Multi-fiber Optical Connector Spring Push Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

As network speeds increase, the need to accommodate more optical fibers in a single connector arises, leading to an increased biasing force required for stable connection, which in turn increases the force needed by users to connect the optical connectors.

Innovation Solution

A multi-fiber optical connector design that includes a ferrule with a connection end surface, a base end, and fiber holes for optical fibers, a first member facing the base end, a biasing member between the first member and the ferrule, and a spring push that presses the first member toward the connection end via rotational movement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the number of optical fibers in the optical connector is increased, then the connection stability is improved, but the force required for connection is increased

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection stabilityVSAvoidconnection force

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSForce

Solution Approach 1:

The spring push converts rotational movement into linear pressing force dynamically, allowing the connector to maintain stable connection with reduced user input force. The spring mechanism provides continuous adaptive pressure rather than rigid mechanical coupling.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The spring push acts as an intermediary between the user's rotational input and the ferrule's linear movement, transforming the connection action and reducing the direct force required on the connector body.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If the number of optical fibers in the optical connector is increased, then the connection stability is improved, but the ease of operation is worsened

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection stabilityVSAvoidconnection ease

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The spring push mechanism serves as an intermediary that transforms the user's rotational input into effective linear pressing force, making the connection process easier while maintaining stable contact between multiple fiber connectors.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

By converting rotational movement to linear motion through the spring mechanism, the connector provides a more ergonomic and easier operation compared to direct linear pressing, while ensuring reliable connection of multiple fibers.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

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

This design reduces the force required for connecting multi-fiber optical connectors, making the connection process easier and less burdensome for users.

Implementation Method 1

a spring push that presses the first member toward the connection end via rotational movement

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSpring: Spring

Data Source

PatentUS20250155650A1Multi-fiber optical connector and optical connection structure

Publication Date: 2025.05.15 FUJIKURA LTD

AI summary

A multi-fiber optical connector includes: a ferrule that includes a connection end provided with a connection end surface, a base end located on a side opposite to the connection end, and a plurality of fiber holes through which a plurality of optical fibers are insertable toward the connection end surface; a first member that is disposed to face the base end of the ferrule in a longitudinal direction in which the fiber holes extend; a biasing member that is disposed between the first member and the ferrule in the longitudinal direction, and biases the ferrule toward the connection end; and a spring push that presses the first member toward the connection end via rotational movement.