Multi-Fiber Connector Layout for Splice-On and Direct Termination
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
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 handle both types effectively.
Innovation Solution
A multi-fiber connector design that allows for both direct termination and splice-on 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 ferrule, along with a cover and spring-biased mechanism for alignment and protection.
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 of optical fibers
Solution Approach 1:
The connector body is designed with a universal ferrule receiving structure that can accommodate both spliced pigtails and directly terminated optical fibers. The ferrule holder and retaining structure provide a common interface for different termination types, allowing the same connector to perform multiple functions without requiring separate designs for splice-on and direct termination configurations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a fiber optic connector is designed for direct termination configuration, then it can accommodate directly terminated optical fibers, but it cannot accommodate splice-on configurations with pigtails
Solution Approach 1:
The ferrule holder design with its open structure and retaining mechanism creates a universal mounting interface that works for both direct termination and splice-on configurations. The connector body provides a common receptacle that accepts the ferrule regardless of whether the optical fibers are directly terminated or have pre-installed pigtails, eliminating the need for separate connector designs.
3Ease of operation
If a connector body uses a front opening for ferrule insertion, then the ferrule can be easily inserted, but the connector cannot provide environmental sealing for harsh environments
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of inserting the ferrule through the front opening, the design inserts the ferrule through the rear opening of the connector body. This inversion allows the front opening to be sealed with an end cap, providing environmental protection while still enabling easy ferrule insertion through the rear. The retaining structure ensures the ferrule is properly positioned and secured after insertion.
Solution Approach 2:
The rear opening serves as an intermediary access point that allows ferrule insertion without compromising the front sealing structure. The end cap seals the front opening to provide environmental protection, while the rear opening provides a separate access path for ferrule installation, mediating between the need for sealing and the need for ease of operation.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If a connector body uses a rear opening for ferrule insertion, then environmental sealing can be maintained, but the ferrule insertion process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The design inverts the traditional insertion approach by providing the opening at the rear rather than the front. This allows the front to be fully sealed with an end cap for environmental protection, while the rear opening provides straightforward access for ferrule insertion. The retaining structure simplifies the insertion process by guiding and securing the ferrule in place.
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
Enables efficient and robust connection of optical fibers in harsh environments, accommodating various termination methods while maintaining alignment and environmental sealing.
Implementation Method 1
A spring is used to bias the ferrule assembly in a distal direction relative to the connector housing
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.