Mini Duplex Fiber Connector With Push-Pull Polarity Change
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Solution Overview
Problem
The LC connector's large footprint in high-density applications limits its use due to space constraints, and existing solutions do not effectively reduce the connector's size while maintaining ease of insertion and removal.
Innovation Solution
A fiber optic connector design with a reduced footprint, utilizing an LC fiber optic ferrule and an insertion/removal tool that ensures correct polarity and allows for field-changing of polarity, along with a self-returning mechanism for the tool.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the LC connector is used, then a single optical fiber and ferrule per housing is achieved, but the footprint is too large for high-density applications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two ferrule assemblies into a single housing, creating a duplex connector that accommodates two optical fibers simultaneously. This merging approach reduces the overall footprint compared to using two separate LC connectors, enabling high-density applications while maintaining proper fiber alignment and connection functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector transitions from a single-fiber configuration to a dual-ferrule arrangement within the same housing footprint. By organizing two ferrule assemblies side-by-side in the housing, the design achieves doubled capacity without proportionally increasing the connector's external dimensions, effectively utilizing spatial arrangement to overcome the footprint limitation.
2Area of stationary object
If the footprint is reduced, then high-density applications become feasible, but insertion and removal become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a push-pull latch mechanism as an intermediary component that mediates between the user's manual force and the connector's engagement. This latch system provides mechanical advantage, allowing easy insertion and removal of the compact duplex connector despite its reduced footprint, by translating simple push-pull motions into the necessary engagement and disengagement forces.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector incorporates a dynamic latch mechanism that transitions between engaged and disengaged states through push-pull motion. This dynamic element allows the compact connector to be easily installed and removed by users, converting simple linear forces into the complex mechanical actions required for secure connection and release, thereby maintaining ease of operation despite the reduced size.
3Area of stationary object
If a compact design is implemented, then space constraints are addressed, but polarity verification and changing become complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs color-coded indicators or markings on the connector housing and ferrules to indicate polarity orientation. This visual coding system allows users to quickly verify correct polarity during installation and to identify which ferrule should be swapped to change polarity, simplifying the process despite the compact duplex design. The color changes or markings provide intuitive guidance without adding mechanical complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The push-pull latch mechanism serves as an intermediary that also facilitates polarity changes. By designing the latch to control access to the ferrules, it provides a unified interface for both securing the connector and enabling polarity swaps. This single mechanism meditates between the user's actions and the internal ferrule configuration, simplifying polarity verification and changing procedures in the compact design.
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 reduces the overall footprint of the fiber optic connector, facilitates easy insertion and removal, ensures correct polarity, and allows for polarity changes in the field, addressing the space constraints and usability issues of traditional LC connectors.
Implementation Method 1
two springs, each spring engaging a rearward facing surface of a respective ferrule holder and extending towards the rear end of the housing, and a spring push engaging a rear portion of each of the two springs to bias the ferrule assemblies toward the front end of the housing
Data Source
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Figure 3~3A
Figure 4
AI summary
A new fiber optic connector provides a smaller form factor by including two ferrule assemblies in a housing. The housing accepts a push-pull mechanism that allows for insertion and removal from a carrier as well as an adapter. The push-pull mechanism may also include a flexure member to return the push-pull mechanism. Polarity of the fiber optic connector may also be selected by use of the push-pull mechanism.