Optical Adaptor Mediator for Multi-Connector Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical coupling technologies face challenges in aligning and connecting optical fibers from different manufacturers or types, requiring precise alignment and specialized tools, which complicates the integration of connectorized optical cables into communication networks closer to subscribers.
Innovation Solution
An optical adaptor is designed to mount to a receptacle, providing a coupling element that aligns and optically couples optical fibers from different types of connectors, allowing for the use of an intermediate component to ensure compatibility and precise alignment, even when connectors are of different sizes or shapes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a receptacle is designed to couple specific types of optical connectors, then precise optical coupling is achieved, but adaptability to different connector types is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
An optical adaptor is introduced as an intermediary component between the receptacle and optical connectors of different types. The adaptor includes a coupling element with alignment features that can accommodate various connector types while maintaining precise optical coupling through its alignment elements and ferrule structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If optical connectors from different manufacturers or types are connected, then versatility is improved, but alignment precision and coupling efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The optical adaptor serves as a mediator that standardizes the interface between different connector types. Its coupling element incorporates alignment elements and a ferrule that provide consistent positioning and alignment, ensuring precise optical coupling regardless of the specific connector type being connected.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a new optical connector type is installed, then adaptability is improved, but the need for complete receptacle replacement increases complexity and cost
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into three independent components: the existing receptacle, the new optical adaptor, and the optical connector. This segmentation allows the adaptor to be inserted into the existing receptacle, providing compatibility with new connector types without requiring replacement of the entire receptacle assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical adaptor acts as an intermediary layer between the existing receptacle and new connector types, enabling the system to accommodate different connector standards while preserving the original receptacle infrastructure.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4A
Figure 4B~5A
AI summary
An optical adaptor (100) for mounting to a receptacle (200) to optically couple connectorized optical cables (1, 2) comprises a coupling element (110) to provide a passageway (111) for inserting a respective ferrule (11, 21) of a first and a second optical connector (10, 20) terminating a first and a second optical cable (1, 2). The optical adaptor (100) further comprises a mounting element (120) to mount the first optical connector (10) to the receptacle (200), the mounting element (120) being configured to be insertable in the receptacle (200), and a fixing element (130) to fix the mounting element (120) to the receptacle (200). The mounting element (120) is formed as a hollow body to receive the coupling element (110) and configured to fix the coupling element (110) to the receptacle (200).