then fiber optic connections can be made, but the process is extremely labor and expertise intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is pre-assembled with the fiber stub, ferrule, and latching mechanism in the factory. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for field installers to perform complex termination steps including fiber preparation, gluing, cleaving, and polishing, reducing installation time and expertise requirements while maintaining connection quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector incorporates a self-latching mechanism that automatically secures the fiber optic cable upon insertion and activation of the cam tool. The resilient latch member engages with the cam member to provide automatic retention without requiring manual fastening or complex assembly steps by the installer.
3Manufacturing precision
If automated polishing machines are used, then optimum endface geometry is achieved, but the equipment is large and expensive for field use
Solution Approach 1:
The fiber stub is pre-polished and pre-terminated at the factory using automated polishing equipment to achieve optimal endface geometry. This preliminary action transfers the precision polishing requirement from the field installation environment to the controlled factory setting, eliminating the need for portable polishing machines while ensuring high-quality connections.
4Loss of time
If fusion splicing is used, then labor time is reduced, but expensive equipment and splice protection storage are required
Solution Approach 1:
The connector uses a disposable or re-terminable fiber stub design that eliminates the need for expensive fusion splicing equipment. The pre-terminated fiber stub with integrated latching mechanism provides a cost-effective alternative that requires only simple hand tools for installation, reducing both equipment costs and storage requirements while maintaining acceptable installation time.
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
Facilitates efficient and error-free field termination of fiber optic cables by allowing reversible connections, reducing waste and labor costs, and enabling on-site testing and retermination, thus improving the efficiency and reliability of fiber optic installations.
Implementation Method 1
a compression spring trapped between the cam sleeve and the housing to forward bias the ferrule holder assembly in the uncamed position
Implementation Method 2
an internal cam mechanism of the connector assembly through rotation to releasably terminate the fiber connection
Data Source
AI summary
An improved, reversibly terminable fiber stub connector assembly is provided that can be readily and positively terminated in the field using simple termination tools. This allows repositioning or replacement of fiber optic cable field fibers if termination is not acceptable in performance. The tool may be a hand-held tool, or used in conjunction with a connector support structure to provide simplified and expeditious field termination of fiber optic cables. The cam tool can include a throughbore that enables connection of a patchcord to the stub fiber of the connector during or shortly after termination without removal of the termination tool. Accordingly, field testing of the connection can be made at the site of termination.