Optical Connector Ferrule Floating via Elastic Plug Frame
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing optical connector structures, such as those using the Oldham coupling mechanism, are complex and costly due to the increased number of components, making it difficult to maintain an optical connection state under external forces.
Innovation Solution
An optical connector design featuring a ferrule with a flange and a plug frame, where an elastic member biases the ferrule along its central axis, utilizing tapered surfaces to restrict pivotal movement at one position and allow floating at another, reducing component count and simplifying the structure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the Oldham coupling mechanism is used to float the ferrule with respect to the plug frame, then the optical connection state is maintained under external forces, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase due to the increased number of components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the floating mechanism and positioning function into a single integrated structure. The plug frame directly provides the floating mechanism through its elastic deformation capability, eliminating the need for separate Oldham coupling components. The tapered surfaces on the plug frame and ferrule work together to provide both positioning and floating functions, reducing the total component count while maintaining optical connection reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The plug frame is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides structural support, enables floating through elastic deformation, and maintains positioning through tapered surfaces. The ferrule also serves dual purposes by having both optical transmission and positioning functions integrated through its tapered surfaces. This multi-functionality reduces the need for dedicated components for each function.
2Reliability
If the Oldham coupling mechanism is used to float the ferrule, then external force transmission is prevented, but the manufacturing cost increases due to component complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the force isolation mechanism into the basic plug frame structure itself. The elastic material of the plug frame provides the force isolation through its inherent deformation capability, eliminating the need for complex Oldham coupling components that would increase manufacturing cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the material parameter of the plug frame to an elastic material that can deform under external forces. This parameter change enables the plug frame to absorb and isolate external forces through elastic deformation, providing force isolation without requiring additional complex components.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the ferrule is positioned in contact with the plug frame, then pivotal movement is restricted, but external forces are transmitted to the ferrule
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic capability to the positioning system. The plug frame can dynamically adjust its state between contact (for positioning) and non-contact (for force isolation) through elastic deformation. The tapered surfaces enable this dynamic transition, allowing the system to adapt to different operational requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the interaction between plug frame and ferrule into distinct functional zones. The tapered surfaces provide localized contact points that restrict pivotal movement, while the elastic body of the plug frame provides overall force isolation. This segmentation allows different parts of the structure to perform different functions simultaneously.
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
This design maintains the optical connection state by preventing external force transmission to the ferrule, reducing component complexity and manufacturing costs while ensuring reliable positioning and reduced connection loss.
Implementation Method 1
An elastic member biases the ferrule in a central axis direction of the ferrule. The elastic member holds the ferrule in a first position in the plug frame when the elastic member has a first length of the elastic member, and holds the ferrule in a second position in the plug frame when the elastic member has a second length shorter than the first length
Data Source
AI summary
This optical connector includes a ferrule, a plug frame, and an elastic member. The ferrule holds a glass fiber of an optical fiber. The plug frame receives the ferrule. The elastic member holds, with a first length, the ferrule in a first position in the plug frame, or holds, with a second length shorter than the first length, the ferrule in a second position in the plug frame. When the ferrule is in the first position, the ferrule and the plug frame are in contact with each other via the tapered surface, and the pivotal movement of the ferrule to the plug frame is restricted. When the ferrule is in the second position, the ferrule is not in contact with the plug frame and is pivotable to the plug frame, and the ferrule is in a floating state.