Multi-Fiber Splice Protector for MPO Connectors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fiber optic cable assemblies and splice protectors face challenges in accommodating intra-connector splices, particularly with MPO-type connectors, as they require protecting splices while allowing them to pass through small components, which compromises mechanical robustness and increases costs due to custom component fabrication needs.
Innovation Solution
A multi-fiber splice protector with a strength member featuring opposing walls connected along only one edge and unconnected wall extensions, allowing passage of multiple spliced optical fibers, integrated into a fiber optic cable assembly that includes fusion splices within a MPO connector, with a split jacket section and optional heat shrink tubing, optimized for compact design and reduced heat shrink tubing length.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional splice protectors are used to protect fusion splices in MPO connectors, then the splices are protected from mechanical damage and environmental factors, but the mechanical robustness of the connector is compromised and custom component fabrication is required increasing costs
Solution Approach 1:
The strength member is integrated directly into the MPO connector body, merging the structural support function with the connector housing. This eliminates the need for separate custom fabricated components and maintains full mechanical robustness while providing splice protection through the unified structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The strength member serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical support for the connector, protects fusion splices from damage, and maintains the structural integrity of the overall assembly. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate protective components.
2Reliability
If conventional splice protectors with heat shrink tubing are used, then splices are protected, but the assembly requires extensive heat shrink tubing and complex fabrication processes
Solution Approach 1:
The strength member is formed as an integrated part of the MPO connector through injection molding, combining what would traditionally be separate components (connector housing, strength member, and protective elements) into a single manufactured part. This dramatically simplifies the fabrication process.
Solution Approach 2:
The design utilizes the injection molding process to create complex three-dimensional structures with precise geometries that would be difficult or expensive to fabricate using traditional methods. The molding parameters are optimized to create the required strength member geometry in a single step.
3Shape
If a compact splice protector design is used to maintain MPO connector aesthetics and functionality, then the connector appearance and performance are maintained, but the splice protection space is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The strength member utilizes the third dimension (depth) by extending into the connector body cavity, providing adequate splice protection volume without increasing the external footprint of the connector. The protective structure is positioned in the z-dimension rather than expanding x or y dimensions.
Solution Approach 2:
The strength member is nested within the MPO connector body, with the splice protection structure contained inside the connector housing. This nested arrangement provides full splice protection while maintaining the compact external dimensions and aesthetic appearance of the connector.
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 enhances mechanical robustness, reduces costs by minimizing custom components, and maintains the aesthetics and functionality of conventional MPO connectors while effectively protecting fusion splices within a compact and efficient design.
Implementation Method 1
a strength member featuring opposing walls connected along only one edge and unconnected wall extensions, allowing passage of multiple spliced optical fibers
Implementation Method 2
optimized for compact design and reduced heat shrink tubing length
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-fiber splice protector comprises a strength member including opposing first and second walls connected along only edge, and including unconnected opposing first and second wall extensions. The splice protector has a compact width that permits it to be incorporated with multiple fusion splice optical fibers in a multi-fiber push-on (MPO) type connector utilizing conventional MPO components. Protected splice joints may be provided between a multi-fiber ferrule and a boot of a connector, with at least a portion of a split jacket section of a fiber optic cable arranged within the boot. The jacket may have a split length of less than 25 mm and/or an entirety of the split jacket is within the boot. If provided, heat shrink tubing covering the split jacket may have a reduced length and/or may be confined within the boot.