Multi-Purpose Boot Assembly for High-Density Fiber Optic Connectors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fiber optic connectors in high-density data center applications face challenges in reducing size while maintaining ease of deployment, robustness, and modifiability, particularly in accommodating increased numbers of optical connections within the same footprint without compromising quality of service or introducing latent defects.
Innovation Solution
The development of ultra-small form factor micro optical connectors with a multi-purpose push-pull and rotatable boot assembly allows for polarity change and remote release mechanisms, enabling efficient handling and connection of multiple optical fibers in dense arrays without damaging surrounding components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If the connector size is reduced to increase density, then the number of connections per footprint increases, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to obstructed access to release mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
A tool interface is introduced as an intermediary between the operator and the release mechanism. The tool engages with a specifically designed interface on the connector housing to activate the release mechanism, bypassing the need for direct manual access that is obstructed in high-density configurations
Solution Approach 2:
The manual thumb-and-finger operation is replaced with a tool-based mechanical system. The tool provides leveraged mechanical advantage to actuate the release mechanism, substituting the direct manual mechanical action with an indirect tool-mediated mechanical action
2Quantity of substance
If the spacing between connectors is reduced to increase density, then more connectors fit in the same area, but the reliability deteriorates due to increased stress on cables and connectors
Solution Approach 1:
The release mechanism activation function is extracted from the cable assembly and relocated to the connector housing. This allows the release to be actuated independently of cable manipulation, separating the connection release function from cable stress
Solution Approach 2:
The tool interface acts as an intermediary that enables release mechanism activation without requiring physical manipulation of adjacent cables. The tool provides a clear access path through the connector housing to the release mechanism, bypassing the obstructing cables
3Area of stationary object
If the connector size is reduced, then the footprint decreases, but the ease of manufacture deteriorates due to increased complexity of miniaturization
Solution Approach 1:
The boot assembly is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides strain relief, acts as a seal, and serves as the interface for tool-based release mechanism activation. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, simplifying manufacturing despite the compact size
Solution Approach 2:
The boot and housing are merged into an integrated assembly where the boot is received by the housing with built-in alignment and retention features. This merging eliminates separate assembly steps and reduces manufacturing complexity while maintaining the compact footprint
Data Source
AI summary
An optical connector holding two or more LC-type optical ferrules is provided. The optical connector includes an outer body, an inner front body accommodating the two or more LC-type optical ferrules, ferrule springs for urging the optical ferrules towards a mating connection, and a back body for supporting the ferrule springs. A removable inner front body for polarity change is disclosed. A multi-purpose rotatable boot assembly for polarity change is disclosed. The multi-purpose boot assembly can be pushed and pulled to insert and remove the micro connector from an adapter receptacle.