Multi-Fiber Connector Structure for Sealed Splice or Direct Termination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fiber optic connectors struggle to accommodate both splice-on and direct termination configurations, and there is a need for a hardened connector that can adapt to various installation methods in outdoor environments.
Innovation Solution
A multi-fiber connector design that allows for both spliced-on and direct termination configurations, featuring a ferrule that can be mounted directly to optical fibers or pre-installed with pigtails, and a connector body with a side opening for lateral insertion of the multi-fiber ferrule, ensuring environmental sealing and robustness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fiber optic connector is designed for splice-on configuration, then it can accommodate pre-installed pigtails, but it cannot accommodate direct termination configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The connector body is designed with a universal structure that can accommodate both splice-on configurations (with pre-installed pigtails) and direct termination configurations (without pigtails). The ferrule assembly and alignment features are configured to work with both types of fiber terminations, allowing a single connector design to perform multiple functions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a fiber optic connector is designed for direct termination configuration, then it simplifies the installation process, but it cannot accommodate splice-on configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The connector incorporates universal mounting features and ferrule alignment mechanisms that support both direct termination and splice-on installation methods. The design allows installers to choose the most appropriate method for each application while using the same connector hardware.
3Strength
If a ruggedized connector construction is used to accommodate pull-out forces, then mechanical strength is improved, but environmental sealing becomes more difficult to maintain
Solution Approach 1:
The connector employs a nested structure where the ferrule assembly is housed within the connector body, and sealing elements are integrated within the nested components. This nested design allows the sealing elements to be positioned at multiple interfaces, providing effective moisture barriers while maintaining the ruggedized structure needed to withstand pull-out forces.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector uses flexible sealing elements such as O-rings and gaskets that can deform to accommodate the ruggedized construction and mechanical stresses while maintaining environmental seals. These flexible membranes provide moisture protection even when the connector is subjected to high pull-out forces.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If a sealed connector design is used to limit moisture intrusion, then environmental protection is improved, but installation and maintenance access becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is pre-assembled with sealing elements and ferrule components in a controlled manufacturing environment, ensuring proper sealing before deployment. This preliminary assembly allows the connector to be installed as a complete sealed unit, maintaining environmental protection while simplifying field installation.
Data Source
AI summary
A fiber optic cable assembly includes a fiber optic cable and a fiber optic connector. The cable includes a jacket having an elongated transverse cross-sectional profile that defines a major axis and a minor axis. Strength components of the cable are anchored to the connector. The fiber optic connector includes a ferrule defining a major axis that is generally perpendicular to the major axis of the jacket and a minor axis that is generally perpendicular to the minor axis of the jacket. Certain types of connectors include a connector body defining a side opening that extends along a length of the connector body; a ferrule configured for lateral insertion into the connector body through the side opening; and a cover that mounts over the side opening after the ferrule has been inserted into the connector body through the side opening.