Optical Connector Integrating Ferrules and Elastic Member
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical connector systems for connecting optical fiber cables require complex structures and high manufacturing costs due to the need for a pair of optical connectors and a relay adapter, which complicates size reduction and cost minimization.
Innovation Solution
The optical connector design eliminates the need for a relay adapter by using a positioning member, connection retaining members with slits, and an elastic member to align and press ferrules against each other, simplifying the structure and reducing size and cost.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a pair of optical connectors and a relay adapter are used to connect optical fiber cables, then reliable optical signal transmission is achieved, but the device complexity and size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of optical connectors and relay adapter into a single integrated unit. The housing contains both ferrules (first and second ferrules) that can be pressed against each other, eliminating the need for separate relay adapter. This integration maintains reliable optical signal transmission while reducing device complexity and size.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing serves multiple functions simultaneously: it contains the ferrules, provides positioning through the positioning member, applies pressing force through the elastic member, and enables connection to optical fiber cables. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, thereby reducing overall device complexity.
2Reliability
If a pair of optical connectors and a relay adapter are used to connect optical fiber cables, then reliable optical signal transmission is achieved, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By combining multiple components (optical connectors and relay adapter) into a single housing structure, the patent reduces the total number of parts that need to be manufactured, assembled, and quality-checked. This integration generally lowers manufacturing costs while maintaining the reliable optical signal transmission function.
3Manufacturing precision
If a relay adapter with independent housing is used to position ferrules, then accurate alignment is achieved, but the device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning member and elastic member are integrated within the same housing that contains the ferrules, eliminating the need for a separate relay adapter housing. This integration maintains accurate ferrule alignment through the positioning member while significantly reducing the overall device volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning member and elastic member are nested within the housing structure, with the positioning member positioned to align ferrules and the elastic member positioned to apply pressing force. This nested arrangement achieves precise alignment and functional integration within a compact volume.
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 allows for efficient optical signal transmission between optical fibers while simplifying the connector structure, reducing size and manufacturing costs, and facilitating easy assembly and maintenance.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic member that generates a force with which the front end portion of the first ferrule and the front end portion of the second ferrule press against each other
Data Source
AI summary
An optical connector includes a sleeve that positions a front end portion of a first ferrule and a front end portion of a second ferrule so as to face each other on the same axis, a first connection retaining member and a second connection retaining member that maintain a state in which the front end portions of the first and second ferrules contact each other and press against each other, and a coil spring that generates a force with which the front end portions of the first and second ferrules press against each other. Optical fiber cables can be connected to each other by containing the first ferrule and the second ferrule, which are attached to the sleeve, respectively in the first connection retaining member and the second connection retaining member and by coupling the first connection retaining member and the second connection retaining member to each other.