Multi-fiber Connector Optical Switch Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
The assembly requirements for optical switches are complex due to the need for N fiber tube assemblies and N lenses, making it technically challenging to reduce these requirements while maintaining reliability.
Innovation Solution
A mechanical transfer ferrule based optical switch utilizing a unique optical fiber tube unit and lens, which can be moved in two dimensions to connect to a specified optical fiber channel using a multi-fiber connector with a positioning assembly guided by holes or male pins, reducing the number of components needed and increasing reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If N fiber tube assemblies and N lenses are used in optical switch assembly, then the optical switch can achieve proper optical signal transmission, but the assembly requirements become complex and difficult to reduce
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple fiber tube assemblies and lenses into a single integrated multi-fiber connector assembly. The multi-fiber connector houses multiple fiber tubes in a unified structure with a single ferrule body, eliminating the need for separate assembly of N individual fiber tube assemblies and N lenses, thereby reducing assembly complexity while maintaining optical transmission reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The multi-fiber connector serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical support for multiple fiber tubes, maintains precise alignment, enables optical signal transmission, and facilitates easy connection/disconnection. This multi-functional design replaces what would otherwise require separate components and assembly steps, simplifying the overall assembly process
2Ease of manufacture
If multiple separate fiber tube assemblies and lenses are used, then optical signal transmission can be achieved, but the number of components increases making assembly more challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges N separate fiber tube assemblies and N lenses into a single multi-fiber connector assembly containing multiple fiber tubes within one ferrule body. This consolidation reduces the component count from 2N separate items to a single integrated assembly, significantly improving ease of manufacture and assembly
Solution Approach 2:
While reducing overall component quantity, the patent segments the fiber tubes and lenses into modular units within the multi-fiber connector. Each fiber tube can be independently positioned and secured within the ferrule, allowing for modular assembly that simplifies manufacturing while maintaining the benefits of integration
Data Source
AI summary
In some examples, a mechanical transfer ferrule based optical switch may include an optical fiber tube unit connectable to an end of an optical fiber. The optical fiber tube unit may include a lens to transmit light through the optical fiber. An optical fiber tube unit positioning assembly may include an optical fiber tube unit support detachably connectable to the optical fiber tube unit, and an optical fiber tube unit guide to operatively position the optical fiber tube unit support relative to a multi-fiber connector. The optical fiber tube unit guide may align the optical fiber tube unit and the lens to a specified lens of the multi-fiber connector, and connect the optical fiber to a specified optical fiber channel.