Optical Connector Ferrule Holder Layout for Bending Loss Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Optical connectors experience connection loss due to bending stress applied to the ferrules when one connector is bent up, down, left, or right, which is exacerbated by an off-centered flange configuration that acts as a fulcrum for bending moments.
Innovation Solution
The optical connector design includes a ferrule holder with a flange part centered in the central region of the ferrule, an anti-rotation structure, and a housing made of high-stiffness resin to minimize bending moments and deformation, along with a split sleeve and gap configuration to protect the optical connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the flange part is positioned on the outer periphery of the holder main body, then the ferrule holder can accommodate the ferrule securely, but the moment on the ferrule increases due to bending stress causing misalignment
Solution Approach 1:
The flange part is positioned in the central region of the ferrule along the longitudinal direction, changing the spatial dimension of the flange position from the outer periphery to the center. This dimensional change reduces the moment arm length, thereby decreasing the bending moment on the ferrule while maintaining secure accommodation through the holder main body structure
2Device complexity
If the ferrule can rotate about its axis, then the ferrule holder structure can be simplified, but optical connection loss occurs due to rotation
Solution Approach 1:
The anti-rotation structure is built into the housing to preemptively prevent ferrule rotation before it can occur. The anti-rotation protrusion and groove engage in advance to constrain the ferrule's rotational degree of freedom, eliminating rotation-induced connection loss while maintaining structural simplicity
Data Source
AI summary
An optical connector includes a ferrule, a ferrule holder, a housing, and an anti-rotation structure. The ferrule includes a through hole that extends in a first direction and holds an optical fiber inside the through hole. The ferrule holder is disposed on the outer periphery of the ferrule and is fixed to the ferrule. The anti-rotation structure is provided inside the housing and outside the ferrule, and prevents rotation of the ferrule about an axis with the ferrule holder. The ferrule holder includes a tubular holder main body that accommodates the ferrule therein, and a flange part that protrudes outward from the outer periphery of the holder main body. The flange part includes a configuration to fit with the anti-rotation structure. A center of the flange part in the first direction is located in a central region of the ferrule in the first direction.