Multi-Core Fiber to Single-Core Fanout Connector
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical network technologies face challenges in efficiently routing and manipulating the multiple cores of multi-core fibers (MCFs) for applications such as patching, link testing, and data security, as they require separation and reordering of optical cores to different termination points, which is not easily achievable with conventional single-core fiber connectors.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for connecting multiple cores within a MCF to multiple single-core fibers, allowing for the use of conventional single-core connectors for terminations, and enabling the reordering of cores through a connector that holds single-core fibers in a pattern matching the MCF pattern, facilitating fanouts or jumpers with taps for efficient signal routing and security.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If multi-core fiber is used to increase optical fiber network density, then the number of light carrying paths per space is improved, but the difficulty of routing and manipulating multiple cores to different termination points increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the multi-core fiber into multiple single-core fiber segments, each terminated in separate ferrules. This segmentation allows each core to be independently routed and manipulated to different termination points while maintaining the high density advantage of MCF. The connector assembly holds multiple single-core ferrules in a pattern that corresponds to the MCF core arrangement, enabling easy identification and connection of individual cores.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary connector assembly that contains multiple single-core ferrules arranged in a pattern matching the MCF core configuration. This intermediary structure serves as a mediator between the MCF and conventional single-core connectors, facilitating the routing and manipulation of individual cores to different termination points without requiring direct handling of the bundled MCF cores.
2Ease of manufacture
If conventional single-core fiber connectors are used for MCF applications, then the ease of termination is improved, but the ability to maintain core pattern alignment and enable reordering deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal connector assembly that can handle both MCF and single-core fiber applications. The assembly includes multiple single-core ferrules arranged in a pattern that matches the MCF core configuration, allowing it to maintain core pattern alignment when connecting MCF. Simultaneously, each ferrule can be independently terminated using conventional single-core connector methods, providing versatility for different application requirements including reordering capabilities.
3Ease of operation
If multiple single core fibers are arranged in a single ferrule holder to mate with MCF cores, then the ease of manipulation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nested structure where multiple single-core ferrules are arranged within a larger connector assembly housing. The ferrules are positioned in a pattern that corresponds to the MCF core arrangement, and the entire assembly fits within a standardized connector envelope. This nesting approach consolidates multiple components into a single manageable unit that maintains ease of manipulation while organizing the complexity internally.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and system connects multiple cores within one fiber, e.g., a multi-core fiber (MCF), to multiple fibers with single-cores. The single-core fibers can then be terminated by traditional envelopes, such as a single core LC envelope. A connector holds the single-core fibers into a pattern that matches a pattern of all, or a sub group, of the individual cores of the MCF. The single-core fibers may all be terminated to individual connectors to form a fanout or breakout cable. Alternatively, the single-core fibers may extend to another connector wherein the single-core fibers are regrouped into a pattern to mate with the cores of another MCF, hence forming a jumper. One or more of the single core fibers may be terminated along the length of the jumper to form a jumper with one or more tap accesses.