Multi-Core Fiber Connector for Rotational Core Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-core optical fiber (MCF) connectors face challenges in correcting erroneous connections due to fusion splicing errors, where cores with different core numbers are inadvertently connected.
Innovation Solution
A connector design that allows for the insertion of a multi-core optical fiber plug in multiple orientations relative to another plug, including 0, 90, 180, and 270 degrees, using adapters with specific guide grooves and elastic locking claws to ensure correct core alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional connector with fixed orientation is used, then the connection structure is simple, but erroneous connections cannot be corrected when core numbers are mismatched
Solution Approach 1:
The connector enables dynamic reconfiguration by allowing the plug to be inserted in multiple orientations (0, 90, 180, 270 degrees). The elastic locking claw is designed to engage with different positions on the grip, enabling the user to rotate and re-insert the plug to achieve correct core alignment when connection errors occur.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector provides multiple guide grooves (first, second, third, and fourth guide grooves) that are pre-configured at different orientations. This preliminary arrangement of multiple insertion paths allows the user to directly insert the plug in the correct orientation from the beginning or to correct errors by trying different orientations without modifying the connector structure.
2Reliability
If fusion splicing is used to connect MCFs, then connection reliability is high, but the process is complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces the complex fusion splicing process with a simple mechanical connector system. The elastic locking claw mechanically secures the plug in place through engagement with the grip, providing a reliable connection without requiring thermal fusion processes. This mechanical substitution achieves both high reliability and fast connection speed.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the plug can be inserted in multiple orientations, then erroneous connections can be corrected, but the guide groove configuration becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The grip is designed with asymmetric features including a guide key and positioning structures that work with the multiple guide grooves. The elastic locking claw engages with asymmetric positions on the grip, allowing differentiation between the four insertion orientations (0, 90, 180, 270 degrees). This asymmetric design enables the complex multi-orientation functionality while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector that connects a first multi-core optical fiber to which a first plug is provided and a second multi-core optical fiber to which a second plug is provided to one another, includes: a first jack for inserting the first plug; and a second jack for inserting the second plug, wherein the first jack is configured so that the first plug in a first state and the first plug in a second state can at least be inserted thereinto, and the first plug in the second state is obtained by rotating the first plug in the first state by 180 degrees about an insertion direction as the axis of rotation, the insertion direction being the direction in which the first plug is inserted into the first jack.