Miniature Multi-Fiber Ferrule Interconnects for Pulling-Sock Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing interconnect systems face challenges in accommodating miniature multi-fiber ferrules (TMT ferrules) within pulling socks due to their smaller size, which complicates installation and reduces packing density in data center applications.
Innovation Solution
A cable bundle design incorporating a push-pull stick with side latches, a ferrule push, a housing, and a dust cap, allowing the miniature multi-fiber ferrule to be included inside the pulling sock, along with a ferrule push and dust cap, enabling easier installation and higher packing density.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional MT ferrules are used in pulling socks, then the ferrules can be easily installed, but the spatial density and bandwidth accommodation are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by transitioning from conventional MT ferrule dimensions to miniature TMT ferrule dimensions (1.25mm height, 4mm length, 6.4mm width). This dimensional parameter change enables higher spatial density in data center interconnects while maintaining the same functional capabilities, directly resolving the contradiction between installation efficiency and ferrule footprint.
2Quantity of substance
If TMT ferrules are included inside the pulling sock, then packing density increases, but the MPO housing is too big to fit inside the pulling sock
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the connector assembly into separate components: the miniature TMT ferrule with its push-pull stick and ferrule push are placed inside the pulling sock, while the MPO housing is excluded. This segmentation allows the ferrules to be pre-positioned in the pulling sock for high packing density, and the housing to be attached separately at the installation location, resolving the volume constraint.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-installing the TMT ferrules with push-pull sticks and ferrule pushes inside the pulling sock before cable installation. This preliminary preparation enables faster on-site assembly where only the housing needs to be attached to the pre-positioned ferrules, improving installation efficiency while maximizing pulling sock utilization.
3Ease of operation
If the MPO connector housing is pre-assembled with the adapter, then installation is simplified, but the housing cannot fit inside the pulling sock
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the connector assembly into two parts: the ferrule component (TMT ferrule, push-pull stick, ferrule push) that fits inside the pulling sock, and the MPO housing that is pre-assembled with the adapter. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by allowing the compact ferrule to be prepared in advance inside the pulling sock while the larger housing is installed separately, maintaining installation simplicity without volume conflict.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action in two ways: (1) pre-installing the TMT ferrules with push-pull mechanisms inside the pulling sock, and (2) pre-assembling the MPO housing with the adapter. This dual preliminary preparation eliminates on-site assembly complexity while respecting the pulling sock volume constraint, as each component is optimized for its respective preparation stage.
Data Source
AI summary
An optical interconnect assembly includes a pre-terminated trunk cable assembly with a cable bundle having a plurality of optical fiber trunk cables terminating in ribbonized groups of optical fiber and a plurality of terminated small form factor fiber optic connectors for inclusion in a pulling sock attached to the plurality of optical fiber trunk cables. Each of the connectors has a push-pull stick with a pair of side latches on opposing sides of the central portion, a ferrule push, a housing configured to engage the push-pull stick and the ferrule push, a miniature multi-fiber ferrule, and a dust cap. The components are provided inside the pulling sock with at least one additional one of the plurality of terminated small form factor fiber optic connector identical to the first small form factor fiber optic connector.