Low-Profile Fibre Splice Protector for Fast Connector Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical fibre connectors lack effective and efficient protection systems for splice sites, particularly in splice-on connectors, which are suitable for small structures and provide flexible protection.
Innovation Solution
A low-profile splice protector sleeve with a U-shaped cross-section is used in combination with a curable adhesive cement to stabilize and mechanically strengthen splice sites within the connector body, allowing easy lateral mounting and filling of gaps to protect multiple fibre splices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional splice protection system is used, then splice sites are protected, but the installation process is complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into separate functional components: a body portion, a distinct low-profile splice protector, and a cover. The splice protector can be installed independently before the cover, allowing parallel assembly steps and reducing overall installation time while maintaining protection functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The splice protector is pre-formed with a U-shaped cross-section and open ends, allowing fibres to be inserted and spliced in advance. The curable material is prepared in advance to fill the protector, enabling the splice to be completed and protected in a single operational step rather than requiring multiple sequential steps.
2Reliability
If a robust splice protection system is used, then splice sites are well-protected, but the connector structure becomes larger and more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The splice protector employs a thin-walled U-shaped structure with a low profile that provides adequate protection for splice sites. This thin-film approach maintains protection functionality while minimizing the added volume and structural complexity compared to traditional bulky protection systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The splice protector is nested within the connector body, and the cover is then placed over both the connector body and the splice protector. This nested arrangement integrates multiple protective functions into a compact hierarchical structure, reducing overall complexity while maintaining robust protection.
3Ease of operation
If a low-profile splice protector is used, then installation is easier and structure is compact, but protection coverage may be insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The splice protector combines a structural component (the U-shaped sleeve) with a curable protective material (adhesive cement or epoxy resin). This composite construction provides both mechanical support and environmental protection, ensuring adequate coverage and reliability despite the low-profile design.
Solution Approach 2:
The curable material undergoes a phase change from liquid to solid, transforming the splice protector from a simple mechanical barrier to a robust protective enclosure. This parameter change enables the low-profile structure to provide sufficient protection coverage by filling and sealing the protective enclosure around the splice.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a low-profile splice protection system for protecting multi-fibre fusion splice sites. The splice protection system comprises coating material to package the splice site and may comprise a protective housing.