Molded Interconnect Device Optical Connector with Metal Retaining Clip
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical connectors in communication systems face challenges in securely aligning and stabilizing optical fibers with opto-electronic devices while preventing inadvertent disconnection and electromagnetic interference.
Innovation Solution
A molded interconnect device (MID) optical connector featuring a plastic body with integrated electrical elements and a metal retaining clip that exerts a spring force to stabilize the optical fiber ferrule, ensuring alignment and shielding against electromagnetic interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a retaining mechanism is used to prevent inadvertent removal of the ferrule, then connection reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining clip is integrated into the connector body as a unified structure, combining the retaining mechanism with the housing. This merging approach provides reliable retention while avoiding the complexity of separate, discrete retaining components and fastening operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The retaining clip utilizes the natural insertion motion of the ferrule to automatically engage and lock into position. The spring-loaded mechanism self-actuates during the plugging process, eliminating the need for external actuation or complex control systems.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a metal retaining clip is used to provide spring force for stabilization, then connection stability is improved, but susceptibility to electromagnetic interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
The plastic housing acts as an intermediary barrier between the metal retaining clip and the external electromagnetic environment. This intermediate structure shields the metal components from electromagnetic interference while allowing the clip to maintain its mechanical spring force for stabilization.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector employs a composite structure combining plastic and metal materials. The plastic body provides electromagnetic shielding and structural housing, while the metal retaining clip provides mechanical stability and spring force, achieving both stability and interference protection through material composition.
3Volume of moving object
If MID technology is used to integrate electrical and mechanical features, then device miniaturization is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Electrical contacts, circuit traces, and mechanical retaining features are integrated into a single molded plastic component. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate mounting of electrical and mechanical elements, achieving miniaturization while streamlining manufacturing through single-step injection molding.
Solution Approach 2:
The plastic housing serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support, electromagnetic shielding, electrical connection pathways, and mechanical retention features. This multi-functionality reduces the total component count and simplifies manufacturing compared to dedicated separate components for each function.
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 secure optical alignment, stability against vibrations, and effective shielding against electromagnetic interference, enhancing the reliability and performance of optical connections.
Implementation Method 1
The retaining clip exerts a spring force upon a portion of the ferrule when the ferrule is in the connected position
Implementation Method 2
ensuring alignment and shielding against electromagnetic interference
Data Source
AI summary
A molded interconnect device (MID) optical connector includes a molded plastic body and a metal retaining clip. The body has a receptacle portion shaped to receive and guide a mating optical fiber ferrule into a connected position. In the connected position, the end of a fiber retained in the ferrule is in optical alignment with an opto-electronic device in the MID optical connector. The retaining clip has one or more contact portions that extend into the receptacle portion of the body and exert a spring force upon the ferrule to retain and stabilize it in the connected position.